The Little Hoover Commission held a hearing on July 24, 2025, focusing on California's electricity costs, with significant discussions surrounding energy efficiency (EE) programs and their impact on affordability and environmental sustainability. Representatives from various Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs), including San Diego Community Power and Silicon Valley Clean Energy, emphasized the importance of EE initiatives in helping residents manage their energy bills without compromising their quality of life.

The meeting highlighted that California's EE programs have historically provided substantial benefits, particularly for disadvantaged communities facing affordability challenges. These programs not only help reduce household energy usage but also contribute to long-term savings that insulate consumers from rising energy rates. For instance, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) reported that EE initiatives allowed the state to avoid using 11,000 gigawatt hours of energy in 2023, equivalent to nearly 60% of the annual output from the Diablo Canyon nuclear power plant. This reduction not only saves consumers money but also prevents the emission of approximately 11 million tons of carbon dioxide.

Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of these programs was underscored, with findings indicating that for every dollar invested in EE, there are $8 in system benefits. This impressive return on investment is validated through rigorous audits and scrutiny by the CPUC and independent third-party firms, ensuring that these programs are held to high standards of accountability.

In conclusion, the discussions at the hearing reinforced the critical role of energy efficiency in California's energy landscape, highlighting its dual benefits of enhancing affordability for consumers while supporting environmental goals. As the state continues to navigate its energy challenges, the emphasis on EE programs may play a pivotal role in shaping a more sustainable and economically viable future for all Californians.