- PG&E serves most of Northern and Central California, making it the default utility provider for electricity and natural gas in many regions.
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As of 2023, 100% of PG&E’s delivered electricity is greenhouse gas–free, with a strong focus on renewables, nuclear, and hydro.
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While electricity supply is fixed, residential customers can choose from third-party natural gas suppliers for competitive pricing and fixed-rate plans.
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PG&E offers energy-saving rebates, backup power incentives, and digital tools like the Report It app to support safety and efficiency.
About PG&E
Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) is one of the largest utility companies in the United States, providing electric and natural gas service to more than 16 million people across Northern and Central California. Founded in 1905 and headquartered in Oakland, PG&E has been a cornerstone of California’s energy infrastructure for over a century. The company is actively modernizing the grid, investing in wildfire prevention, and expanding clean energy offerings. If you’re moving to the area, PG&E will likely be your primary utility provider.
PG&E’s Service Area & Deregulation
PG&E’s electric and gas service covers a wide geographic region across Northern and Central California, including urban centers like San Francisco, Sacramento, San Jose, and Fresno, as well as many rural communities. In California’s partially deregulated energy market, electricity delivery remains with PG&E. Natural gas, however, is more flexible, giving residential customers the option to choose their supplier.
Service Area Highlights:
- Covers 70,000 square miles of Northern and Central California
- Serves over 5.2 million electric and 4.5 million gas customers
- Major cities: San Francisco, Oakland, Sacramento, Fresno, San Jose
Choosing a Retail Natural Gas Provider (RNGP)
If you’re within PG&E’s natural gas service area, you have the option to purchase your gas from a certified third-party provider. These are called Retail Natural Gas Providers (RNGP), and they can offer fixed-rate plans, renewable gas options, or potentially lower prices than PG&E’s default supply rates.
Why Consider a RNGP?
- Lock in a fixed rate for budget certainty
- Shop for better rates than PG&E’s default pricing
- Support renewable natural gas if available
Compare Top RNGPs:
| Provider | Plan Highlights | Renewable/Carbon Offset Options | Key Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| PG&E | Fixed or variable rates, no alternative provider needed. Handles gas delivery. | Limited green options (focuses on electricity renewables). | Rates regulated by CPUC. |
| Just Energy | Fixed-rate plans (up to 60 months). Predict-A-Bill option for stable billing. | Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) via JustGreen add-ons. | Early termination fee ($50); plans may include carbon offsets. |
| XOOM Energy | Fixed-rate, variable-rate, and TruEco® carbon offset plans. No enrollment fees. | Offsets 100% of natural gas emissions via TruEco®. | Seamless switching. |
*Providers and plans may vary by location. Search your ZIP code to see what’s available in your area.
What to Watch For:
- Contract length and early termination fees
- Whether the plan is fixed or variable
- Billing method (some bill through PG&E, others separately)
- Availability of renewable gas or carbon offsets
How to Handle Power Outages
PG&E offers a robust set of tools for tracking and reporting outages, especially important in areas prone to wildfires or storms. Whether you want to see if your area is affected or get updates on restoration timelines, their outage center makes it easy.
How to Check Outages:
- Visit pge.com/outages for a live outage map
- Search by address for real-time updates
- Sign up for outage alerts via text or email
How to Report an Outage:
- Online form: Report an Outage
- Phone: 1-800-743-5002
- For emergencies (e.g., gas leaks, downed power lines): Call 911
PG&E App & Digital Tools
While PG&E doesn’t have a full-featured account app like some other utilities, it offers helpful mobile tools for managing your service. You can track usage, report issues, and find savings recommendations.
Available Tools:
- My PG&E Toolkit Lite – Track and compare your energy usage
- Mobile-friendly site – Pay bills, view usage, manage your profile
PG&E Report It Mobile App
The PG&E Report It app is a user-friendly tool that allows customers to submit photos and descriptions of potential safety issues concerning PG&E’s electric system. By leveraging this app, you can play an active role in maintaining the safety and reliability of your community’s power supply.
Key Features:
- Report Safety Concerns: Easily report non-emergency issues such as:
- Trees or vegetation near powerlines
- Damaged or leaning power poles
- Frayed or low-hanging powerlines
- Electrical equipment that is leaking, corroded, or making unusual noises
- Submit Visual Evidence: Attach photos or a short video (up to 10 seconds) to provide clear evidence of the issue.
