According to a report by Newsweek, Pacific Gas and Electric (PG&E) has expanded its Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH) program to include middle-class families. This new phase of the program allows households earning up to $156,000 annually to benefit from the assistance.
Announced on Wednesday, the expansion aims to provide crucial support during a period of extreme heat, particularly in the Central Valley, where residents are facing higher energy costs. PG&E spokesperson James Smith highlighted the situation: βWith temperatures frequently exceeding 110 degrees, many people are running their air conditioners more often, which increases their overall energy bills.β
Recent rate hikes in January and March have further exacerbated the financial burden for PG&E customers in the Central Valley. The expanded REACH program is a response to these increases, as Smith explained, βThe tiered rate structure means that the more energy customers use, the more expensive it becomes as they move from tier to tier.β
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The REACH program is designed to help low- to moderate-income households manage their past-due energy bills and prevent service disconnections. Under the new expansion, eligible customers who are behind on their bills can receive up to $2,000 in credit.
To qualify for REACH, households must have a residential utility account with PG&E, the account must be in the name of an adult resident, and proof of income must meet the programβs guidelines. For the REACH Triple Match program, households must have a minimum past-due balance of $200, apply before making a payment, and ensure their past-due bill payment is made within 15 days of applying. Additionally, they must not have received REACH assistance in the past 12 months and must provide income verification that meets the program’s requirements.
The programβs expansion is set to benefit families of four with annual incomes below $156,000, offering much-needed relief during challenging times.
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