SAN DIEGO, Dec. 30, 2005 (PRIMEZONE) -- San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) today announced its customers will receive approximately $31.8 million from Mirant Corp. for overcharges during the Western U.S. energy crisis of 2000-01.
SDG&E earlier this year had received a partial cash settlement of approximately $21.4 million from Mirant, while awaiting the results of its bankruptcy proceeding for an increased settlement. The additional refund amount of approximately $10.4 million, which was more than expected, will go into an account earmarked for customers.
During the energy crisis of 2000-01, San Diegans were the first to feel the brunt of increased electricity costs. Several investigations at the state and federal level have led to a series of refunds to California customers.
SDG&E was the first to file a complaint with the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission in 2000, claiming that rates were unreasonable during the energy crisis. Since then, SDG&E has aggressively sought refunds from several energy providers, helping to secure settlements totaling more than $150 million.
SDG&E is a regulated public utility that provides safe and reliable energy service to 3.3 million consumers through 1.3 million electric meters and more than 800,000 natural gas meters in San Diego and southern Orange counties. The utility's area spans 4,100 square miles. Exceptional customer service is a priority of SDG&E as it seeks to enhance the region's quality of life. SDG&E is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE:SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company. To learn more, go to www.sdge.com.