SANTA CLARA, Santa Clara County — October 23, 2026. Some city utility customers could be eligible for discounts and may not realize they can apply. The City of Santa Clara’s municipal Rate Assistance Program (RAP) advertises savings of 25% to 40% on qualifying electricity usage for eligible customers. Its page was updated with income criteria effective June 11, 2026. Eligibility depends on the household, service account and program rules, not just the size of the bill.
How does the electric discount work?
For financially eligible customers, the city states that the discount covers 35% of the first 300 kWh of monthly electric usage and 25% of the next 500 kWh (301–800 kWh). Customers who meet LIHEAP criteria may instead receive 40% off the first 300 kWh, with the same 25% rate for the next 500 kWh. The first 800 kWh cap matters: these percentages do not automatically apply to unlimited electricity consumption or to every other fee on a utility statement.
Are there other savings?
Under the city’s current RAP guidance, qualifying applicants for Financial RAP also receive a $10 garbage-collection discount when household waste service is not shared under an ineligible common dumpster arrangement, plus a 25% reduction on eligible water and sewer charges. The water discount is limited to the first 12 hundred cubic feet of water use, and sewer discounts follow the applicable flat residential charge. Medical RAP can have different supporting requirements.
What counts as proof?
Financial eligibility uses gross household income and program rules. Applicants must provide the required documentation, and the city’s website publishes an updated table covering household sizes one through eight. Do not rely on an old image of income limits from a past year. Some Section 8 multifamily housing situations have separate documentation provisions, and medical-based eligibility may require a physician’s certification. Ask which documents can be submitted securely before sharing sensitive records.
How does a customer apply?
The city directs financial applications through Central Coast Energy Services and provides an online portal and printable forms. For assistance contact 1-888-399-2728. Residents can read the official application details before submitting private information. Avoid fee-based intermediaries claiming that everyone is guaranteed a discount.
What about the 2026 rate change?
The City Council also approved a 4% Silicon Valley Power rate adjustment effective January 2026. The city’s December 22, 2025 announcement describes this as an adopted increase, not merely a proposal. Consumers should check their actual rate schedule and whether the RAP reduction applies to their electric bill.
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Primary sources: City of Santa Clara Payment Assistance page, current 2026 eligibility rules, and the Silicon Valley Power 2026 rate adjustment notice. The publisher does not process eligibility claims or receive private utility documents.
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