Struggling With Rising Costs? California Will Credit Your Power Bill in October 2025
- Author: Jeannie Dare
- Posted: 2025-10-02
California households will see a bit of relief in October 2025 as electricity bill refunds arrive, offering much-needed support during a time of rising costs, inflation pressures, and government shutdown concerns.
You might be missing out on benefits, check what’s available to you here!
How Much Can You Expect?
More than 11.5 million residential customers will automatically receive the California Climate Credit, funded by fees paid by major polluting companies.
The typical refund for October will be about $61, though amounts vary widely by utility provider:
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Pacific Power: about $259
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San Diego Gas & Electric (SDG&E): about $81
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Southern California Edison: about $56
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PG&E: just over $58
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Smaller utilities (Bear Valley Electric, Liberty Utilities): $34–$63
Combined with the spring payout, most households will have received nearly $200 in relief during 2025.
Read: Full List of States Sending Rebates, Credits, and Direct Payments in October 2025
Why Is California Issuing These Refunds?
The refunds stem from the state’s Cap-and-Invest program, which charges oil companies and other major polluters for their emissions. Twice a year, part of that revenue is returned to residents in the form of bill credits. Unlike some federal benefits that require applications, this assistance is automatic for eligible households.
Why It Matters Now
Electric bills in California have skyrocketed by as much as 67% since 2019, compounding the financial strain of inflation, housing costs, and food prices.
While a $61 credit won’t eliminate these challenges, it provides temporary assistance to households trying to stretch their budgets.
Related: State-by-State Unemployment Benefits Guide for Workers Affected by the Government Shutdown
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For families, an $81 SDG&E credit could cover several days’ worth of groceries.
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For seniors on fixed incomes, it could help keep the heat on as winter approaches.
These refunds arrive at a time when uncertainty from the federal government shutdown may cause delays in other forms of support.
Having a guaranteed credit on utility bills gives families a small but timely cushion.
Looking Ahead
The Governor’s office projects that the Climate Credit program will expand, potentially returning up to $60 billion by 2045 as California ramps up its climate policies.
That means larger credits, and greater household relief, in the future.
For now, these October refunds represent a modest but crucial lifeline for millions facing the dual squeeze of inflation and rising costs in a period of national financial uncertainty.
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