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.
become an EFCA member
The Voice for Energy Efficiency & Clean Energy Contractors
training & events for clean energy & energy efficiency
The AI-Ready Jobsite: Turning Field Data Into Predictable Builds (and Better Quality)
Most jobsite software wasn't built to capture what AI actually needs. The fields, timestamps, and check-ins that platforms record today were designed for tracking tasks, not for training models or powering diagnostics. That gap is the real bottleneck standing between most builders and the AI tools they're hearing so much about. This session lays out a practical path forward. We'll define the minimum viable dataset a jobsite needs to capture, show how that data supports descriptive and diagnostic analytics that
Overcoming Heat Pump Objections
Description: Heat pumps are quickly gaining traction as a preferred space and water heating technology. California has a goal of 6 million installed heat pumps by 2030, and state policy trends indicate that new gas furnace and water heaters will not be permitted after 2030. While the path forward for heat pumps seems clear, the technology is still foreign to most homeowners. To meet the state goals, contractors and other industry professionals much arm themselves with the knowledge, backed by
Wildfire Defense Certificate for Construction Professionals
Join USGBC California for a hands-on training designed for construction professionals looking to reduce wildfire risk in homes and communities. Participants will learn practical strategies for home hardening, defensible space, fire-wise building materials, landscape design, maintenance practices, and post-fire recovery, culminating in an opportunity to earn a Wildfire Defense Certificate. Best for: Builders, contractors, remodelers, architects, and other construction industry professionals interested in wildfire resilience and community safety.
Systems Diagnostics Module (Part 1 & 2)
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
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.
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.
