SANTA CRUZ
Cannabis growers eligible for PG&E ag rate
Licensed medical marijuana growers and future recreational marijuana growers are eligible for PG&E’s agricultural energy rate under a policy change at the utility.
“Cannabis is a legal crop in our state, like almonds and tomatoes. Agricultural growers now will be eligible for the same rate and energy efficiency programs as farmers of other crops,” said Deborah Affonsa, vice president of Customer Service at PG&E.
PG&E customers are eligible for agricultural energy rates if they have received a permit from their local jurisdiction for the cultivation of cannabis and if 70 percent or more of the annual energy use on the meter is for agricultural uses such as growing crops and pumping water for agricultural irrigation. The agricultural energy rate applies to both to customers who grow cannabis outdoors and those who grow indoors in commercial greenhouses.
The agricultural energy rate does not apply to residential customers who can legally grow up to six marijuana plants inside a private residence per the state Adult Use of Marijuana Act.
Cannabis growing operations can use an extremely large amount of electricity, similar to data centers.
For ag rate information: 877-311-3276.
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