Can the utility hold me responsible for a bill that is not in my name?

This varies from case to case and you should contact the CPUC Consumer Affairs Branch if you’re unsatisfied with the utility’s position, but generally, if you share a home with another adult, each of you may be held liable for the bill, regardless of whose name the bill is under. If the service is disconnected for nonpayment, the utility may refuse to put service in another resident's name until the bill is paid.