Electric Power Companies Help Customers Struggling Due to Coronavirus

At Santa Barbara Sparky, we're dedicated to keeping your lights on. To that end, here is some information on how utility companies are offering help if your household is having trouble paying your electric bill during this pandemic.

 

Southern California Edison is suspending service connections due to non-payment, and is waiving late fees by request for both residential and business customers. Visit sce.com/billhelp or call 1-800-950-2356 to work out payment arrangements that could spread out your payments during this difficult season.

 

PG&E is offering financial assistance programs for those affected by COVID-19. Even if you are receiving unemployment benefits, you may still qualify for a reduced energy rate through California Alternative Rates for Energy (CARE) or Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA). Apply for the discounts here: https://www.pge.com/en_US/residential/save-energy-money/help-paying-your-bill/longer-term-assistance/care/care.page. PG&E also offers Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH), where customers can get up to $100 in bill payment assistance through March of 2021. If you have special energy needs because of medical conditions, you may qualify for lower rates with the Medical Baseline Program. PG&E is also offering flexible payment plans to pay your balance over several months, and is suspending service disconnections due to non-payment. Call PG&E at 877-660-6789 for further information.