Learning how Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) makes key decisions about water, energy, reliability, and affordability can seem hard at first - but it doesn't have to be, and it certainly doesn't need to be boring!
That is exactly why the Office of Public Accountability (OPA) developed a new series of 3 – 4 minute fun videos designed to add clarity over utility operations, planning and oversight - and put useful information directly into the hands of ratepayers.
Each short video breaks down core elements of LADWP's processes and OPA’s mission, from how we at OPA analyze rate proposals to why transparent public engagement matters. We provide clear explanations and real-world context audiences of all ages can understand.
Whether you’re a long-time Angeleno or new to issues around water and power, the series makes it easier to know how independent oversight works to protect the interests of LADWP customers.
- Video 1 – A backgrounder on LADWP and how OPA fits into the system (3 min)
- Video 2 – A primer on how LADWP develops and applies electricity rates (3.5 min)
- Video 3 – A primer on how LADWP develops and applies water rates (4 min)
- Video 4 – Details on the path forward for power and water investments for create a more resilient utility (3.5 min)
- Video 5 –Opportunities for customers to make their LADWP bills more affordable (3.5 min)
OPA serves as Los Angeles’ official Ratepayer Advocate, promoting transparency and accountability at LADWP while advocating for safe, reliable, affordable, and sustainable utility service. Our work includes independent analysis of rates, policies, investments, and long-term plans — providing information Angelenos can use to engage, learn, and participate in decisions that affect their bills and communities.
We hope this video series becomes a go-to resource for anyone curious about how utility systems work and how oversight translates into better service for all.
Click [here] to see the first video about how LADWP runs and make decisions, or head over to the Videos & Multimedia section on our website to watch all five episodes and stay informed about the issues shaping Los Angeles’s water and power systems.
The videos are also all streaming on OPAs YouTube Channel @LA_OPA
See below for a snippet of some of the topics covered in the series...
LADWP's Organization, Processes and Decision Making
OPA's Structure and Role
Water System Investments and Ambition
Power System Investments and Utility Transformation
Utility Rates and Cost Balancing
Customer Focused Information on Bill Drivers and Programs
Customer Assistance and Affordability Programs