COLUSA, CA (MPG) — The Colusa City Council voted unanimously Nov. 4 to file for membership in Pioneer Community Energy, moving the city toward potential rate relief for residents and businesses while preserving local choice.
The action authorizes a formal application to the not-for-profit Community Choice Aggregator and Joint Powers Authority. Pioneer buys electricity on the open market as an alternative to PG&E for the generation portion of the bill. Communications Director Gina Stassi-Vanacore and Community Outreach Manager Lisa Rhoads briefed the council on costs, enrollment and customer protections, citing an independent analysis that found expansion “positive” and financially sound for all parties.
Pioneer reports more than $108 million in cumulative savings for its customers since launch. The agency projects average savings of about 10 percent this year for existing Pioneer customers.
“The real benefit is to try to lower rates for citizens,” City Attorney Ryan Jones said.
Timing drove the vote.
Pioneer plans to submit its implementation plan to the California Public Utilities Commission in December to stay on track for an October 2027 launch. Stassi-Vanacore told the council Tuesday’s approval does not lock the city in.
“We are not asking for a final, final decision to join Pioneer tonight. We still have several months before that is needed,” she said, noting a CPUC review period will run about 90 days. The city expects to make its final decision in the spring.
Council questions focused on how enrollment would work, protections for solar customers and access to discounted programs.
Rhoads said customers will be automatically enrolled at launch, with a simple opt-out available by phone or online that takes about 30 seconds. After the initial 60-day window, those who opt out must wait one year to return. No opt-out fees were identified during the meeting.
Solar customers who produce a net surplus will receive a credit one-half cent higher than PG&E, according to Pioneer. The estimate of 43,000 solar customers referenced during the discussion reflects Pioneer’s current service area, not Colusa. City staff also confirmed that income-qualified customers will retain CARE and FERA discounts, and Pioneer offers its own assistance programs.
Customers will still receive a consolidated bill from PG&E; however, it will show Pioneer Community Energy as the provider for the electricity generation portion.
“PG&E will still send your monthly bill, they will still handle payments, shut-offs, and activations,” said Rhoads. “The bill will include Pioneer Community Energy as the provider for the electricity generation portion. PG&E still owns, and maintains the equipment and lines.”
Membership would give Colusa a voting seat on Pioneer’s board, adding a local voice to power procurement and rate decisions. The city has not yet designated a representative. If Colusa proceeds, Pioneer plans an 18-month public information push to explain enrollment, options and deadlines. Pioneer would most likely lead that outreach.
Colusa’s step comes as other jurisdictions weigh the same move. The Colusa County Board of Supervisors heard a presentation but took no action. The City of Williams will receive a presentation at a later date.