Xavier Becerra Proposes “Power Hour” of Free Midday Electricity
California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra has proposed a "power hour" plan that would provide free electricity during a specific midday period. The proposal was announced at POLITICO's Sacramento Summit, with Becerra stating he would collaborate with regulators and energy providers…
San Francisco Oakland San Jose, CA, August 12, 2026 —
California gubernatorial candidate Xavier Becerra has introduced a proposal for a “power hour,” a plan designed to offer residents free electricity for a designated period during the midday.
The announcement was made at POLITICO’s Sacramento Summit. Becerra, who is seeking the state’s highest office, outlined the concept, which aims to provide a financial break to consumers by eliminating electricity costs for a specific, yet-to-be-determined, hour each day.
Details regarding the exact timing of this “power hour” and the specific midday period have not yet been finalized. Becerra indicated that implementing this initiative would involve close collaboration with key stakeholders in the state’s energy sector. He stated that he would work with regulators and energy providers to establish the necessary funding mechanisms to support the program.
The proposal comes as California continues to grapple with high energy costs and the ongoing transition to renewable energy sources. The specifics of how the “power hour” would be funded, and its potential impact on the state’s energy grid and existing rate structures, are expected to be subjects of further discussion and regulatory review should the proposal move forward.
Further information on the funding sources and the operational details of the “power hour” plan were not provided at the time of the announcement.
Story summarized from the original created by Monica Madden on abc7news.com, see more information here.
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