California Porch

California note

California power outages start with your electric utility

California outage checks usually start with the electric utility serving the address, then branch to local alerts, emergency information, or CPUC complaint and assistance pages when needed.

Start with the outage page or emergency number for the utility named on the bill. Report the address and check the estimated time for power to return. PG&E, Southern California Edison, and San Diego Gas & Electric serve many homes. Some cities and districts run public power systems instead.

Stay clear of a downed wire or sparking equipment. A gas smell, fire, or urgent medical danger is also an emergency. Call 911 and tell the utility. If someone uses powered medical equipment, follow that person’s emergency plan. Get emergency help if the backup cannot keep the person safe. An outage map does not replace that call.

Check city or county alerts when the outage involves other danger. This may include heat, fire weather, flooding, evacuation, or a public-safety power shutoff. The utility reports on its own system. Local officials give evacuation, shelter, road, and neighborhood instructions.

For a longer service or billing dispute, contact the utility first. The CPUC complaint process covers utilities it regulates. It does not cover a city or other public utility. Public power customers should use their utility’s complaint path and local governing body.

Where to see it

Major electric utility outage centers and CPUC consumer support pages.

Official sources

Official pages

Reviewed July 14, 2026

Current rules, forms, fees, deadlines, maps, and office instructions.

Rules, forms, fees, deadlines, and office procedures can change. Check the current page before you file, pay, or rely on a date.

Page feedback

See something wrong or unclear?

Send a note about this page. The page address will be included automatically.

Send a note