THE STORY

Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, serving millions of residential and business customers across Southern California. To help small businesses manage energy costs and maintain reliable operations, SoCalGas turned to Franklin Energy to implement the Small Business Savings Program, a targeted energy efficiency program designed to reduce participation barriers and accelerate adoption of high-efficiency technologies.

THE GOAL

Franklin Energy set out to help SoCalGas increase small business participation in energy efficiency programs while simplifying the path from assessment to installation. The objective was to reduce upfront cost barriers, minimize operational disruption, and deliver clear, practical solutions that improved energy performance while strengthening the overall customer experience.

THE SOLUTION AND RESULTS

Franklin Energy delivered a turnkey small business solution that combined on-site assessments, tailored equipment recommendations, contractor coordination, and incentive support. Through the Small Business Savings Program, participating businesses received no-cost audits and clear guidance on energy-saving opportunities specific to their facilities.

For example, at a Days Inn hotel in Fontana, California, an energy assessment revealed that the property’s aging hot water system was driving inefficiency and frequent maintenance concerns. As a solution, the team recommended an upgrade to improve system performance and reduce service disruptions. With coordinated incentives and access to SoCalGas’ on-bill financing, the hotel implemented the project with no upfront payment.

Across projects like this one, Franklin Energy’s implementation of the Small Business Savings Program helps SoCalGas deliver consistent energy savings, reduce customer burden, and support the long-term success of small businesses throughout its service territory.