Paying your energy bills shouldn't be overwhelming, especially when you're doing your part to support a cleaner, solar-powered community. At Ivy, we know affordability matters. That’s why we’ve compiled a helpful guide on utility discount programs you may already qualify for — even while participating in your community’s solar program.

💡 Ivy Tip: Already enrolled in a utility discount? You might be able to keep it while on solar — check your lease and community policy to confirm.

A Quick Disclaimer

Before diving in, keep in mind that each utility and solar community has its own policies. Not all solar programs allow you to combine utility discounts with solar billing, and eligibility guidelines can change annually. Always refer to your solar lease agreement or contact your property management team for details.

💡 Ivy Tip: If you're unsure whether your solar bill reflects a discount, send us your electric bill to support@ivy.energy — we’re happy to double-check.

CARE Program 

(California Alternate Rates for Energy)

The CARE program offers one of the largest monthly bill discounts — up to 35% depending on your utility provider. Larger utilities are required to offer 30–35%, while smaller ones must offer at least 20%. Once enrolled, you’re eligible for 2 years of discounted rates (or 4 years if you’re on a fixed income), with easy renewal if you continue to qualify.

Who Can Enroll in CARE?

Eligibility is based on either participation in public assistance or income level.

Qualifying programs include:

• CalFresh / SNAP
  
  
• Medicaid / Medi-Cal
  
  
• LIHEAP
  
  
• SSI
  
  
• WIC
  
  
• NSLP
  
  
• Tribal TANF
  
  
• Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  
  

Income-based eligibility is also available. Even if you're unemployed or recently experienced a loss in income, you may still qualify. Check the latest income guidelines on the CPUC website.

💡 Ivy Tip: Keep your utility bill up to date with your name and discount line item. That’s what we use to ensure your solar rate aligns with your eligibility.

FERA Program 

(Family Electric Rate Assistance)

If you're a customer of PG&E, SDG&E, or SCE and have three or more people in your household, the FERA program may reduce your electric bill by 18%. Eligibility is based on household size and combined income, and the guidelines are updated yearly.

💡 Ivy Tip: FERA is less well-known than CARE, but if you don’t qualify for CARE, this could be a great alternative for mid-range income households.

Medical Baseline Program

If you or someone in your household depends on life-support equipment or has a qualifying medical condition, the Medical Baseline program can help reduce your monthly energy cost by billing you at the lowest possible residential rate.

Eligible equipment includes:

• Hemodialysis machines
  
  
• Electric wheelchairs
  
  
• Suction machines
  
  
• Respirators
  
  
• IPBB machines
  
  
• Electrostatic and ultrasonic nebulizers

You may also qualify if you require extra heating or cooling for medical reasons, even without specialized equipment.

💡 Ivy Tip: This discount doesn’t depend on income; it’s based on medical necessity. That makes it especially valuable for families managing long-term health conditions.

Let Ivy Know You’re Enrolled

Are you currently receiving a utility discount under CARE, FERA, or Medical Baseline? 

To ensure your solar bill reflects the right rate, send us a copy of your most recent electric bill. It must include your name and the applied discount. Email or upload your bill through your tenant portal, and we’ll confirm whether your solar charges qualify for adjustment based on your community’s policies.

💡 Ivy Tip: Even if your discount isn’t visible on your solar bill yet, sharing your utility bill helps us make sure nothing’s missed.

Conclusion

Navigating energy discounts can feel confusing, especially when you're enrolled in a solar program. But you don’t have to choose between sustainability and affordability. Programs like CARE, FERA, and Medical Baseline are here to support you, and so are we! If you think you qualify for a discount or want help reviewing your options, reach out anytime. Together, we’ll make solar work smarter for you.

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