The IOU Code of Conduct requires the investor-owned utilities (IOUs) to be neutral about Community Choice. The Code spells out how this neutrality must be maintained, especially regarding the use of rate-payer funds. In early 2018, however, the IOUs filed a “Petition to Modify” the Code, to remove all restrictions against lobbying with rate-payer funds. This paper explains the Code’s background, the IOUs’ track record of compliance, and the CPUC’s history of enforcement. We argue that the Code of Conduct should not be gutted but maintained, enforced and strengthened.
Our Position on the IOU Code of Conduct (October 2018)