Active ProgramLast verified: 2026-07-19

PG&E Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program — Free Home Upgrades

Save up to

Free (no cost — up to $5,000+ in upgrades)

Provider

Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E)

The PG&E Energy Savings Assistance (ESA) Program provides completely FREE energy-efficient home upgrades to income-qualified PG&E customers. This includes weather-stripping, attic insulation, duct sealing, water heater repair or replacement, smart thermostats, furnace repair or replacement, refrigerator replacement (if 15+ years old), faucet aerators, and low-flow showerheads. There is ZERO cost to qualifying households — PG&E covers everything including labor and materials. This is one of the most underutilized programs available.

✓Must be a PG&E residential customer
✓Household income at or below 200% of federal poverty guidelines
✓OR currently enrolled in CARE or FERA programs
✓OR participating in CalFresh, Medi-Cal, LIHEAP, CalWORKs, or similar programs
✓Must schedule a free home energy assessment (PG&E sends an assessor to your home)
✓Proof of income required unless enrolled in qualifying programs
✓Available for renters too (with landlord permission for certain upgrades)

How to Apply

1Call PG&E at 1-800-933-9555 or apply online at pge.com/esa
2Schedule your free home energy assessment — PG&E sends a trained assessor
3Assessor evaluates your home and identifies all qualifying upgrades
4All qualifying work is scheduled and performed at NO COST to you
5Typical upgrades include: insulation, duct sealing, weather-stripping, water heater, furnace, refrigerator
6No application fee, no cost-sharing, no loan — everything is 100% free

Qualifying Equipment & Services

●Attic insulation (blown-in fiberglass or cellulose)
●Duct sealing and duct repair
●Weather-stripping for doors and windows
●Water heater repair or replacement
●Furnace repair or replacement
●Smart thermostat installation
●Refrigerator replacement (if 15+ years old)
●Faucet aerators and low-flow showerheads
●Window and door repair/weatherization
●LED lighting upgrades

Related Services

HVAC Maintenance Water Heater Installation Ductwork

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the ESA program really 100% free?+

Yes — there is absolutely no cost to qualifying households. PG&E covers all materials, labor, and equipment. There are no loans, no cost-sharing, and no repayment. This is a ratepayer-funded program designed to reduce energy burden for low-income customers.

What income level qualifies for ESA?+

Your household income must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty level. For 2026, that's approximately: 1 person: $30,120, 2 people: $40,880, 3 people: $51,640, 4 people: $62,400. If you're enrolled in CARE, FERA, CalFresh, or Medi-Cal, you automatically qualify.

Can renters qualify for ESA?+

Yes! Renters with PG&E accounts can qualify. Some upgrades (like a new furnace or water heater) may require landlord permission, but many improvements (weather-stripping, aerators, LEDs) can be done regardless. PG&E handles landlord coordination.

How long does the ESA process take?+

From application to completed upgrades is typically 4-8 weeks. The home assessment takes about 1-2 hours. Installation is scheduled within 2-4 weeks of assessment. Major items (furnace, water heater) may take slightly longer.

Will this reduce my energy bills?+

Yes — typical ESA participants see 10-30% reduction in energy bills after upgrades. Insulation, duct sealing, and a new furnace can save $200-$600 per year. The program also helps your home stay more comfortable year-round.