Public workshops on proposed rate action to increase reliability, safety and renewable energy benefits for everyone
Sacramento, Calif. – The SMUD Board of Directors is holding two public workshops and a public hearing to discuss proposed rate changes.
The Chief Executive Officer & General Manager’s Reports and Recommendation on Rates and Services, released by SMUD CEO & General Manager Paul Lau, outlines a proposed rate increase of 3 percent on January 1, 2026, and another 3 percent increase on January 1, 2027. The proposed changes also include an optional Time-of-Day (Low use) Rate, updates to transmission rates and other miscellaneous changes.
Reasons cited
While SMUD works hard to control costs and operate efficiently, the need for a modest rate increase is attributed to several factors including wildfire prevention and mitigation, new generation projects, higher commodity costs for California clean energy compliance, infrastructure investment to maintain a reliable grid, the Folsom Administrative Operations Building, and increased operating costs due to inflation.
SMUD is committed to keeping rate increases within inflation, and if the proposed changes are approved, SMUD’s rates would remain among the lowest rates in the state – currently on average more than 50 percent lower than neighboring PG&E’s rates.
Detailed information on the proposed rate action and a complete copy of the Chief Executive Officer & General Manager’s Report and Recommendation on Rates and Services can be found on smud.org/RateInfo. Also posted below.
SMUD will work closely with customers and other stakeholders – including community groups, service organizations, business groups, elected officials and more – to discuss these changes.
Public Hearing & Workshops
In addition, two public workshops and a public hearing will be held for customers to learn more about the process and comment on the proposed changes. Meetings will be held in-person at SMUD’s Headquarters building and virtually via Zoom.
Public Workshop
Wednesday, April 30 at 5:30 p.m.
Public Workshop
Tuesday, May 13 at 10 a.m.
Public Hearing
Wednesday, June 4 at 6 p.m.
Accommodations
Accommodations are available for disabled individuals. If you need a hearing assistance device or other aid, or have questions about the proposal, please visit smud.org/RateInfo or call SMUD at 855-736-7655. Written comments can be emailed to [email protected] or mailed to SMUD, P.O. Box 15830, B256, Sacramento, CA 95852-0830.
