Why It Matters

PG&E Corp. is positioning itself to capitalize on federal policy shifts driven by data center growth and AI’s power demands. With wholesale electricity costs near data centers up as much as 267 percent in five years, and Congress actively exploring nuclear energy as a solution, PG&E’s new focus on "Energy/Nuclear" issues through Mountain View Partners appears strategically timed. Federal funding for grid modernization and nuclear infrastructure could allow PG&E to expand capacity without shifting costs to residential ratepayers—a critical concern as rate increases threaten to exceed 25 percent in some areas by 2030.

By the Numbers

PG&E Corp. has spent $11.64 million on federal lobbying since 2003, historically working with Akin Gump Strauss Hauer & Feld LLP ($7.57 million, 2003-2019) and Navigators Global LLC ($3.49 million, 2004-2025).

In final quarter 2025, PG&E added Mountain View Partners DC LLC, a boutique firm focused exclusively on energy and nuclear policy. This represents $60,000 in final quarter 2025 fees, bringing Mountain View’s total from PG&E to $140,000 since August 2025.

The Agenda

PG&E Corp. hired Mountain View Partners DC LLC to lobby on energy and nuclear policy and funding issues. While specific legislation wasn’t disclosed, the timing aligns with intense congressional activity on grid modernization and data center energy demands.

Relevant bills include the H.R.6177 – Grid Research and Development Act, H.R.5964 – Integrated Resource Planning Modernization Act, and S.1475 – Clean Cloud Act of 2025, which address grid infrastructure, utility planning requirements, and data center energy consumption. Congressional hearings on nuclear solutions for AI infrastructure underscore federal interest in nuclear power as a solution to surging AI electricity demand.

Broader Context

Congress faces an unprecedented energy crisis driven by AI data centers. Data centers consume 4.4 percent of U.S. electricity and are projected to reach 8-13 percent by 2028. In California, utilities have received requests for 18.7 gigawatts of data center capacity—more than the state’s entire current residential demand.

This surge creates political pressure on utilities. Over 50 million Americans face higher utility bills from 2025 rate hikes. States are responding: Oregon requires utilities to charge data centers separately, and at least a dozen states are targeting data centers with higher electric rates.

Congress is mobilizing around nuclear power as a solution. Major tech companies including Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and Meta are partnering with nuclear developers to power data centers.

Between The Lines

The House Science, Space and Technology Committee hearing on nuclear solutions for AI infrastructure directly addresses PG&E’s "Energy/Nuclear" focus. California representatives are particularly active—Rep. Doris Matsui co-sponsored the SECURE Grid Act, while Rep. Mike Levin and Rep. Kathy Castor introduced the SHIELD Act, requiring large energy users like data centers to bear grid infrastructure costs.

Competitive Landscape

PG&E isn’t lobbying alone. Consolidated Edison is actively lobbying on grid modernization, resilience, and clean energy tax credits. The National Electrical Contractors Association is engaged on utility construction and smart grid technology.

The Bottom Line

PG&E’s $60,000 the final quarter of 2025 engagement with Mountain View Partners signals strategic positioning around nuclear energy as Congress addresses AI’s electricity demands. With California data center requests reaching 18.7 gigawatts and Diablo Canyon approved through 2030, PG&E is betting federal support for nuclear expansion will be central to solving the AI energy crisis.

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