Topic: Electricity Rates

California utility companies including SDG&E and PG&E are proposing a fundamental change to electricity pricing based on a state equity law. The plan introduces a fixed monthly delivery rate scaled by household income, where high earners making over $180,000 would pay significantly more than lower-income households. Critics argue the law may face legal challenges in court before full implementation.

The discussion turns to the German "Energiewende" energy transition, noting that the country is returning to coal power due to the high costs of renewables. Thom Hartmann's praise for German solar adoption is countered with data showing German electricity rates are significantly higher than those in the United States. The hosts argue that wind and solar are only viable through massive government subsidies.

The hosts analyze NBC's decision to move the Jay Leno Show to the 10:00 PM slot, which has led to a boycott by actors and directors who lost work in scripted dramas. They discuss the financial implications for NBC Universal and General Electric, noting that the network is cutting costs by reducing high-budget drama production.