Programs

A clear overview of common California utility related programs, rate options, incentives, and education topics. Availability depends on your utility provider and household situation.

10 programs on one page Public facing descriptions Easy to read, easy to print

Program overview

This page includes only the public facing descriptions.

1. California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE)
Statewide assistance program for income qualified households.

The CARE Program is a statewide assistance program designed to help income qualified households reduce their monthly utility expenses. As electricity rates continue to increase across California, many families experience growing financial pressure. The CARE Program provides ongoing relief by applying a significant monthly discount directly to the electric bill.

Qualified customers may receive approximately 30 to 35 percent off their electricity charges. The discount is applied automatically to each billing cycle once enrollment is approved. No changes in lifestyle, energy usage, or equipment are required.

This is not a temporary credit or seasonal program. CARE is structured as an ongoing benefit for households that meet eligibility requirements.

While the program reduces monthly bills, it does not prevent utility rate increases. The discount remains percentage based and continues as long as eligibility is maintained.

2. Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA)
Discount for households slightly above CARE limits.

The FERA Program provides electric bill discounts for households whose income slightly exceeds the CARE program limits but still require financial assistance.

Eligible households typically receive an approximate 18 percent discount on electricity charges. The discount is applied automatically once approved and continues as long as eligibility requirements are met.

FERA is designed to support working families who may not qualify for low income programs but still face increasing utility costs.

This program reduces the electric portion of the bill but does not prevent future rate increases.

3. Time of Use (TOU) Residential Rate
Pricing depends on when you use electricity.

Time of Use (TOU) rates are structured around when electricity is used rather than how much is used. Electricity costs more during peak demand hours and less during off peak hours.

Customers who shift energy intensive activities, such as laundry, dishwashing, and EV charging, to off peak hours may lower their overall electricity costs.

TOU does not provide a discount. Instead, it offers an opportunity to reduce costs through strategic energy usage.

If most electricity is used during peak hours, bills may increase under this structure.

4. Fixed Flat Rate Program
Predictable monthly energy costs based on historical usage.

The Fixed Flat Rate Program is designed to provide predictable monthly energy costs. Based on historical usage, customers are offered a fixed monthly payment amount instead of fluctuating seasonal bills.

This program offers stability and budgeting control. The monthly payment remains consistent regardless of seasonal changes in electricity consumption.

While this structure provides predictability, it may not always offer the lowest possible cost compared to variable usage based rates.

5. Rate Schedule Change
Transition to a different billing structure for better control.

The Rate Schedule Change allows customers to transition to a different billing structure or rate category based on their usage profile. In some cases, this may also include switching from bi monthly billing to monthly billing.

This adjustment may provide minor improvements in rate efficiency and allows customers to monitor and manage their electricity usage more consistently.

The program does not guarantee large reductions in total electricity costs but may improve budgeting visibility and usage control.

6. Power Savers Program
Incentives for homes with eligible smart thermostats.

The Power Savers Program is designed for residential customers with eligible smart thermostats connected to their air conditioning systems.

During periods of high grid demand, the program may temporarily adjust thermostat settings to reduce peak electricity usage. In return, participants receive incentives or bill credits based on program guidelines.

This program provides seasonal savings while supporting grid stability. Participation is voluntary and can typically be adjusted or discontinued if necessary.

7. Attic Insulation Rebate Program
Rebates for qualifying attic insulation upgrades.

The Attic Insulation Rebate Program encourages homeowners to improve energy efficiency by upgrading attic insulation.

Proper insulation reduces heat transfer, helping maintain indoor temperatures more effectively and lowering heating and cooling demands.

Eligible customers may receive rebates for qualifying insulation products and installation.

This program reduces long term energy waste rather than directly lowering electricity rates.

8. GoGreen Home Energy Financing
Affordable financing for qualified energy efficiency upgrades.

GoGreen Home Energy Financing is a state supported program that provides affordable financing for qualified energy efficiency upgrades.

Homeowners may finance improvements such as HVAC systems, insulation, windows, or other qualifying upgrades without large upfront costs.

This program makes energy improvements more accessible while spreading payments over time.

It is a financing solution, not a direct discount on electricity rates.

9. Residential Off Peak EV Charging Incentive
Incentives for charging EVs during approved off peak hours.

This program provides incentives for residential customers who charge electric vehicles during approved off peak hours.

Participants may receive a fixed monthly incentive, typically paid annually, for charging during designated lower demand times.

The program encourages grid stability and responsible charging behavior.

It does not alter electricity rates but rewards off peak participation.

10. Sun Renewable Program
A long term solution to reduce costs and protect against rate increases.

Sun Renewable is a long term solution designed to help homeowners reduce electric costs and protect themselves from future utility rate increases. Instead of staying exposed to a bill that rises year after year, you move to a predictable monthly plan that can stay fixed for up to 20 years.

Most homeowners can qualify with $0 down payment, meaning nothing out of pocket to get started. The goal is simple, replace a growing utility bill with a stable payment and begin saving from the first month when the system is properly designed for your usage.

Typical benefits
  • Immediate savings, you can start paying less right away
  • Fixed cost up to 20 years, protection from annual utility increases
  • $0 down in many cases, no large upfront expense
  • Ownership option, you may qualify to own the system and capture long term value

Quick eligibility note: This program is often a strong fit for homeowners with an electric bill over $150 per month, especially if rates have been climbing and budgeting has become unpredictable.