Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is advising customers to review their current rate plans, as switching could help lower energy bills without requiring changes in usage habits. The company recommends that customers log into their PG&E online accounts and use the Rate Comparison tool to identify the most cost-effective plan for their household or business.
Vincent Davis, PG&E senior vice president of customer experience, said, “Sharing simple solutions can help our customers manage their energy use and save money. Switching to the lowest-cost rate plan is as easy as 1-2-3. Log into your online account, compare rate plans using the online tool and select the lowest-cost plan for you.”
PG&E has stated that there will be no additional electric rate increases for the remainder of 2025. The utility expects combined residential gas and electric bills to remain steady through this year, with a decrease projected in 2026.
Despite overall stable yearly bills since early 2024, PG&E notes that higher summer energy use—especially for cooling—could result in increased monthly charges. The company suggests that ensuring enrollment in the lowest-cost rate can help offset these seasonal spikes.
Customers who opt for a lower-cost rate do not need to alter how they use energy to see savings. The Rate Comparison tool uses data from the past 12 months of each customer’s energy consumption to recommend optimal plans. Additional savings may be possible by switching to time-of-use rates and shifting some activities to off-peak hours when demand is lower.
A recent analysis focused on Fresno County—a region known for high temperatures—showed significant potential savings. According to PG&E’s review of local residential accounts over a year-long period, more than 24,800 households could collectively save $13.4 million annually by moving to their lowest-cost available rates. Most reviewed accounts could reduce annual costs by over $300; some might save up to $1,000 per year.
The analysis found about 70% of Fresno County customers would benefit financially by leaving the E-1 tiered rate structure—which charges more per unit as usage increases—and adopting time-of-use pricing instead.
PG&E also provides an annual rate comparison notice for all eligible residential customers during their service anniversary month.
In addition to changing rates, PG&E offers various tools designed to help consumers monitor and manage energy expenses at little or no cost. Financial assistance programs are also available for those struggling with payments.
PG&E serves more than sixteen million people across Northern and Central California through its combined natural gas and electric utility services. More information is available at pge.com and pge.com/news.
For further details on this announcement: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/compare-and-save-switching-rate-plan-may-lower-pge-customers-bills-302500503.html
