Severin Borenstein

Severin Borenstein, an economist, discusses rooftop solar's high cost impact, shifting burdens to non-solar users in California. They debate electricity bill fairness, cost structures, and potential government interventions. Topics include income-graduated charges, fair billing, and societal implications. Also covered are system cost allocation, historical rate evolution, and the necessity for updated billing models aligned with current trends.

Severin Borenstein, an economist and director at UC Berkeley's Energy Institute, delves into the high costs of rooftop solar in America and its impact on low- and middle-income Californians. He reveals how net metering shifts nearly $4 billion onto non-solar households, challenging the fairness of electricity pricing. The discussion also touches on equity issues related to electrification, the historical shift in energy pricing, and the potential benefits of public ownership in utilities. It's a deep dive into the complex landscape of energy economics.

Shelley Welton, a law professor and energy policy expert, breaks down how electricity bills are structured, highlighting the confusion around charges and the influence of utilities on rates. Severin Borenstein, an economist, discusses the rising electric rates in California and the challenges posed by climate impacts. Kevin Miller shares insights on Maine's push for a nonprofit utility, Pine Tree Power, and the complexities that led to its referendum failure. Together, they explore the financial pressures on consumers and the future of energy affordability.