SAN DIEGO -- A report issued by San Diego Gas & Electric Friday, said 167 fires dating back to August 2003 were caused by electrical power line problems.

Of those 167 fires, the report said 13 occurred during high winds, and several became uncontrolled fires, such as Witch Creek, Guejito and Rice Canyon.

The report maintains the utility company’s position that electricity should be shut off in the back country during a Santa Ana windstorm. Last year, SDG&E proposed a similar plan to shut off power to areas experiencing extreme wind conditions. Backcountry residents were strongly opposed.

SDG&E backed away from the plan after the Public Utilities Commission asked to review it and several water districts filed lawsuits.

The SDG&E report said it will provide up to $250 per household to low-income customers and special-needs customers who experience an emergency power shut-off. The money, in the form of a debit card, will be mailed or hand-delivered. SDG&E also said special needs customers in the areas where power could be shut off, would be contacted by the utility before the power is shut down.

The PUC will hold two hearings in April to take public comments on the shut-off plan and hopes to make a decision in August.