January 30, 2025

CA Electricity Bills Include Profits for Shareholders | How the Wine Industry is Responding to New Alcohol Guidelines | The Escapism of ‘Butterscotch Den’

48 minutes

Why investor-owned California utilities include profits for shareholders in electricity bills. Also, how the state’s wine industry is responding to new alcohol guidelines. Finally, the philosophy and vibe behind Sacramento’s “Butterscotch Den.”

CA Electricity Bills Include Profits for Shareholders

CalMatters Business Reporter Malena Carollo shares her recent reporting explaining one reason behind California’s electricity bills - a baked-in profit for shareholders. Called a “return on equity,” the amount is meant to compensate investor-owned utilities, like PG&E, for the risk of doing business. It pays back shareholders for their investment in the companies and helps utilities maintain a higher credit rating to attract better loan rates for future projects.
CalMatters is a nonprofit newsroom that partners with public media stations across the state.

How the Wine Industry is Responding to New Alcohol Guidelines

A modern trend to start the new year is “Dry January,” when people abstain from drinking alcohol as a way to feel healthier and save money. This idea has gained steam in recent years, as the effects of alcohol on the body have received increasing attention from health officials. Insight’s wine expert Rick Kushman talks about the changing attitudes and nuances toward drinking, as well as how California’s wine industry is shifting to meet these tastes.

The Escapism of ‘Butterscotch Den’

For the past several years, a lounge in Sacramento’s Oak Park neighborhood has offered visitors a form of escapism to the 1960s and 70s - grilling their own steaks, enjoying a cocktail and listening to local live music. Lindsay Nader and Trevor Easter are the owners of Butterscotch Den and join Insight to talk about the philosophy behind the restaurant’s vibe.

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