The Tool Lending Library is a free program that gives PG&E customers access to a wide range of professional‑grade energy and building‑performance tools that help businesses detect air and gas leaks, identify insulation gaps, assess equipment performance, and uncover inefficiencies that can quietly increase operating costs. PG&E image

For small and medium-sized businesses across the Central Valley, managing energy costs isn’t just about keeping the lights on — it’s about staying competitive, operating efficiently, and planning for long‑term growth. At PG&E, we partner with local businesses every day to help them use energy more effectively and reinvest savings where they matter most. One of the most practical — and often overlooked — resources available to support that work is the PG&E Energy Centers Tool Lending Library.

A No‑Cost Resource for High‑Value Tools

The Tool Lending Library is a free program that gives PG&E customers access to a wide range of professional‑grade energy and building‑performance tools. These instruments help businesses detect air and gas leaks, identify insulation gaps, assess equipment performance and uncover inefficiencies that can quietly increase operating costs. While the program is open to all customers, it is especially valuable for non‑residential users such as manufacturers, restaurants, wineries, industrial facilities and commercial offices.

What sets this program apart is the quality — and cost — of the equipment available. Some tools in the library retail for more than $15,000. For many businesses, purchasing specialized equipment that may only be used occasionally isn’t practical. Through PG&E’s Tool Lending Library, customers can borrow these tools at no cost, complete targeted assessments, and return them without taking on additional financial risk.

Turning Small Improvements Into Meaningful Savings

For food manufacturers and other industrial customers, even modest efficiency improvements — such as identifying compressed air leaks or optimizing equipment performance — can translate into measurable energy savings and improved reliability. Access to advanced diagnostic tools helps businesses pinpoint issues quickly and make informed decisions that support both operational performance and cost control.

Simple Access, Expert Support

The Tool Lending Library supports projects focused on energy efficiency, demand reduction, demand response, and electrification across California. Getting started is straightforward: customers log in or create an account, submit a brief project description, and browse the online inventory. For those unsure which tools best fit their needs, PG&E’s tool lending team offers guidance on tool selection, step‑by‑step instructions, and support with interpreting results.

Once a reservation is submitted, PG&E reviews the request and confirms availability. Tools can be picked up at the Energy Center in San Ramon or shipped at the customer’s expense. Returns are scheduled in advance to ensure a smooth process.

A Partner in Efficiency and Growth

For Central Valley businesses, the Tool Lending Library reflects PG&E’s commitment to being more than an energy provider. We aim to be a trusted partner — offering practical resources and hands‑on support that help local businesses operate more efficiently, manage costs, and build a more resilient energy future.

You can learn more about our tool lending program at www.pge.com/tools or contact a local coordinator at pectools@pge.com to schedule a virtual tour of the lending library.

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Josh Simes is vice president, PG&E Central Valley Region.