Unlocking Value: How to Get the Most Out of Your PG&E Services

Unlocking Value: How to Get the Most Out of Your PG&E Services

Whether you’re a homeowner or a small business, PG&E offers a range of tools and programs that can help you manage energy use, reduce costs, and even earn discounts. Here’s how to maximize your benefits.

1. Understand Your Bill & Choose the Right Plan

• Decode your bill – Learn how much energy you’re using and when, what you’re paying per kWh, and whether you’re on the most cost-effective rate plan. View PG&E’s bill help page here.

• Use rate analysis tools – PG&E’s “Rate Plan Comparison” tool helps you find the lowest-rate plan based on your actual usage. Time-of-Use plans can save money if you shift energy use to off-peak hours.

  
  

2. Tap Into Money-Saving Programs & Financial Aid

• CARE – 20% or more off your bill if you qualify.

• FERA – Approximately 18% off for moderate-income households.

• Medical Baseline Program – Extra low-cost energy allotment for customers with medical needs.

• Energy Savings Assistance Program – Free home improvements like weatherstripping and efficient lighting for qualifying households.

• Other support programs:

  
  

  • REACH – One-time energy credit up to $300.

  • LIHEAP – State program that can provide up to $1,000 toward your bill.

  • Arrearage Management Plan – Forgives up to $8,000 in past-due balances if enrolled in CARE or FERA.

  
  

3. Learn Everyday & Seasonal Savings Tactics

Tips:

• Unplug “vampire devices” like TVs, chargers, and game consoles when not in use. These can account for up to 10% of your home’s energy use.

• Use smart power strips to cut standby power quickly.

• Shorten showers, run full laundry loads in cold water, keep the fridge at 38–42 °F, and air-dry laundry when possible. See PG&E’s everyday tips.

Seasonal Tips:

• Switch to LED bulbs – PG&E’s lighting tips show potential savings of $260/year.

• Install a variable-speed pool pump and pool cover – potential savings of up to $2,700/year.

• Weatherproof your home – up to $420/year in savings.

• Use a programmable thermostat to pre-cool before you get home instead of running the AC all day.

4. Leverage Smart Tools & Energy Coaching

• Home Energy Checkup – Free online tool that gives you personalized tips.

• HomeIntel – Free program with an energy coach; average savings $350/year.

• SmartMeter™ – Real-time tracking of your energy use.

• Bill Forecast Alerts – Get notified if your bill is trending higher than expected.

5. Consider Community Choice Aggregation (CCA)

Many customers now receive electricity from Community Choice Aggregators, while PG&E still delivers power and maintains infrastructure. CCAs may offer greener or more cost-effective energy options.

Why This Matters

PG&E rates are among the highest in the nation due to wildfire mitigation, infrastructure upgrades, and operating costs. Staying informed and proactive is the best way to keep your bills under control.

Checklist

✅ Review your rate plan annually

✅ Enroll in discount programs you qualify for

✅ Use PG&E’s free energy tools

✅ Practice energy-saving habits

✅ Explore CCAs for possible savings