Powering the Mountain Since 1929

On January 30, 2026, Bear Valley Electric Service, Inc. (BVES) submitted its 2027–2030 General Rate Case (GRC) application to the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). If approved on schedule, updated rates would go into effect January 1, 2027.

Safe, Reliable Power for Big Bear
Your safety and the safety of our mountain communities guides every decision we make. The GRC request supports essential day‑to‑day operations as well as major upgrades that strengthen reliability and reduce wildfire risk. These investments reinforce our system, modernize aging equipment, and help limit the need for Public Safety Power Shutoff (PSPS) events during extreme weather.

Why Is BVES Requesting a Rate Increase

Every four years, BVES is required to file a GRC to ensure that rates accurately reflect the cost of delivering safe, reliable electric service. Much of the requested increase directly supports public safety and wildfire mitigation.

From 2027–2030, BVES is proposing approximately $109 million in new capital investments to:

• Reduce ignition risk

• Improve system reliability

• Strengthen resilience against extreme weather

• Support emergency response and community safety

Delaying these upgrades would increase the likelihood of outages, emergency repairs, and wildfire‑related hazards.

Balancing Safety and Affordability

We know that energy costs matter. BVES works hard to balance affordability with the critical need to maintain a safe and dependable electric system. Our goal is to invest wisely today to prevent more costly and disruptive problems tomorrow.

Financial Assistance Is Available

We understand that financial situations can change. BVES offers a variety of assistance programs for qualifying customers. Visit our Assistance Programs webpage to explore available options.

Building a Safe, Reliable Electric System

The proposed 2027–2030 GRC includes approximately $109 million in targeted infrastructure improvements focused on reliability, wildfire mitigation, and community safety. These projects are designed to reduce ignition risk, keep power flowing during severe weather, and minimize the need for PSPS events.

Key Investments Include:

• Covered Conductor Replacement
  Replacing 60 circuit miles of overhead power lines with covered conductor to significantly reduce the chance of sparks if lines contact vegetation or debris.

• Substation and Grid Upgrades
  Replacing aging equipment, installing underground lines, and upgrading transformers to improve safety and reliability. New safety technologies and mobile generation resources will help reduce PSPS impacts and support the community during emergencies.

• Evacuation Route Hardening
  Strengthening critical evacuation routes to ensure first responders and residents can move safely during wildfire events.

• Switch and Field Device Automation
  Deploying smart technology that detects early signs of equipment issues so crews can respond quickly, helping prevent ignitions and protect public safety.

How Electric Rates Are Set

Every four years, BVES submits a General Rate Case to the CPUC outlining the costs to operate, maintain, and improve the electric system. The CPUC’s Public Advocates Office and Commissioners review the request to ensure fairness and affordability. Customers are encouraged to participate by submitting comments or attending public hearings.