Utility officials have raised the eligibility for low-income discount rates. SMUD’s Chris Capra says customers are qualified if their total household income doesn’t exceed 200-percent of the federal poverty level. It used to be 175-percent.     

"For example, a family of four can earn up to $41,500 a year to quality for the Energy Assistance Program rates. Their previous eligibility limit was $36,300."

SMUD’s Board of Directors made the change when they approved the budget for 2008. The utility also offers discounts for people who need an electrically-powered device for medical reasons.