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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

21 May

Practical Guide to All-Electric Residential Buildings

8:30 am - 12:30 pm

Course Description: Building All-Electric homes is becoming increasingly stronger than ever. These homes are not only cheaper to construct and operate, but they also offer healthier and more comfortable living environments. Additionally, they produce roughly half the greenhouse gas emissions compared to mixed fuel homes. The 2025 California energy code is set to accelerate the adoption of All-Electric buildings, making compliance with energy regulations easier. This class, led by two experienced instructors who have personally built All-Electric homes, provides an

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21 May

ASHRAE Guideline 36 Best in Class HVAC Control Sequences

9:30 am - 1:00 pm

ASHRAE Guideline 36, High Performance Sequences of Operation for HVAC Systems, was created to develop and maintain best in class standardized HVAC control sequences. This guideline allows engineers to reduce engineering time by adapting standard sequences already proven to perform. It also minimizes programming and commissioning time for contractors through the use of preprogrammed and pre tested control logic that is being developed by building automation system manufacturers. ASHRAE Guideline 36 reduces energy consumption, improves implementation quality and reliability, and

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21 May

Design, Operation and Maintenance Considerations for Industrial Decarbonization

1:30 pm - 4:00 pm

This course focuses on the design and operational considerations required to successfully implement and sustain industrial decarbonization strategies. Our instructor will address how to evaluate existing systems, identify future ready upgrade pathways, and apply an efficiency first approach to system design.

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21 May

IHACI: NATE Certification Training Series – Core: Part 2 (Electrical Skills)

6:00 pm - 9:00 pm

Description:  (In-Person / Irwindale)  Join the growing number of professionals who demonstrate proficiency in the HVAC/R industry by becoming certified by NATE (North American Technician Excellence). NATE is a nationally recognized certification program for heating, ventilation, air-conditioning and refrigeration technicians, and it is the only test supported by the entire industry. More customers are placing a high priority on locating a certified expert and NATE certification help HVAC professionals keep a competitive edge. This series of seminars are specifically designed to

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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.