Pasadena Considers Electric Rate Restructuring as Public Comment Period Opens

Electric bill (Photo – coned.com)

Residents in Pasadena have the opportunity to weigh in on proposed changes to their electricity bills as Pasadena Water and Power (PWP) moves forward with a plan to restructure its electric rates.

By News Desk

The proposal was presented to the Pasadena City Council during a meeting on Monday, March 2, following nearly two years of rate analysis and community engagement. The city has opened a public comment period before officials make a final decision later this month.

City leaders are expected to close the public hearing and consider the rate proposal at the council’s March 23 meeting.

Why the Change Is Proposed

According to PWP officials, the proposed adjustment is intended to help maintain and modernize the city’s aging electrical infrastructure. Rising costs for equipment and upgrades have made changes necessary to ensure the long-term reliability of the local power grid.

PWP General Manager David Reyes said the adjustment is part of a broader effort to keep the system dependable.

He noted that updating and maintaining critical infrastructure requires new funding as equipment costs continue to rise.

What It Could Mean for Customers

Unlike a uniform increase across all bills, the proposal restructures rates based on electricity usage. PWP estimates that the systemwide average increase would be about 7%, but the actual impact would vary by household.

City officials say the majority of customers would see minimal changes. Approximately 63,000 customers are expected to experience either a bill decrease or an increase of less than $10 per month, depending on how much electricity they use.

Rates Compared to Neighboring Utilities

If approved, Pasadena’s residential electric rates could remain among the lowest in the region. Based on estimates for February 2026, a household using 500 kilowatt-hours per month would pay less through PWP than through neighboring utilities such as the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, Southern California Edison, Glendale Water and Power, and Burbank Water and Power.

Possible Timeline

If the city council approves the proposal, the first adjustment could take effect in April 2026. Two additional 7% system average increases are also proposed for October 2026 and March 2027.

Public Input Encouraged

Residents can submit comments online through the city clerk’s public comment portal, call the City Clerk’s Office, or send written correspondence to City Hall.

PWP is also encouraging customers to review the potential impact on their bills using an online estimator and to explore income-qualified assistance programs that provide monthly bill credits to eligible residents.

The upcoming council decision could shape how Pasadena funds and maintains its power system for years to come, making the next few weeks an important window for community input.