Core Insights - The article discusses the impact of "energy vampires" or devices that consume electricity even when not in active use, contributing significantly to monthly energy bills and global carbon emissions [2][3]. Group 1: Energy Consumption and Savings - Idle loads can account for up to 10% of a typical household's electric bill and are responsible for approximately 1% of global carbon emissions [3]. - The average household may incur costs of up to $100 annually due to these always-on devices, depending on energy usage and location [3]. - A proactive approach can reduce standby power use by about 20% [4]. Group 2: Energy Efficiency Strategies - Customers can build an Energy Efficiency DIY Toolkit to save hundreds of dollars each year through investments in energy-efficient materials [5]. - Recommendations for reducing energy consumption include unplugging devices when not in use, using smart power strips, turning off lights when leaving a room, and upgrading to Energy Star® certified appliances [7]. - PG&E offers free online tools such as Home Energy Checkup and Energy Action Guide to assist customers in managing their energy use [7]. Group 3: Support Programs - PG&E provides programs like HomeIntel, which includes a free Smart Audit account and personal energy coaching for customers with Smart Meters [7]. - Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) offers energy-saving improvements at no charge for income-eligible customers [12]. - GoGreen Financing is available for affordable financing of energy efficiency upgrades to help homeowners and renters reduce energy use [12].

Core Insights - PG&E encourages customers to check their rate plans to potentially lower their energy bills without changing their energy usage [1][3] - The company forecasts stable residential gas and electric bills for the remainder of 2025, with a decrease expected in 2026 [2] - A significant number of customers in Fresno County could save a total of $13.4 million annually by switching to the lowest-cost rate [6][7] Rate Plans and Savings - Customers can use PG&E's Rate Comparison tool to find the lowest-cost rate based on their last 12 months of energy usage [3][4] - Over 70% of Fresno County customers could save by moving off the E-1 tiered rate, which charges higher prices for increased energy usage [7] - Customers may achieve additional savings by switching to time-of-use rates and using energy during off-peak hours [4][8] Customer Support and Tools - PG&E offers various tools to help customers manage their energy costs, including Budget Billing, Home Energy Checkup, and Savings Finder [9][10] - Financial assistance programs are available for customers struggling to pay their energy bills [10]