PG&E's Family Electric Rate Assistance Program Expands

James

3 min read

Post on Jun 09, 2025

4.6

Share

PG&E Expands Family Electric Rate Assistance Program: More Californians Can Now Access Affordable Energy

California families struggling to afford electricity will find some relief as Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) announces a significant expansion of its Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program. This vital program provides crucial financial support to low-income households, helping them manage their energy bills and avoid disconnections. The expansion means thousands more Californians can now access this essential assistance.

What is the FERA Program?

The Family Electric Rate Assistance program is a lifeline for many California families. It offers discounted electricity rates based on income and household size. This means lower monthly bills and greater financial stability, particularly during periods of high energy demand or unexpected expenses. Previously, eligibility requirements were stricter, limiting access for many deserving families. This expansion aims to address that issue.

Key Changes in the Expanded Program:

The recent expansion of the FERA program introduces several key changes designed to reach more families in need:

• Increased Income Eligibility Limits: The most significant change is the raising of the income eligibility thresholds. This allows more families to qualify, even those who previously fell just outside the eligibility range. The specific income limits vary depending on household size and can be found on the official PG&E website (link to PG&E website).
• Simplified Application Process: PG&E has streamlined the application process, making it easier for families to apply for assistance. The online application is now more user-friendly, and assistance is available for those who need help navigating the process.
• Enhanced Outreach Efforts: PG&E is actively reaching out to communities across its service area to raise awareness about the expanded program. This includes targeted outreach to underserved communities and partnerships with local organizations to ensure that eligible families are informed and can access the assistance they need.

Who Qualifies for FERA?

Eligibility for the FERA program is based on several factors, including:

• Household income: Income must fall below the specified limits for your household size.
• Household size: The number of people living in your home impacts eligibility.
• Residential address: You must reside within PG&E's service area.

You can find detailed information about eligibility criteria and required documentation on the official PG&E website. The website also provides a helpful online application tool.

Beyond FERA: Other PG&E Assistance Programs

While the FERA expansion is significant, PG&E offers several other programs designed to assist customers with their energy bills. These include:

• CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy): This program offers significantly reduced electricity rates for qualified low-income customers.
• Medical Baseline Allowance: For customers with serious medical conditions requiring significant energy use for medical equipment, this program can help.

It's crucial for California residents struggling with energy costs to explore all available options. Don't hesitate to contact PG&E directly to discuss your specific situation and learn about potential assistance programs.

Call to Action: Visit the PG&E website today to learn more about the FERA program and determine your eligibility. Don't let high energy costs burden your family – help is available. [Link to PG&E FERA page]

Keywords: PG&E, Family Electric Rate Assistance, FERA, California, energy assistance, low-income, affordable energy, electricity bill, PG&E assistance programs, CARE, Medical Baseline Allowance, energy bill assistance, California energy programs.