The intensity of these blackouts is driven not just by weather, but by a major change in risk assessment by the utilities. PG&E, the utility that services most

The intensity of these blackouts is driven not just by weather, but by a major change in risk assessment by the utilities. PG&E, the utility that services most of northern California, was sued by a number of insurance entities after it was found that their equipment was the cause of several major wildfires over the last few years. Most notably the 2018 Camp Fire, which was the deadliest and most expensive wildfire in California history. But most importantly, it's what didn't happen: the state of California did not bail out or grant PG&E immunity from these lawsuits. PG&E settled with the insurance entities and has since filed for bankruptcy protection, since the possible liability is larger than their market cap. The blackouts are a way to minimize further risk and liability. But I would also guess that the intensity of blackouts is a not so subtle middle finger by the utilities to the state government for its resigned treatment of these issues.