December 10, 2001—About two-thirds of California businesses polled say that they have a “generally negative” feeling about deregulation in the state and more than 80 percent cite the cost of energy as a top concern, according to a recent survey conducted statewide.
The survey also revealed that more than three-quarters of businesses polled are displeased with the suspension of direct access Sept. 20 by the California Public Utilities Commission. Under California’s original electric deregulation plan, a direct-access provision allowed business and residential customers to purchase electricity from alternative energy service providers outside of their local utility, typically at a lower price.
In the wake of the suspension of direct access, 77 percent of businesses polled say energy efficiency now is “very important” to them and many are actively seeking out companies to develop potential energy-saving opportunities in diverse building types and locations. In addition, they are seeking help from energy service providers to implement strategies that will allow them to capitalize on cost-control measures, energy-pricing opportunities and reduced market risk.
Market Strategies, a Detroit-based marketing research firm, conducted the survey Oct. 29-31, 2001, polling energy management professionals from the manufacturing, transportation, retail, public administration, education and healthcare industries. Commissioned by Sempra Energy Solutions, a retail energy services company that markets to commercial and industrial customers nationwide, the survey focused on businesses throughout the state with an annual electric bill of about $500,000.
