Peninsula Family Service and San Jose Clean Energy have partnered to help promote utility customer protections that have been extended through September 30, 2021.
The California Public Utilities Commission recently voted to extend COVID-19 customer protections through September 30, 2021 (previously scheduled to expire on June 30, 2021). This means you are still protected from having your power turned off due to nonpayment. However, if you have an overdue balance on your electricity bill it is still important to develop a plan and take action as soon as possible to avoid disconnection once protections expire.
Earlier this year, the state approved a new program called the Arrearage Management Plan (AMP) to help income-qualifying residential customers reduce or eliminate debt owed on their electricity bills up to $8,000. The AMP program is administered by PG&E and available to San José Clean Energy (SJCE) customers who meet eligibility requirements.
Under the CPUC’s recent decision, electricity customers with balances over 60 days old will be automatically be enrolled in 24-month payment plans. There is an opt-out provision for customers who do not want to be enrolled in a payment plan and income-qualifying customers can still choose to enroll in the AMP program.
If you are struggling to keep up with utility bills, SJCE has outlined a list of assistance programs that you may be eligible for. Visit www.SanJoseCleanEnergy.org/Discount-Programs or call 833-432-2454 for more information, including eligibility requirements and how to apply. Customers can also sign up to receive texts from SJCE with tips on how to save money and program updates. Text SAVINGS to (833) 415-2329 to sign up today.