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We Support Clean Energy Contractors

about efficiency first california

Who We Are

And Why It Matters

Efficiency First California (EFCA) is a non-profit trade organization that represents and promotes clean energy contractors in California. For over 20 years, we have helped contractors like you succeed. 

EFCA is directly involved in state policy discussions. One of our core responsibilities, as a trade organization, is to help contractors be aware and involved in state energy policy. 

Policymakers on the local, state, and federal levels often reach out to us directly to better understand the contractor’s perspective. The contractor’s perspective is crucial in policy discussions. We listen to and advocate for you, the contractor.  

We partner with industry stakeholders who share our common goals. Working collaboratively, we have been able to influence policy on a large scale.

We want to help you grow your business. Our monthly blog and advocacy update help you make well-informed decisions about the future of your business. We represent your best interests for sustainable, fair, and unbiased business models. We have an extensive list of industry contacts. If you need help, reach out and we can likely help you with whatever issues you’re experiencing.

training & events for clean energy & energy efficiency

13 Aug

I-REN C&S Training: Intro to CALGreen (2025 Code)

9:00 am - 10:30 am

Course Description: This course focuses on Title 24, Part 11, the California Green Building Standards, incorporating the 2025 code changes that took effect January 1, 2026. We’ll review background of the code, the logistics of implementation and the specific requirements for residential and non-residential construction. ICC CEUs: 0.1 Instructor: Inbalance Green Consulting

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17 Aug

Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 5 & 6)

6:00 pm - 8:15 pm

This eight-part Intermediate-level series is designed to elevate HVAC professionals from basic troubleshooting to advanced system diagnostics. Built on the foundation of California Quality Installation (CAQI), Maintenance (CAQM), and Service (CAQS) standards, the course guides technicians through a detailed step-by-step process: understanding reported symptoms, gathering field data, identifying root causes, and applying corrective actions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, accurate measurement, client communication, and professional judgment—skills required for modern, efficient, and code-compliant service in California's demanding HVAC environment. Part

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18 Aug

Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 7 & 8)

6:00 pm - 8:15 pm

This eight-part Intermediate-level series is designed to elevate HVAC professionals from basic troubleshooting to advanced system diagnostics. Built on the foundation of California Quality Installation (CAQI), Maintenance (CAQM), and Service (CAQS) standards, the course guides technicians through a detailed step-by-step process: understanding reported symptoms, gathering field data, identifying root causes, and applying corrective actions. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking, accurate measurement, client communication, and professional judgment—skills required for modern, efficient, and code-compliant service in California's demanding HVAC environment. Part

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19 Aug

Ask the Experts: Energy Compliance & Modeling

10:00 am - 11:00 am

Event Description Join us for an office-hours style open discussion focused on energy code compliance and performance modeling. This interactive session gives participants direct access to experts who can help clarify Energy Code requirements, compliance forms, modeling approaches, and energy modeling software. Bring your questions and real-world project challenges! The conversation will be guided by the needs and questions of attendees. The session will be led by Grant Murphy of In Balance Green Consulting, one of 3C-REN’s Energy Code Coaches.

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California Contractor Advocacy

Building a clean energy future for all

Efficiency First California is actively engaged in California policy. We monitor communications from the California Energy Commission and the California Public Utilities Commission. When needed, we provide feedback to ensure regulations and policies consider the contractor’s role and the implications proposed regulations may have on contractors. 

Your feedback as a contractor is critical for our efforts. We encourage your participation in policy discussions. We feel it is our role to represent your perspectives.

Monthly Newsletter

Sign up to get the information you need

Every month you can get details regarding important news and updates on clean energy, energy efficiency, trade shows, and the latest policy developments.  

Check out our blog where you can get the information that matters to you and your business.

Resources

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Calculators

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Industry-Specific Education

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Industry Acronyms

our projects

Clean Energy Connection

Free leads for contractors. Free referrals for homeowners.

EFCA’s Clean Energy Connection contractor directory helps homeowners connect with local, vetted contractors with proven expertise on clean energy and electrification projects. 

We built the Clean Energy Connection to provide free leads to contractors and promote the growth of the industry as a whole.

It’s reliable, free, and it helps to grow and support our state’s clean energy workforce.

our commitments

Program Administrator for Sacramento Municipal Utility District

EFCA leads the way in rebate program management

We have been a key player in providing utility support services to different entities like TECH, SGIP, and PG&E, particularly as a program implementer for Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) incentive programs.

Our success has made EFCA a valuable resource for rebate program designers and implementers. We openly share our processes with others so they can also create successful programs, with the ultimate goal of making things easier for contractors (and homeowners).

Our Partners

sponsorship opportunities

Become a sponsor for EFCA’s upcoming events and open doors to connect, engage, and inspire both Clean Energy Connection (CEC) & Efficiency First California (EFCA) members.

For inquiries and more information, please reach out to our sponsorship team by clicking here.