Pacific Gas and Electric Company is asking for a rate increase and you have the chance to make your feelings known at two California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) public forums.

The forums, also called Public Participation Hearings, will be held on August 13th at 1 p.m. and 6 p.m.

PG&E is proposing the rate increase to "meet precautionary measures to further reduce wildfire risks, including taking additional steps to harden infrastructure and increase vegetation management."

To achieve those goals, "PG&E submitted an application requesting CPUC approval to increase its gas, electric distribution, and electric generation revenues by $1.058 billion (or 12.4 percent) in 2020 over current revenues; by $454 million (or 4.7 percent) in 2021; and by $486 million (or 4.8 percent) in 2022."

If approved, it will lead to an increase of 6.4% (or $10.57 per month) for "typical" residential customers.

If you are unable to attend either of the hearings, written comments may be submitted to: CPUC Public Advisor, 505 Van Ness Ave., San Francisco, CA 94102, or via email to public.advisor@cpuc.ca.gov and refer to proceeding number A.18-12-009.

For additional information pertaining to these hearings, you can check out the ruling that set the public forum.