As our region and businesses slowly begin to re-open and many in our community are beginning to feel a sense of relief, we understand that many of us have a long road to recovery.

Our jobs, lives, and businesses have been impacted in unprecedented ways, and we want to ensure we’re here to support our customers by providing access to programs and resources to help with energy bill costs or finding payment arrangements that fit their needs.

Whether you need help finding the way forward with your energy costs for your home or your business, we’re here to help.

Home

We offer bill discount programs year-round for customers facing financial hardship. Impacts from the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in many more people qualifying for assistance programs who may not have qualified before. If you have lost your job, experienced lost wages, or receiving unemployment benefits, you may be eligible for CARE and FERA. While some of these options were not a direct response to the pandemic, they exist to help customers in difficult financial times.

• California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE): Provides a 30% or more discount on monthly bills. Qualification is based on participation in certain public assistance programs or household income as of today. No additional documents are required to apply.
• Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA): If a customer doesn’t qualify for CARE, they may qualify for FERA, which provides income-qualified households of three or more with a reduced electric rate (18% discount) on their monthly bill. 

Customers can also seek assistance through the federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program(LIHEAP), which helps low-income households with their energy bills. The program is overseen by the California Department of Community Services and Development (CSD) and administered by nonprofit agencies that have funding available right now to help residents with up to $1,000 on their energy bills. Additional funding is also expected with the recent passage of the federal economic stimulus package. To learn more, dial 2-1-1 for LIHEAP income guidelines and participating agencies. 

Business

Navigating COVID-19 and the many resources available as a business owner can be challenging. We’ve gathered many resources, including webinars and trainings explaining them in detail, to help you through this process. We’re also available to discuss your options regarding your energy bill and answer any questions you may have.

Webinars and trainings

Access free webinars and trainings to understand and locate resources for your business here. 

The federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act offers assistance to workers and businesses through the impacts of COVID-19. This webinar is for customers and vendors of the energy industry will help walk you through understanding the CARES Act. This webinar is offered by a third-party provider that is not a part of SDG&E.

Payment Arrangements for your Utility Bill

If you are having difficulty paying your energy bill, you can request a payment arrangement online through My Account or call our Business Contact Center at 1-800-336-7343.

Connect with suppliers for PPE

Download this resource list of suppliers offering Personal Protection Equipment (PPE), which also includes local small businesses in San Diego offering PPE.

Additional small business resources

• Find a Small Business Administration Resource Center
• Small Business Owner’s Guide to the CARES Act
• Small Business Administration (SBA) Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources 
• Fact Sheet from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Here to help

If you have questions about your account or what options are available to you, don’t hesitate to call us at 1-800-411-7343 for your home energy account or 1-800-336-7343 for business support.