California utility customers receive $142 bill credits in April

Utility customers in California will receive discounts on their electric and gas bills in April. Southern California Edison customers will see a $56 credit on their electric bills. Southern California Gas customers will receive an $86.60 reduction on their gas bills. These credits are part of the California Climate Credit program. This program uses funds from the state’s cap and trade initiative. This initiative requires companies that produce greenhouse gases to purchase permits. The program is managed by the California Public Utilities Commission and affects several utilities in the state. Residential electricity customers get these credits twice a year, in spring and fall. The next credit for Southern California Edison customers will be in October. The cash amounts depend on the program's revenue each year. The discounts are automatic, so customers do not need to apply for them. However, billing cycles vary, so not everyone will see the credit at the same time in April. Community choice energy program customers will also receive these discounts. Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the program, noting it has funded $28 billion in climate investments since its start in 2014. While the average credit across all utilities is $137, some residents are unhappy with the small amount, especially given the high cost of electricity in California. Many social media users expressed frustration, stating that the credit does not significantly reduce their overall bills.