CHICO, Calif. -- The Chico City Council is set to discuss a proposal that could grant residents greater freedom in choosing their utility services.

The council will consider ending its participation in the Butte Choice Energy Joint Powers Agreement, a collaboration with the county and the City of Oroville.

City leaders initially explored an alternative, City Choice Aggregation, in 2016 to potentially reduce costs and spur economic development. Following the proposed departure from the current joint powers agreement, Chico Public Works recommends the city join a Community Choice Aggregation with Pioneer Community Energy. This partnership would allow Pioneer to provide electricity while utilizing PG&E's infrastructure.

"You could choose to either go with the new opportunity, which is Pioneer Community Energy, or you could choose to remain with PG&E. Pioneer Community Energy offers a savings, in 2024, customers realized about a 10% savings when compared to PG&E. They have some different options too if someone wanted to opt for a renewable energy package, they have that choice," Director of Public Works Operations and Maintenance, Erik Gustafson, told KRCR ahead of the meeting.

If both proposals are approved, Pioneer will immediately begin drafting an implementation plan for approval by the California Public Utilities Commission. Chico Public Works said residents could expect the transition to occur in 2027, allowing Pioneer sufficient time to secure enough energy to serve the county.

Residents would continue to receive their monthly bills from PG&E, but the energy charges would be determined by Pioneer.