During a recent government meeting in Utah, significant discussions unfolded regarding the ongoing Phase III Hearing on the DAO Docket Issues related to RMP's Rate Case. The focus was primarily on the rising costs of excess liability insurance premiums for utility companies, particularly Pacific Corp, which reported an alarming 1,888% increase over the past five years.

Testimony from various witnesses highlighted the stark contrast between Pacific Corp's growth rate and those of other utilities. For instance, Southern California Edison and San Diego Gas & Electric reported growth rates of 78.6% and 73%, respectively, while Avista and Idaho Power had growth rates of only 10%. This disparity raised questions about the validity of comparisons made between Pacific Corp and other utilities exposed to wildfire risks.

Witnesses debated the implications of these figures, with some arguing that the differences in growth rates were not merely statistical but indicative of deeper issues within Pacific Corp's operational and insurance strategies. The testimony suggested that while other utilities faced their own challenges, the scale of Pacific Corp's increases was unprecedented and not directly comparable to its peers.

The discussions also touched on the broader context of wildfire liabilities, with references to the extensive loss history of Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E), which has faced significant financial repercussions due to wildfire claims. This comparison underscored the unique challenges Pacific Corp faces, as its wildfire liability history is not as extensive as PG&E's, yet it still grapples with substantial insurance cost increases.

As the hearing progressed, the focus shifted to the need for evidence supporting claims that other utilities were experiencing similar premium increases. Witnesses were challenged to provide concrete data to substantiate their assertions, with some admitting that they had not produced sufficient evidence to support their claims.

The meeting concluded with a call for further examination of the insurance report and the specific loss histories associated with recent wildfires, including the Archie Creek and Slater fires. As the proceedings continue, stakeholders are keenly aware of the implications these discussions hold for utility rates and the financial stability of companies operating in wildfire-prone areas. The outcomes of this hearing could significantly impact how utilities manage their insurance costs and respond to the growing threat of wildfires in the region.