Frequently Asked Questions

Eligibility is based primarily on your location, utility provider, and homeowner status. Some programs also consider your average monthly energy bill or household income (for CARE/FERA). The quickest way to find out is to use our Eligibility Check tool, which takes less than a minute.

The California Energy Relief Program (CERP) facilitates access to various state, federal, and utility-sponsored programs. While we connect you to official government incentives (like SGIP or Federal Tax Credits) and utility rebates, CERP itself is an independent program facilitator, not a government agency.

Most major infrastructure programs (like solar, battery storage, or window upgrades) require you to be the homeowner. However, programs like CARE, FERA, and certain appliance rebates are available to renters as well.

No. You will keep your current utility provider (e.g., PG&E, SCE, SDG&E, or LADWP). These programs are designed to work with your existing utility to lower your bill and improve efficiency.

It depends on the program. Many programs, such as the Home Solar Ownership Program (`bill-swap` models) or income-qualified weatherization, have $0 upfront cost. Others, like appliance rebates, work by refunding you a portion of the purchase price.

Both options exist. Some programs are direct grants or rebates (money you don't pay back). Others are low-interest financing plans (like REEL-in) designed to be paid for by your energy savings. We will clearly outline the type of funding you qualify for.

Savings vary by household. Families on the CARE program save 30-35% instantly. Solar ownership programs often reduce electricity bills by 40-70%. We estimate your potential savings during the eligibility review.

Once you submit your initial information, we typically verify eligibility within 24-48 hours. Installation-based programs (like solar or windows) can take several weeks to permit and schedule, while rate plan changes can take effect in 1-2 billing cycles.

To start, we just need your basic contact info and approximate bill amount. Later, you may need to provide a recent utility bill to verify usage history and finalize your program selection.

Yes! You may still qualify for battery storage incentives (SGIP), smart thermostat rebates, or efficiency upgrades (windows/insulation) that can further reduce your remaining true-up bill.