California, September 27, 2025
News Summary
California is set to provide over $700 million in electric bill refunds to more than 11.5 million households through the California Climate Credit program starting in October 2025. Each household can expect an average credit of approximately $61, with amounts ranging from $35 to $259. This initiative also includes about $60 million in support for qualifying small businesses. It aims to address climate change while promoting sustainability across the state. With additional credits planned until 2045, California has already seen a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
California is set to provide over $700 million in electric bill refunds to more than 11.5 million households through the California Climate Credit program, starting in October 2025. Each residential customer is expected to receive an average credit amount of approximately $61, with refunds ranging from $35 to $259. Most households can anticipate refunds between $56 and $81.
In addition to residential credits, qualifying small businesses will benefit from the program, receiving approximately $60 million in total. This initiative is part of California’s effort to combat climate change and promote sustainability practices across the state.
In April 2025, households had received a similar credit, which means that the average total refund for customers in 2025 is projected to reach $198. Recent legislation signed into effect aims to increase future credits, allocating up to $60 billion to the electric Climate Credit through 2045. Though specific amounts for future refunds are yet to be detailed, state officials anticipate increases beginning next year as part of the legislative changes.
The refunds are made possible by California’s Cap-and-Invest Program, overseen by the California Air Resources Board. This program not only facilitates refunds to residents but also earmarks funding for climate initiatives, including various projects that promote affordable housing near job centers, high-speed rail development, and advancements in zero-emission transportation initiatives, particularly in underserved communities.
As a result of these efforts, California has created over 120,000 jobs and achieved a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions, amounting to a 20% decrease since the year 2000. Notably, the state’s GDP has grown by 78% during this time, highlighting its role as the world’s fourth-largest economy. In 2023, two-thirds of California’s electricity was sourced from clean energy, with the power grid operating on 100% clean energy for parts of nearly every day of the year.
The California Climate Credit program has successfully distributed a total of $14.6 billion in electric bill refunds to residential utility customers since its inception in 2014. Refunds from this program are automatically credited to eligible customers’ bills twice a year, in April and October, for residential customers of Pacific Gas and Electric, San Diego Gas & Electric, Southern California Gas Company, and Southwest Gas. Customers who do not notice the credited amount on their bills are encouraged to reach out to their utility provider for clarification.
Key Features of the California Climate Credit Program
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Refund Amounts | Residential credits range from $35 to $259, with an average refund of approximately $61. |
| Eligibility | Over 11.5 million households, plus qualifying small businesses. |
| Total Refunds | Exceeds $700 million for October 2025. |
| Future Provisions | Up to $60 billion allocated through new legislation for future credits until 2045. |
| Environmental Impact | 20% reduction in greenhouse gases since 2000 and over 120,000 jobs created. |
| Clean Energy Usage | Two-thirds of electricity from clean energy in 2023. |
FAQ
How much will California households receive in refunds in October 2025?
Households will receive automatic refunds on their October electric bills through the California Climate Credit program, totaling over $700 million, with the average credit amount per household approximately $61.
What is the range of refund amounts for California households?
Refund amounts range from $35 to $259, with most households expected to receive between $56 and $81.
What program is managing the California Climate Credit?
The refunds are part of California’s Cap-and-Invest Program, managed by the California Air Resources Board.
When do the refunds occur for eligible customers?
Refunds from the California Climate Credit program occur twice a year, in April and October, and are automatically credited to eligible customers’ bills.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Fox40 News
- Wikipedia: California
- Los Angeles Times
- Google Search: California Climate Credit
- KSBY News
- Google Scholar: California electricity refunds
- LAist
- Encyclopedia Britannica: California Climate Credit
- Palisades News
- Google News: California electricity refunds
Author: STAFF HERE HUNTINGTON BEACH
The Huntington Beach Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Huntington Beach, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Huntington Beach Surf City USA Marathon, the U.S. Open of Surfing, Fourth of July celebrations at the Huntington Beach Pier, and community festivals at Huntington Beach Central Park. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Huntington Beach Chamber of Commerce and Visit Huntington Beach, plus leading businesses in retail, hospitality, and outdoor recreation that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERESantaAna.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
