After a cold winter that saw significant increases in energy costs, we encourage all households struggling to pay their PG&E bills to explore the following three programs:
- California Alternate Rates for Energy Program (CARE): Monthly 20% discount for low-income families.
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): Support with emergency one-time payments or in-home weatherization services.
- Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH): Energy credit for up to $300 based on a past due bill.
About the Programs
CARE and FERA
CARE and FERA are PG&E discount programs that help eligible customers pay their energy bills. Over 1.4 million customers are receiving a bill discount through these two programs. Simply complete the online CARE/FERA enrollment form to find out if you’re eligible.
- California Alternate Rates for Energy Program (CARE). A monthly discount of 20% or more on gas and electricity. Participants qualify through income guidelines or if enrolled in certain public assistance programs.
- Family Electric Rate Assistance Program (FERA). A monthly discount of 18% on electricity only. Must be a household with three or more people. Participants qualify through income guidelines.
LIHEAP
LIHEAP stands for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
It may be able to help you pay your energy bill.
LIHEAP is a federally funded program that helps low-income households pay for heating or cooling in their homes.
With additional federal funding available to help households struggling with higher energy costs and making ends meet, many Californians in need may qualify.
LIHEAP can offer a one-time payment to help you:
- Pay your heating or cooling bills, even if you use wood, propane, or oil.
- In an emergency or energy crisis, such as a utility disconnection.
In addition to help with paying your energy bill, LIHEAP can also provide in-home weatherization services for:
- Improved energy efficiency; and
- Health and safety.
REACH
Get aid and receive help paying your energy bill during a crisis. For over 40 years, the REACH program has helped low-income families keep their utilities services turned on in times of hardship.
The REACH program helps you pay for energy during a crisis. REACH provides an energy credit for up to $500 based on the past due bill (energy credit support is subject to funding availability). A non-profit organization runs the REACH program from 170 offices in Northern and Central California.
PLEASE NOTE: REACH is available only once within a 12-month period and the customers must qualify for the program.
Reposted on behalf of the Oak Park Neighborhood Association
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