Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is an energy utility that handles the generation, transmission, distribution, and retail sale of electricity and natural gas to a broad customer base across northern and central California. The company generates its electricity from a varied portfolio, including nuclear, hydroelectric, fossil fuel, and solar (photovoltaic) power sources. PG&E is also developing an innovative personal microgrid backup power transfer meter designed to integrate smoothly with its established SmartMeter system for customers.