The state of California is charging residents $30,000 to run gas lines to their homesBut it gets worse, for fire rebuilds in places like Pacific Palisades SoCalGas is quoting $53,000 for gas reconnectionThis is because the California Public Utilities Commission is pushing toward building electrification and strict utility regulations, they don’t want you to use gasFor extensions property owners often pay to run new pipe under their streets and driveways. After permits costs frequently exceed $20

California could pass a massive new law to take on corporate monopolies.The biggest state in country, full of huge businesses like Apple and Meta, currently has weaker anti-monopoly laws than most states.But the Compete Act would change that — if politicians pass it and don’t give in to oligarchs who want to shut it down.

The Stratos Project will produce power on site with the burning of natural gas sourced from the Ruby Pipeline. It will increase utility prices for Northern California customers of PG&E. Maybe California should unlock its energy production in anticipation of projects like this. Or maybe just blame Big Oil for price gouging when the time comes.