PacifiCorp, a Berkshire Hathaway utility subsidiary, is legally challenging a 2023 jury verdict finding it grossly negligent for the 2020 Oregon wildfires. The company is petitioning the Oregon Court of Appeals to overturn a class-action case that exposes it to billions of dollars in potential losses.
PacifiCorp warns that the resulting financial strain may force the utility to cease all operations within the state of Oregon. The initial verdict and potential damages have already triggered credit rating downgrades and unsettled bondholders.
The appeal argues the court improperly certified the class action by grouping property owners affected by different fires into a single case.