On November 19th, Silicon Valley Power (SVP) will bring forth for consideration by City Council a three percent rate increase for SVP customers starting January 2020. Funds will be used to complete necessary maintenance to the electric system and to cover the rising costs of transmitting power. Santa Clara’s electricity rates will remain among the lowest for California utilities serving over 5,000 customers. 

System improvements will include replacing old power poles, crossarms and transformers to prevent outages and maintain high quality service. California transmission costs have risen by almost 200 percent in recent years, which has placed pressure on electricity rates as SVP works to meet Santa Clara’s energy needs. The rate increase and system updates will help ensure a reliable power system for Santa Clara in the future.