California Code, Public Utilities Code - PUC § 898

Notwithstanding Section 890, a municipality, district, or public agency that offers in published tariffs home weatherization services, rate assistance for low-income customers, or programs similar to those described in subdivision (a) of Section 890, shall not be required to collect a surcharge pursuant to this article from customers within its service territory.  A municipality, district, or public agency shall be required to collect a surcharge pursuant to this article from customers served by the municipality, district, or public agency outside of its service territory unless the commission determines that the entity offers those customers services similar to those offered by gas utilities as described in subdivision (a) of Section 890.