DOWNEY - More low-income Southern California Gas Co. customers are eligible to save 20 percent on their monthly natural gas bill and receive no-cost energy efficient home improvements as a result of updated income guidelines for state-sponsored assistance programs.The CARE program (California Alternate Rates for Energy) provides a 20 percent rate discount on the monthly natural gas bill for eligible households. Those who qualify and are approved within 90 days of starting new gas service will also receive a $15 discount on the service establishment charge. The Energy Savings Assistance Program provides no-cost energy efficient home improvements to income-qualified renters and homeowners. Services include door weather stripping and caulking to keep unwanted drafts out of the home; attic insulation to help the home stay cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter; low-flow showerheads that can save energy used to heat water; furnace replacement (owner occupied only); high-efficiency clothes washers; and other minor home repairs. "So Cal Gas is committed to enrolling as many eligible customers as possible into our assistance programs," said Rodger Schwecke, vice president of customer solutions for the Gas Co. "Together with our community partners, we engage in continuous outreach to help ensure our customers know about the many assistance programs available to help them in difficult economic times." To learn about the programs, or to apply, go online to socalgas.com.

********** Published: June 27, 2013 - Volume 12 - Issue 11