San Antonio residents are reacting to Gov. Greg Abbott’s plan to break up energy monopolies like CPS Energy. Abbott announced the plan on Tuesday, citing high energy costs in the city. CPS Energy customer Carl Duelm, who hosted Abbott at his Northeast Side home, supports the plan. “Our energy costs have been going up by the year,” Duelm said. “My last bill right at this time last year was $280, and this one was $326, so that’s almost a $50 increase.”

Abbott’s Plan

Abbott’s plan would allow consumers in San Antonio to choose their own energy provider, potentially leading to lower rates. “All consumers in the City of San Antonio would be able to do what other people in Texas are able to do, is do a Google search for retail electric provider and find a lower rate than currently provided by CPS Energy,” Abbott said. He noted that cheaper energy is available in cities like Dallas and Houston, which have more energy provider options.

However, San Antonio Mayor Gina Ortiz Jones disagreed with Abbott’s assessment, citing data that shows San Antonio has some of the cheapest utility costs in the state. The Texas Public Power Association also released a statement opposing the plan, saying it could increase Texans’ bills and reduce customer service.

Reactions

KSAT asked viewers for their opinions on the plan, with 36% saying they believe choosing their own energy provider could lower their monthly bill, and 64% saying no. The plan has sparked a debate about the best way to provide affordable and reliable energy to Texans.

Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.