As families navigate the spring season, many are reviewing household budgets and preparing for tax season. Utility expenses, especially electricity, can represent a significant portion of monthly costs. Understanding available assistance programs can help families reduce financial strain and plan more effectively.

For households served by Southern California Edison (SCE), there are programs designed to provide long-term savings and improve home energy efficiency.

Exploring Energy Support Programs

California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) and Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA)

• Families enrolled in programs such as Medi-Cal, Medicaid, SNAP, or other qualifying public assistance programs may be eligible for CARE or FERA. These programs offer monthly electricity bill discounts of up to 30 percent.
• For households that qualify, these savings can make a meaningful difference over time.

Energy Saving Assistance (ESA) Program

• In addition to monthly bill discounts, SCE’s Energy Saving Assistance program provides eligible households with no-cost or low-cost energy-efficient home improvements and appliances. These upgrades can help reduce energy usage and lower monthly bills.

Who Can Qualify?

You may be eligible if your household meets income guidelines or participates in certain public assistance programs, including:

• CalFresh (SNAP)
• Medi-Cal
• WIC
• SSI
• Or similar services

Eligibility depends on household size and total annual income.

These ongoing savings can create more flexibility in household budgets throughout the year.
In addition to bill discounts, SCE’s Energy Saving Assistance program provides qualified households with energy-efficient home improvements at little to no cost. These upgrades may include appliances or efficiency improvements that reduce electricity usage over time. Energy efficiency is not only cost-saving, it also supports sustainable household practices.

Important Information for Families

These programs apply only to households that have Southern California Edison as their electric utility provider. They do not apply to internet, water, gas, or other household services. Families can confirm their provider by reviewing their electric bill for “Southern California Edison” or “SCE,” checking the Supply or Generation section, or visiting the SCE website to confirm service availability in their area.

Families can confirm their provider by:
• Reviewing their electric bill
• Checking the generation/supply section
• Visiting the SCE website

Taking the Next Step

Access to essential services plays an important role in overall family stability. When families can reduce recurring expenses like electricity, they are better positioned to focus on long-term goals including their children’s education.
At PIQE, we believe informed families make empowered decisions. Sharing reliable, educational resources helps strengthen our communities both inside and outside the classroom.

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