Wildfires

WhatMatters

Newsom vows to step in if PG&E cannot restructure itself, as Trump trolls California over fires

Newsom summons PG&E leaders to Sacramento. New energy 'czar' is a familiar face. Lobbyists increase spending to shape policy in Sacramento.

By Dan Morain • November 4, 2019

WhatMatters

Gavin Newsom and PG&E + Trump and carmakers + Katie Hill’s goodbye

Anger toward PG&E runs deep. Can microgrids help solve state's power woes? Trump administration pressured carmakers to take his side in emissions fight.

By Dan Morain • November 1, 2019

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 a state under siege can do + Trump thanks Toyota and GM for taking his side in his clean air fight against California

California searches for solutions to wildfire crisis. Trump praises automakers for siding with him. Birth rate falling in every county.

By Dan Morain • October 31, 2019

WhatMatters

Uber, Lyft, DoorDash begin their campaign but leave room for negotiations

Gig companies begin campaign to reverse employee law. NCAA follows California's lead on athlete compensation. Kamala Harris' California primary dream fades.

By Dan Morain and Judy Lin • October 30, 2019

WhatMatters

GM, Toyota, Chrysler side with Trump in clean air fight against California

GM, Toyota join forces with Trump in emissions fight. Desalination proposal draws backlash in Monterey County. Race is on to fill Katie Hill's seat.

By Dan Morain • October 29, 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

California Wildfires

Is it fair to blast PG&E for not managing blackouts like SDG&E?

As Pacific Gas & Electric cuts power to thousands to avoid igniting wildfires, policymakers are comparing it unfavorably with San Diego Gas & Electric, a veteran of preemptive blackouts. Local critics say California shouldn't be so quick to put SDG&E on a pedestal. 

By Claire Trageser, KPBS • October 23, 2019

WhatMatters

Achievement gap persists as test scores rise, one pesticide gets banned and one doesn’t

Achievement gap persists in California schools. A widely used pesticide is banned, while another remains. Camp Fire cleanup nears completion.

By Dan Morain and Judy Lin • October 10, 2019