LOS ANGELES, July 18, 2006 – Southern California Gas Company (The Gas Company) just made it easier to receive rebates on new residential energy-efficient appliances.  Instead of filling out an application and waiting six to eight weeks, customers now can receive their rebates instantly at the point of sale.

        The new “Instant Rebate” program began July 15 for qualifying clothes washers, dishwashers and water heaters sold at The Home Depot, Snyder Diamond and many other participating retailers.  Rebates are $35 for high-efficiency clothes washers and $30 for high-efficiency dishwashers and water heaters.

        “We’re improving a popular program to achieve even greater energy efficiency results,” said Mark Gaines, director of customer programs at The Gas Company.  “Energy efficiency has become an important statewide goal that helps stretch energy supplies and improves the environment.”

        Last year, The Gas Company’s residential rebates helped sell enough energy-efficient appliances to save more than 2 million therms of natural gas – enough to meet the needs of about 3,700 homes for a year. 

        For a list of qualifying appliances and participating retailers for the Instant Rebate program, visit socalgas.com/residential/savemoney/instant.shtml.

        Before buying qualifying products, customers are encouraged to verify rebate availability by calling The Gas Company toll-free at (888) 431-2226.

        Rebates are provided to qualified customers on a first-come, first-served basis until program funds are no longer available.  This program is funded by California utility customers and administered by The Gas Company under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission.  The program may be modified or terminated without prior notice.

        The Gas Company is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 19.8 million consumers through 5.6 million meters.  The company’s service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in most of central and Southern California.  The Gas Company strives to provide exceptional customer service to enhance the quality of life in the community.  The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE).  Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company.

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