CARE/FERA, Medical Baseline Rate Freeze, a COVID-19 Relief Effort, Winds Down

In May 2020, the Clean Power Alliance Board of Directors voted to temporarily freeze rates for customers on the CARE, FERA and Medical Baseline financial assistance programs.

The freeze was implemented as part of CPA’s COVID-19 relief effort to protect vulnerable customers during a quickly evolving economic crisis with unprecedented impacts to employment and financial wellbeing.

As California has made strides in pandemic recovery, the board voted to end the temporary rate freeze for CARE, FERA and Medical Baseline customers as of October 1, 2022. Standard CARE, FERA and Baseline Medical rates with their typical discounts have resumed for customers.

Since 2020, CPA invested more than $27 million in subsidies to support our most vulnerable customers through:

Rate freeze – $10.1 million in benefits to CARE, FERA and Medical Baseline rate customers who did not have an increase in electricity generation rates since the freeze was implemented.

Bill credits – $2 million spent to support customers experiencing challenges paying their electric bill.

The California Arrearage Payment Program (CAPP) – $15.8 million in bill credits to assist eligible customers who have fallen behind on their electric bill.

Additionally, CPA has provided equitable access to renewable energy to customers on CARE, FERA and Medical Baseline assistance programs. These customers located in communities with 100% Green Power as the default energy option will continue to receive 100% Green Power at the lower Clean Power rate

Customers were notified of the sunsetting of the subsidy through bill messages that will continue to run through the end of the year and targeted social media outreach. Customers still in need of additional help have also been directed to information about CPA’s numerous financial assistance programs here.

Mark Hum

Mark Hum serves as Senior Associate, Communications and Marketing at Clean Power Alliance. He is a marketing and communications strategist with a background in medtech and life sciences, where he supported initiatives spanning multiple industries across both B2B and consumer-facing brands. His work is grounded in a copywriter’s mindset, starting with audience needs and translating complex ideas into clear, compelling stories that build trust and understanding. Mark has led integrated communications across digital, social, email, web, and stakeholder channels, with an emphasis on accessibility, consistency, and measurable impact. He brings a strong appreciation for structure and narrative, ensuring that every message serves a purpose and connects with people in a meaningful way. Mark holds a Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from California State University, Long Beach (CSULB).

Pom Saengxuto

Prapassara “Pom” Saengxuto serves as Finance and Accounting Analyst at CPA. She is a Certified Public Accountant with over 20 years of experience in accounting and finance. Throughout her career, she has worked across a wide range of industries, including public accounting, private corporations, entertainment, manufacturing, consulting and construction. This diverse background allows her to bring a well-rounded and practical perspective to every engagement. Pom is known for her strong dedication, attention to detail, and commitment to accuracy. She works effectively both independently and as part of a team, consistently supporting organizations in making informed, strategic financial decisions. Her approach combines technical expertise with a deep sense of responsibility and professionalism.