SoCalGas Coverage Areas, Rebates, and Outage Tools

About SoCalGas

Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) is the largest natural gas distribution utility in the United States, serving nearly 6 million residential and business customers across Southern California. Additionally, their gas transmission network provides natural gas to nearly 21 million consumers. With a history spanning over 150 years, SoCalGas is committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable natural gas services while leading the way toward a cleaner energy future.

As a regulated utility, SoCalGas delivers natural gas to homes and businesses, maintains pipelines, and ensures safe, reliable service. However, in California, customers have the option to choose their own retail natural gas provider (RNGP), giving you more control over where your gas comes from and how much you pay.

SoCalGas Coverage Areas & Deregulation

SoCalGas’s service territory encompasses 12 counties and 220 incorporated cities, including major areas like Los Angeles, Riverside, San Bernardino, Ventura, and Orange counties. However, it excludes the city of Long Beach and San Diego County.

In California, natural gas deregulation allows consumers in SoCalGas’s service area to choose their natural gas supplier. This means you can opt for a third-party supplier for the gas commodity, while SoCalGas continues to deliver it through its infrastructure .

Choosing a Retail Natural Gas Provider

Opting for a third-party natural gas supplier can offer:

• Lower rates: Some providers offer rates that are lower, meaning your home can save on it’s natural gas bill.
• Price Stability: Fixed rate plans allow you to lock in rates to protect against market fluctuations.
• Customized Plans: Choose plans that align with your usage patterns.
• Green Options: Some suppliers offer higher percentages of RNG, supporting environmental goals.

Top Retail Natural Gas Providers

While SoCalGas provides a list of registered suppliers for noncore customers , it’s essential to research and compare options. Here’s a comparison table of some notable suppliers:

Provider	Plan Types	Renewable Options	Contract Terms	Monthly Fees	Key Features
IGS Energy	Fixed-rate	Carbon-neutral natural gas at no extra cost	Typically 12 months	Varies	Offers home warranty plans, solar options, and community solar programs
Spark Energy	Fixed-rate	100% renewable natural gas plans available	6, 12, and 24 months	$4.95/month	Transparent pricing with no hidden fees, established since 1999
XOOM Energy	Fixed and variable-rate	Carbon offset plans	Flexible terms	No enrollment fees	Offers budget billing, seamless switching with no service interruption

*Plans and providers may vary by location. Search your ZIP code to find providers available in your area.

Things to Consider When Switching

Pricing Structure: Determine whether a fixed or variable rate plan suits your budget and risk tolerance. Fixed rates offer stability, while variable rates can fluctuate with market conditions.

Renewable Energy Options: If environmental impact is a concern, look for providers offering carbon-neutral or 100% renewable natural gas plans.

Contract Length and Terms: Review the duration of the contract and any early termination fees. Longer contracts may offer better rates but less flexibility.

Monthly Fees: Be aware of any additional monthly charges that may apply, as these can affect the overall cost.

Customer Service and Support: Consider the provider’s reputation for customer service, as responsive support can be valuable for addressing any issues that arise.

Additional Services: Some providers offer extra services like home warranties or energy efficiency programs, which may add value to your plan.

How to Report Outages

If you suspect a natural gas leak:

• Evacuate Immediately: Leave the area promptly.
• Call SoCalGas: From a safe location, dial 1-800-427-2200.
• Call 911: If there’s immediate danger to life or property.

For non-emergency inquiries, you can contact SoCalGas customer service at 1-877-238-0092.

How to Check for Gas Outages

SoCalGas makes it easy to stay informed about service disruptions. You can:

• Visit their Outage Map for real-time updates.
• Call 1-800-427-2200 to report or check on outages.
• Sign up for alerts via text or email for your area.
• Check the app to monitor outages

SoCalGas Mobile App

The SoCalGas mobile app offers convenient features:

• Bill Payment: Pay your gas bills securely.
• Usage Monitoring: Track your natural gas consumption.
• Payment History: View past payments.
• CNG Station Locator: Find the nearest Compressed Natural Gas refueling stations.
• Outages: Check for and report outages.

Available for download on iOS and Android devices.

Rebates, Discounts, and Incentives from SoCalGas

SoCalGas offers various programs to help customers save:

• Energy-Efficient Appliance Rebates: Receive rebates on qualifying appliances like dryers, water heaters, and thermostats .
• Solar Thermal Water Heating: Get $2,500 to $5,000 back on ENERGY STAR certified systems with natural gas backup .
• Business Incentives: Customized incentives for businesses upgrading to high-efficiency equipment.
• Smart thermostat rebates: Optimize your heating and cooling and save money at the same time.

Explore more savings opportunities at the SoCalGas Marketplace.

Where Does SoCalGas Get Its Energy?

SoCalGas sources natural gas from various suppliers and stores it in facilities like Aliso Canyon, which plays a crucial role in meeting peak demand in the Los Angeles Basin.

The company is also investing in Renewable Natural Gas (RNG), aiming to replace 20% of its traditional natural gas supply with RNG by 2030. RNG is produced from organic waste materials like food scraps, yard waste, and agricultural residues, contributing to a more sustainable energy mix.

SoCalGas’s Commitment to RNG

In 2019, SoCalGas set a benchmark to deliver 20% RNG to its core customers by 2030. This initiative is part of the company’s broader ASPIRE 2045 strategy, aiming for net-zero greenhouse gas emissions in its operations and energy delivery by 2045. To achieve this, SoCalGas is investing in RNG procurement and infrastructure, including the development of interconnection points to facilitate the injection of RNG into its pipeline system.

A notable step in this direction is SoCalGas’s first RNG procurement contract approved under California’s renewable gas standard, SB 1440. This contract involves sourcing RNG from a project in San Bernardino, where organic waste will be processed to produce RNG for SoCalGas’s pipeline system. The project is expected to commence supply in the second half of 2026.

Environmental Impact and Benefits

The integration of RNG into SoCalGas’s supply chain offers several environmental benefits:

• Methane Emission Reduction: By capturing methane from organic waste, RNG production prevents this potent greenhouse gas from entering the atmosphere.
• Waste Diversion: Utilizing organic waste for RNG production reduces the volume of waste sent to landfills.
• Renewable Energy Source: RNG provides a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, contributing to a diversified and resilient energy portfolio.

These efforts support California’s goal to reduce methane emissions by 40% by 2030, as outlined in state legislation.

Looking Ahead

SoCalGas’s commitment to RNG is a significant component of its strategy to provide cleaner energy solutions while leveraging existing infrastructure. By investing in RNG, the company aims to offer its customers a more sustainable energy option, contributing to environmental conservation and the state’s climate goals.

Considering a switch to a different energy provider? It’s essential to assess your energy needs, compare available options, and understand the terms and benefits each provider offers. SoCalGas’s commitment to reliability, sustainability, and customer service makes it a strong contender, but exploring all available choices ensures you find the best fit for your household or business.

FAQs About SoCalGas