Some Downplay Utilities' Broadband Role, in CPUC Comments
Let electric utilities focus on wildfire efforts, said some comments posted Tuesday. The California Public Utilities Commission is considering pilot projects by investor-owned utilities (IOUs) in unserved areas as part of its broadband rulemaking in docket R.20-09-001. Because it's critical…
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IOUs "safeguard infrastructure from igniting catastrophic wildfires, the Commission should not overburden electrical utilities and slow that urgent work,” commented Rural County Representatives of California. The Utility Reform Network agreed: “The CPUC should not require the IOUs to undertake work to expand broadband infrastructure that would divert resources from utility wildfire risk mitigation or service restoration.” Charter Communications wants to ensure there isn’t any overbuilding. Southern California Edison’s proposal for Ventura County is in Charter territory, Charter said. Focus on supporting ISPs deploying broadband, suggested AT&T. Utilities appear reluctant about helping, so don't rely on their "substantial participation,” said Center for Accessible Technology.