The text of this document may not be altered without express authorization of the Privacy Rights Clearinghouse. This fact sheet should be used as an information source and not as legal advice. 1717 Kettner Ave. Deregulation in California Legislation passed into law in 1996 is supposed to bring competition to the electric service industry in California. In the past, there has been only one company providing electric service to a given area.
Municipal utilities can also decide to allow competition into their service territories.
You now can choose which company sells you the electricity for your home or small business. But choice can bring confusion. You can make your choice based on several factors. The cost of electricity is one factor, of course, but not the only one. Another factor to consider when you select an Electric Service Provider is its privacy protection practices.