PG&E offers a suite of programs designed to reduce costs.

The Central Valley is booming — and Pacific Gas and Electric Company (PG&E) is doing more than just keeping the lights on. It’s helping small and medium businesses grow, save and succeed.

With over 39,000 small and medium business customers in Fresno, Madera and Kern Counties, PG&E is deeply invested in the region’s economic vitality. In just the past three years, these businesses have saved more than 1.2 million kilowatt-hours of energy and received over $2.3 million in energy efficiency incentives through PG&E’s rebate and financing programs.

Personalized Support from Day One

PG&E’s Small Business Engagement (SBE) Team is the heartbeat of its local outreach. From personalized calls to regional campaigns and partnerships, the team ensures businesses know about every available resource.

Support begins early with PG&E’s Welcome Series — a proactive initiative where SBE representatives reach out to new business owners within the first six weeks of service. The goal? Help them take control of their energy use from day one.

“This early outreach is more than just connecting a business to the grid,” said Joshua Simes, Vice President for PG&E’s Central Valley region. “It’s about building trust and showing business owners we’re here to help them succeed long-term.”

Tools That Deliver Real Savings

PG&E offers a suite of programs designed to reduce costs and improve operational efficiency:

• Thrive: A no-cost operational assessment that identifies ways to cut expenses, boost energy efficiency, and enhance comfort for employees and customers.
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• Rate Analysis Tool: Helps businesses find the most cost-effective electric rate plan. In 2024 alone, PG&E’s targeted campaigns saved small business customers $5.4 million.
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• On-Bill Financing (OBF): Interest-free loans for energy-efficient upgrades, repaid through monthly PG&E bills—often offset by the energy savings.
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• Customer Energy Efficiency (CEE) Rebates: Financial incentives for upgrading to energy-efficient equipment.
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These tools aren’t just theoretical—they’re delivering measurable results. For example:

“We saved $31,000 annually at one location just by switching to the best rate plan for our operations. It didn’t cost us time or money,” said Elizabeth Carranza of Setton Farms in Terra Bella, CA.

“By updating our rate plan, we reduced our annual energy bill by 15%—that’s $10,000 in savings,” said Johna Calandra of Woods Family Farms in Kingsburg, CA.

Programs for Long-Term Growth

PG&E continues to innovate with programs tailored to the unique needs of small businesses:

• Simplified Savings Program: Free energy assessments and upgrades for businesses in disadvantaged communities.
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• Food Service Equipment Rebates: Save money and boost productivity with energy-efficient upgrades.
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• Food Service Technology Center: Access training, design consulting, and test kitchen plans to improve operations.
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• Budget Billing: Smooth out seasonal spikes by averaging monthly payments.
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• Economic Development Rate: Offers eligible businesses up to 12% off electric rates to support job growth and retention in California.
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Campaign Highlights

PG&E’s Optimal Rate campaigns have made a significant impact:

Year	Customers Engaged	Savings Delivered	Customer Satisfaction
2023	5,000 (3,000 Ag)	$9.2 million	Avg. score: 9.9
2024	2,000 (1,000 Ag)	$5.4 million	Avg. Score: 9.7

A Commitment to Community

Small businesses make up 99% of PG&E’s commercial customer base—over 300,000 accounts. PG&E’s mission is clear: provide local solutions, innovative tools, and lasting support.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our communities,” said Simes. “We’re proud to support them with tailored energy solutions, cost-saving programs, and local partnerships. Our goal is to make energy more affordable, reliable, and accessible.”

To explore PG&E’s small business resources, visit pge.com/smbsupport.