Blackouts

Environment

Five things to know about microgrids

It may be satisfying for frustrated utility customers to declare they are going to "cut the cord." But the reality isn't so simple.

By Julie Cart • November 1, 2019

California Wildfires

Comforting California, Newsom bashes a familiar villain — PG&E

Gov. Gavin Newsom’s lambasting of PG&E as California reels from wildfires and mass blackouts reflects his roots in San Francisco — and a public perception that’s built up over the last half century. 

By Laurel Rosenhall • October 31, 2019

WhatMatters

What cities are in fiscal distress, a nonprofit faces allegations of gang infiltration, and black market vapes

Dashboard lists cities in fiscal distress. Report says Salinas nonprofit has been infiltrated by a gang. Toy district turns into black market for vaping.

By Dan Morain • October 25, 2019

WhatMatters

Fire weather, power shutoffs, and fighting fire with technology

Santa Ana winds bring power shutdowns. State uses technology as new front in wildfires battle. Trump sues state over climate change program.

By Dan Morain • October 24, 2019

WhatMatters

Gavin Newsom takes aim at PG&E, while the GOP barks at Newsom over road money

Newsom, CPUC take aim at PG&E. GOP accuses Newsom of bait and switch on gas tax spending. Governor vetoes beverage industry recycling bill.

By Dan Morain and Ben Christopher • October 15, 2019

Environment

What to know as California’s peak fire months loom

The state's forests are clogged with 147 million dead trees — wildfire fuel — and late-winter rains nourished grasses and other highly combustible plants.

By Julie Cart • August 29, 2019