(The Center Square) – Following an executive order from California Gov. Gavin Newsom to explore how to reduce energy prices that have doubled since 2014, California’s energy regulator issued proposals it said would cut rates by 4% to 5% in the first year but grow significantly over time.

These proposals include reforming the program that will pay homeowners $8.5 billion this year for solar panel energy, phasing out funding of non-energy related social programs such as “food deserts” assistance from energy budgets, and reducing capital expenditures.