Base Service Charge

Recently, Governor Gavin Newsom signed state legislation (AB 205) mandating the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC) change the structure of electric bills for Investor-Owned Utility customers.  The CPUC requires Bear Valley Electric Service, Inc. (BVES) to adopt a Base Service Charge (BSC) rate structure where customers pay a Base Service Charge based on their income.

Customers will automatically be transitioned to the BSC rate structure in Q1 2026. This new state mandate will not apply to commercial property owners.

BVES remains committed to providing safe and reliable electric service to the Big Bear community. This new way of assessing electrical service costs will not compromise the grid's reliability and BVES’ commitment to superior customer service.

How Does the New Billing Structure Work

Your current electricity bill includes a Base Service Charge and a Usage Charge. The Base Service Charge covers fixed operating costs and investments in the electric grid – a cost that will not change regardless of how much electricity a customer consumes. The Usage Charge is determined by how much electricity a customer consumes.

The BSC rate structure is designed to provide a more equitable distribution of electricity costs. This means customers can expect to see:

·         A higher fixed monthly service charge determined by customers' income level
·         A reduced electricity usage rate, lowering energy costs for most customers

The higher fixed service charge is not a new fee – it simply shifts how existing costs are shared by customers. The majority of residential customers will see little to no impact on their monthly bill.

How Will This Impact BVES Customers

CARE (California Alternate Rates for Energy) Program

If you're enrolled in the CARE program, your new Base Services Charge will be $10.06 – significantly lower than the standard amount.

CARE Plus Program

You can apply for the CARE Plus Program, which will be available in Q1 2026. If you qualify for CARE Plus, you will only pay $5.00 for the Base Services Charge, significantly reducing your overall cost.

Service Charges

*Under the BSC rate structure in Q1 2026, customers will pay the same service charge unless enrolled in the CARE or CARE Plus financial assistance programs.

·         Standard Customers: $23.22

·         CARE Program: $10.06

·         CARE Plus Program: $5.00

Financial Assistance Programs:

BVES proudly offers assistance for low-income customers who qualify for the financial assistance programs.

Under the BSC rate structure, customers can pay a reduced service charge if enrolled in the CARE or CARE Plus financial assistance programs.

·         California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Program: Eligible customers enrolled in the CARE program will see a 20% discount on monthly electric bills.

·         California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) Plus Program: CARE Plus is a new program for qualifying low-income households that will provide an additional discount on their monthly electric bills. Customers who currently receive CARE benefits may be eligible for a further discount. Customers can apply for the CARE Plus Program now, but action is required.

Learn about your eligibility for the CARE, CARE Plus and other financial assistance programs by visiting our Assistance Programs page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions? We’re Here to Help. 

If you have any questions, our Customer Service team is here to help. For 24-hour customer service, you can reach us at 1-800-808-2837 or email customerservice@bvesinc.com.