- Track Submissions: Receive notifications when your report is under review and when it’s resolved.
- View Community Reports: See concerns reported by others in your area to stay informed about local infrastructure issues.
How to Use the App:
- Download and Install: Available for free on iOS and Android devices.
- Create a Report:
- Open the app and tap the “Report” button.
- Provide the location of the concern either by entering an address or using your device’s GPS.
- Select the type of issue you’re reporting.
- Add photos or a video to illustrate the problem.
- Include a brief description for context.
- Submit and Monitor:
- Review your report and submit it.
- Track the status of your submission under the “My Reports” section.
- Receive updates via email or push notifications as your report is processed.
The app is intended for non-emergency situations. For emergencies like downed powerlines or gas leaks, call 9-1-1 immediately.
Rebates, Discounts & Incentives from PG&E
PG&E offers numerous programs to help customers save money, especially those interested in energy efficiency or clean transportation. These incentives are open to homeowners, renters, and businesses, and income-qualified households may receive additional benefits.
Popular Programs:
- Energy Efficiency Rebates: Save up to $3,000 on appliances, HVAC systems, smart thermostats
- Used EV Rebate: Up to $4,000 for eligible households buying pre-owned electric vehicles
- Backup Power Rebate: Up to $500 for qualifying portable battery systems
- Power Saver Rewards: Earn credits for reducing usage on peak-demand days
- EV Charging Incentives: Discounts on home chargers and special EV electricity rates.
- Income-Qualified Programs: Reduced rates for eligible households (e.g., CARE or FERA programs).
Where PG&E’s Energy Comes From
PG&E supplies energy from a mix of clean, renewable, and carbon-free sources. As of the most recent data, the majority of their electricity comes from non-emitting sources, with a strong focus on nuclear, hydroelectric, and renewable power. This aligns with California’s ambitious climate goals and helps customers reduce their carbon footprint by default.
Current Energy Mix (as of 2023):
- 53% Nuclear (Diablo Canyon)
- 34% Renewable (solar, wind, geothermal, biomass)
- 13% Large Hydropower, with dams across Northern California
*Source: https://energydigital.com/articles/pg-es-electricity-100-greenhouse-gas-free-utility-says
Clean Energy Commitment
In 2023, PG&E achieved a significant milestone by delivering 100% greenhouse gas–free electricity to its retail customers. This energy mix comprised 34% from eligible renewable resources (such as solar, wind, and small hydroelectric generation), 53% from carbon-free nuclear power generated by the Diablo Canyon Power Plant, and 13% from large hydroelectric power . This accomplishment underscores PG&E’s dedication to supporting California’s climate goals.
PG&E’s continued strategy involves a multifaceted approach:
Modernizing the Grid: PG&E is implementing advanced technologies and infrastructure upgrades to support a more resilient and efficient energy system.
Expanding Renewable Energy: PG&E has over 260 power purchase agreements for renewable energy, totaling more than 6,000 MW, and owns 430 MW of eligible renewable generation, including small hydroelectric and solar facilities.
Investing in Energy Storage: The company has surpassed 2,100 MW in battery energy storage capacity, enhancing grid reliability and facilitating the integration of intermittent renewable sources.
If you’re moving to or living in PG&E’s service area, you’re in good hands when it comes to reliable service and a strong push toward sustainability. While electricity is less flexible in terms of providers, natural gas shoppers can explore their options. PG&E also stands out for its clean energy mix and helpful rebates that make it easier to live efficiently.
FAQs About PG&E
What services does PG&E provide?
Does PG&E offer renewable energy options?
How can I lower my PG&E bill?
– Enroll in CARE or FERA (income-qualified discounts)
– Use Budget Billing to even out monthly payments
– Get rebates for energy-efficient appliances
– Switch to a time-of-use (TOU) plan if it fits your schedule
What’s the best way to pay my PG&E bill?
– Online (website or app)
– AutoPay (avoid late fees)
– Phone (1-877-704-8470)
– Mail (check/money order)
– In person (at authorized payment centers)