Is MCE Really a Better Deal for Contra Costa County?

MCE, or Marin Clean Energy, has been making waves in Contra Costa County. It promised cheaper and greener energy, breaking PG&E's monopoly. But is it really delivering? MCE is now mostly a Contra Costa operation. Fifteen of its nineteen cities, plus unincorporated areas, have joined. That's more customers than in Marin, Solano, and Napa combined. So, Contra Costa residents should pay attention to MCE's recent troubles. MCE's latest financial report shows a $12 million loss in 2025. The year before, they had a $144 million profit. This loss might grow because MCE has long-term contracts at fixed prices. Meanwhile, electricity rates are falling. Other CCAs in Southern California have faced big problems. Western Community Energy filed for bankruptcy in 2021. Orange County Power Authority was criticized for lack of transparency and poor hiring. These cases show a bigger issue: CCAs are run by part-time officials who may not have the time or expertise to manage complex finances.MCE is more experienced than these agencies, but it's not problem-free. MCE's CEO made $703, 511 in 2024. That's more than peers running larger agencies. MCE also spends more on contractors than other CCAs. MCE promised cheaper rates than PG&E. But now, MCE's Light Green plan costs $3. 06 more per month. The Deep Green plan costs $8. 53 more. With higher power costs locked in, MCE must choose between matching PG&E's rate cuts or staying financially stable. Contra Costa officials and ratepayers need to pay more attention. They can't be silent partners in an agency mainly funded by Contra Costa customers. Local leaders need to demand better financial oversight and governance. MCE was supposed to be better than PG&E. But if we're not careful, we might find MCE is more expensive and less stable. Four Contra Costa cities haven't joined MCE yet. They should be cautious before jumping in.