Rancho Palos Verdes Mayor John Cruikshank has reached out to Elon Musk, seeking assistance for residents facing gas and potential power shutoffs due to severe landslides. In a letter dated August 8, posted on X, he highlighted Tesla’s solar technology and Powerwall batteries as a means to support the community’s transition to sustainable energy amidst ongoing challenges.

Key points include:
– **Landslide Issues:** The coastal area has endured a slow-moving landslide for years, worsened by intense rains in 2023-24, resulting in significant structural damage to homes and infrastructure.
– **Emergency Status:** Rancho Palos Verdes has been under a local state of emergency since October, exacerbated by Southern California Gas Co. cutting off gas to 135 homes on July 29 for safety reasons.
– **Potential Power Shutoff:** Southern California Edison warned over 500 homes that electricity may also be shut off, complicating emergency responses since electricity is crucial for communications and infrastructure such as sewer systems.
– **Community Resilience:** Although some residents have evacuated, many are still in their homes, struggling for basic needs as they prepare for winter without access to gas.
– **Invitation to Partner:** Mayor Cruikshank has invited Musk to visit the area to explore a partnership that could showcase practical clean energy solutions, potentially enhancing Tesla’s reputation in the green energy sector.
– **Further Aid Requests:** The mayor is also seeking state and federal help for landslide repairs and support for affected residents, noting that typical insurance does not cover landslide damages.

As of now, there has been no response from Musk or Tesla regarding the mayor’s appeal.