San Francisco Mayor Daniel Lurie faced severe criticism for diverting backup power to the Opera House amid a citywide blackout. The blackout, which occurred just days before Christmas, left an estimated 20,000 homes and businesses without electricity. The incident has raised questions about prioritization during emergencies.
Power Diversion for the Nutcracker
During the blackout, Lurie requested PG&E to provide emergency generators to the San Francisco Opera House. His daughter was performing the lead role of Clara in the Nutcracker ballet, a beloved holiday tradition in the city. Records show that the mayor was directly involved in efforts to allocate scarce resources to this event.
Response from PG&E and Officials
PG&E CEO Sumeet Singh testified that the decision to redirect power to the ballet was made following a request from Lurie. However, afterward, some company representatives appeared to walk back this assertion. Singh indicated that despite restoring power to about 90% of customers, the company responded to the mayor’s request to supply temporary generation specifically for the ballet.
- Mayor Lurie requested backup generators for the Nutcracker on December 21.
- Singh reported working “feverishly” to restore power to the area.
- The blackout lasted for several days, affecting a significant portion of San Francisco.
The War Memorial Opera House director praised Lurie’s involvement in securing two massive generators for the performances. In an email, she highlighted the collaboration between her office, the Department of Emergency Management, and the mayor’s office.
Community Outrage
Residents expressed anger over the perceived favoritism shown towards the ballet. Many voiced their frustration on social media, noting that low-income neighborhoods, such as the Tenderloin and Richmond, were left without power for extended periods. Comments reflected concern for families facing spoiled food and lack of heating during the winter.
Economic Impact of the Blackout
The blackout has had a lasting financial impact on the city, with some business owners reporting losses exceeding $100,000 due to spoiled inventory and lost revenue. In response, small business owners have filed a class-action lawsuit against PG&E.
- One-third of San Francisco was affected by the blackout.
- PG&E’s equipment suffered significant damage after a fire at a local substation.
- The utility has not yet determined the cause of the fire.
As the situation unfolded, the mayor’s office attempted to clarify its role. Lurie’s spokesperson stated that communication with PG&E and local institutions was crucial during the emergency period. They emphasized the importance of supporting cultural events that generate revenue for the city.
In summary, the diversion of backup power to the Nutcracker ballet amid the blackout has sparked considerable debate regarding the city’s response to emergencies, revealing deeper issues of equity and resource allocation.
