The PG&E Medical Baseline Program provides financial support to customers who rely on electric-powered medical devices, ensuring they receive sufficient energy to maintain their health needs.
Eligibility for the Medical Baseline Program is based on specific medical needs, such as the use of medical equipment that requires electricity, including oxygen machines or heating and cooling devices.
Participants in the Medical Baseline Program may receive increased energy allowances which can help offset the higher energy consumption often required for medical equipment.
To apply for the Medical Baseline Program, customers need to fill out an application available on the PG&E website, which can be done online or submitted via mail.
PG&E also operates the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which offers discounts on utility bills for qualifying low-income households.
CARE program participants can receive a discount of over 20% on their electricity and gas bills, making it financially easier for those with limited incomes to manage energy costs.
The Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program offers an 18% discount on electric rates specifically for households with three or more members, providing another layer of financial support.
Both the CARE and FERA programs share a common application process, simplifying the enrollment for those who may qualify for either or both programs.
PG&E also supports customers during Public Safety Power Shutoffs (PSPS) by providing alerts to those enrolled in the Medical Baseline Program, ensuring they can prepare for potential outages.
Applications for CARE and FERA discounts can be initiated by providing income information or proof of participation in certain public assistance programs.
Customers initially enrolled in the CARE program enjoy the discount for two years, with extensions available for fixed-income households which can last up to four years.
Three months prior to the expiration of a discount period, PG&E sends a notification to eligible customers, prompting them to reapply if they still meet the criteria.
Those who wish to apply for the Medical Baseline Program must continue to pay their PG&E bills; failure to do so may lead to disconnection of services.
The California Public Utilities Commission established the Medical Baseline Program to protect vulnerable populations who depend on electricity for medical care.
An online PG&E account can expedite the application and verification process for the Medical Baseline Program, allowing for quicker access to support.
For customers who do not qualify for CARE, PG&E will automatically assess their eligibility for FERA, ensuring all options for assistance are explored.
The rates and discounts offered by PG&E through these programs are regularly evaluated, providing a responsive approach to energy affordability based on customer needs.
PG&E encourages customers to communicate their preferred method of contact for alerts and support, offering translation services in 240 languages for non-English speakers.
Medical device usage statistics reveal that approximately 1 in 10 households might qualify for the Medical Baseline Program, indicating a significant potential impact on community health.
With advancing technology, more efficient medical devices are emerging which may influence energy consumption patterns, highlighting the importance of ongoing support for energy affordability.