With the arrival and natural gas prices a third higher than last
year, PG
&
amp;E is launching a campaign to put rebate dollars in the
pockets of its customers.
With the arrival and natural gas prices a third higher than last year, PG&E is launching a campaign to put rebate dollars in the pockets of its customers.
In September, the gas bill for an average PG&E residential customer was 38 percent higher than the same time in 2002.
To combat the predicted increase in natural gas costs this winter, PG&E is offering rebates this fall on products designed to help customers reduce energy use and save money.
Rebates for residential customers include:
•Programmable Thermostat ($20 rebate),
• Natural gas furnace ($200 rebate),
• Energy efficient washer ($75 rebate),
• Energy efficient dishwasher ($50 rebate): Check with your local water utility for additional rebates.
For more information on residential rebates call the Smarter Energy Line at 1-800-933-9555 or visit www.pge.com/foryourhome.
Programs for business customers include:
• Energy surveys: Identify exactly how your business is using natural gas and how to effectively manage your consumption and costs. PG&E’s audit tools provide energy-saving tips and recommendations on rebate programs.
• Express Efficiency rebate program
• Standard performance contract.
For more information on business rebates call the Business Customer Center at 1-800-468-4743 or visit http://www.pge.com/foryourbusiness.
PG&E does not mark up the cost of natural gas but instead passes on the wholesale costs directly to consumers. This eliminates middlemen and ensures that customers are paying a price that accurately reflects the true cost of the natural gas. PG&E employs a variety of methods to ensure it buys gas at the lowest cost and passes those savings on to its customers.
However, when natural gas prices are high nationwide, as they are now because the growing demand for gas has not been matched by increased production, consumers’ bills will reflect those higher costs.
Consumers can take these steps to reduce their natural gas usage and save money, including:
• Set furnace thermostat at 68 degrees or lower during the day, health permitting.
• Program furnace thermostat at 55 degrees during the night or when the home is empty for more than four hours.
• Clean or replace furnace filters monthly during the operating season.
• In winter, open drapes on sunny days to help warm the rooms.
• Do not preheat oven. When possible use your microwave.
• Close the damper when not using the fireplace.
