Are you a Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PGE) customer in California looking for ways to lower your energy bills? The Renew Pge Care Program, also known as the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, is designed to provide significant discounts to eligible low-income households. This program can substantially reduce your monthly expenses, making energy more affordable.
What is the PGE CARE Program?
The PGE CARE program offers a discount of 30-35 percent on your electric bill and a 20 percent discount on your natural gas bill. This discount is a significant benefit for households struggling to manage energy costs. Funded through a rate surcharge paid by other utility customers, CARE ensures that those who need assistance the most receive it.
Eligibility for the PGE CARE Program
Eligibility for the PGE CARE program is primarily based on your household income. As of June 1, 2024, the income limits are effective through May 31, 2025, and are as follows:
| Household Size | Income Eligibility Upper Limit |
|---|---|
| 1-2 | $40,880 |
| 3 | $51,640 |
| 4 | $62,400 |
| 5 | $73,160 |
| 6 | $83,920 |
| 7 | $94,680 |
| 8 | $105,440 |
| Each Additional Person | $10,760 |
Effective June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025
Beyond income, you may also qualify for CARE if you are enrolled in certain public assistance programs. These programs include:
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal
- Women, Infants and Children Program (WIC)
- Healthy Families A & B
- National School Lunch’s Free Lunch Program (NSL)
- Food Stamps/SNAP
- Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Head Start Income Eligible (Tribal Only)
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Tribal TANF
Enrollment in any of these programs automatically makes you eligible for the PGE CARE program.
How to Renew or Apply for the PGE CARE Program
To apply for the PGE CARE program or inquire about renewing your enrollment, the first step is to contact PGE directly. You can reach them through the following channels:
- Phone: 866-743-2273
- Website: PGE CARE Program Website
Their website provides detailed information, application forms, and answers to frequently asked questions. You can also request an application form and assistance from numerous community agencies throughout California.
Other California Utility CARE Programs
While this article focuses on the PGE CARE program, similar CARE programs are available from other utility companies in California. Here is a quick list with contact information for some of the major providers:
| Utility | Phone | Website |
|---|---|---|
| Edison | 866-675-6623 | Edison CARE |
| SDG&E | 800-411-7343 | SDG&E CARE |
| SoCalGas | 800-427-2200 | SoCalGas CARE |
| Alpine Nat’l Gas | 209-772-3006 | Alpine Nat’l Gas PROGRAMS |
| Bear Valley Elect | 800-808-2837 | Bear Valley Elect CARE |
| PacifiCorp | 888-221-7070 | PacifiCorp Financial Assistance |
| Liberty Utilities | 800-782-2506 | Liberty Utilities CARE |
| Southwest Gas | 877-860-6020 | Southwest Gas Special Programs |
| West Coast Gas | 916-364-4100 | West Coast Gas CARE |
Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) Program
If your household income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits, you might still be eligible for assistance through the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. FERA offers an 18% discount on your electricity bill and is available to customers of Southern California Edison, San Diego Gas and Electric Company, and Pacific Gas and Electric Company. Contact your utility to see if you qualify for FERA.
Conclusion
The Renew PGE CARE Program is a valuable resource for low-income customers in California to manage their energy expenses. By providing substantial discounts on electricity and natural gas bills, CARE helps make living more affordable. If you believe you are eligible, don’t hesitate to contact PGE or visit their website to apply and start saving today. Take advantage of this program to ease your financial burden and ensure reliable energy access for your household.
