This September, your utility bill might look different for many. California residents will see the second time this year of an extra item on their bills entitled California Climate Credit, which in effect, is a reduction off your gas and electric charges.
The California Climate Credit is a direct result of the State’s cap-and-trade program. This program is meant to reduce climate pollution from the state’s largest polluters. The first wave of climate credits were dispersed in April , and it is set to disperse again this month. In more than half of California, credits will continue to be distributed in August and September in the following years to offset peak summer cooling costs.
There is no need to sign up to receive the credit, and it will be applied to your bills automatically. Because billing periods can vary, the climate credit may not always coincide with the calendar month. If there is no credit applied to your statement by the end of September, it should be present in your October or November bills.
| COMPANY | CREDIT | DISBURSEMENT 1 | DISBURSEMENT 2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern California Edison (SCE) | $36.00 | August | September |
| San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E) | $49.36 | August | September |
| Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) | $36.18 | August | September |
| Liberty Utilities | $71.98 | April | November |
| Pacific Power | $111.83 | April | November |
| Bear Valley Electric Service | $17.52 | April | November |
The amount of the credit will fluctuate depending on who your utility provider is. The following is a list of common providers and how much you can expect to see on your bill.
Residential Natural Gas Credit: Distributed in April 2026 but will be shifting permanently to February starting in 2027 when winter heating demand is typically highest. ■
Source: California Public Utilities Commission
