Sponsored by: SDG&E | More and more San Diegans are finding it harder than ever to keep up with the rising cost of living. With housing, groceries, medical care and utility bills, they’re facing tough choices to keep the lights on. If you’re struggling to pay your energy bill, help could be on the way. Katy Homyk with San Diego Gas & Electric joins our Laura Cavanaugh to share how SDG&E is stepping up to help customers in need to save money. If there are families out there living paycheck to paycheck, Homyk says you are not alone. Relief could be as easy as a phone call away. SDG&E has many programs and services that can help customers manage their energy bills and support their energy needs, from debt forgiveness to flexible payment programs. One of the most popular programs is the CARE program. Eligible customers can save up to 30% or more on their energy bill every month. For example, if your average bill is $150 a month, then you could save $540 a year. Eligibility is based on current total household income and the number of people living in your home. Another way to be eligible is if you are already participating in specific public assistance programs, like WIC, CalFresh and SNAP. You may already qualify. But if your income is slightly higher than the limit for CARE, SDG&E automatically can check to see if you quality for FERA, or Family Electric Rate Assistance. It offers 18% off your electric bill each month. New this year is that households of one or two now qualify. If in the past you didn’t qualify for assistance, the income qualifications have changed. If you lost your job, if you have a change in wages, maybe you’re taking care of someone in your home and growing your household, this is a really great time to see if you’re eligible. Energy savings starts within the home. And small home improvements can make a big difference in your monthly energy bill. If you qualify for CARE or FERA, customers also qualify for ESA, or the Energy Saving Assistance program for no-cost or low-cost energy-saving home upgrades. “We actually send a contractor into your home and they go and look around and see how they can make your home more energy-efficient and comfortable,” said Homyk. This includes upgrades like attic insulation, replacing a refrigerator or air conditioning unit, even smart thermostats. “All of these small things help your home run more efficiently, which saves you money today, tomorrow and in the future.” The application process is quick, easy and confidential. SDG&E also has help available in Spanish. Find out if you qualify for discounts on your monthly energy bill. Visit www.sdge.com/assistance or Call 1-800-411-7343 Sponsored by: SDG&E