How PG&E takes $620 million out of your pockets ...

What San Franciscans paid PG&E in 1999

$433 million1

What San Franciscans paid PG&E in 2001

$557 million2

Increase in payment

$124 million

Negative impact on local economy

$620 million3

... and how public power would give $550 million back

What San Francisco spent on power in 2001

$557 million4

Amount San Franciscans would spent after 20 percent rate cut

$445.6 million

Savings to local consumers and businesses

$111.4 million5

Positive impact on local economy

$557 million

This chart shows how PG&E's high rates have ripped $620 million out of the San Francisco economy – and how public power would provide a huge economic boost. The figures are based on a methodology developed by Professor Irwin Kellner, an economist at Hofstra University. Kellner argues that, since electricity is a basic necessity, every dollar saved by consumers on electric rates rebounds through the economy five times (see story).

1 Source: San Francisco Controller's Office

2 Source: San Francisco Controller's Office

3 Based on a multiplier of five (see story)

4 Source: San Francisco Controller's Office

5 Based on a multiplier of five (see story)