Big Bear Electric Customers Can Speak at October 27 Rate Hearing: 2 P.M. and 6 P.M.

BIG BEAR LAKE, California — Residents served by Bear Valley Electric Service have two opportunities on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, to tell state regulators what they think about the utility’s proposed rate increase. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has scheduled public participation hearings for 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. at Big Bear Lake City Hall.

The hearings concern Bear Valley Electric Service’s 2027 General Rate Case, application A.26-01-022. The utility is requesting a rate increase, but a request is not a final CPUC approval. The agency is collecting customer input before making its decision.

When and where

Tuesday, October 27, 2026: 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Pacific time.
In person: City of Big Bear Lake City Hall, 39707 Big Bear Boulevard, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315.
Remote listening: CPUC webcast via Admin Monitor.
Telephone participation: 1-800-857-1917, access code 1673482#. When prompted, callers who want to comment should follow the operator’s instructions, including pressing *1 to enter the speaking queue.

The CPUC says its public forums are free and open, with no advance RSVP required. People attending in person should arrive early enough to sign up if they want to speak. Speaking time may be limited if many customers participate.

What customers can raise

Customers may tell the commission how current electricity bills affect household budgets, what they expect from service reliability and wildfire preparedness, and what questions they have about the utility’s proposal. These are suggested topics for public input, not findings that the utility has failed to meet any particular obligation.

For residents who cannot attend, the CPUC provides a public-comment option through the proceeding’s official public participation page, including a link to the case’s online docket card. The CPUC Public Advisor’s Office can answer participation questions at public.advisor@cpuc.ca.gov or 866-849-8390.

People needing language or accessibility assistance should contact the Public Advisor’s Office. The CPUC normally requests at least three business days’ notice for interpreters, so a same-day request cannot be guaranteed.

Why the hearing matters

A general rate case is the regulatory process in which a utility asks the CPUC to authorize rates that support its operations and investment plans. The commission considers evidence and public comments before ruling. Attending a hearing does not itself change a bill, but comments become part of the public participation process.

For other local services and community updates, visit Big Bear Lake News.

Official source

California Public Utilities Commission — Public Participation Hearings, Bear Valley Electric Service 2027 General Rate Case (A.26-01-022).

Verified October 27, 2026. The rate request remains a proposal; California58 is not affiliated with the CPUC or Bear Valley Electric Service.

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