The California Energy Commission's Core Responsibilities

As the state’s primary energy policy and planning agency, the California Energy Commission plays a critical role in creating the energy system of the future—one that is clean, modern, and ensures the fifth largest economy in the world continues to thrive. Combating climate change is fundamental to maintaining California’s future. The Energy Commission plays a key role in implementing and crafting policies and programs to create a low-carbon economy.

As the state's primary energy policy and planning agency, the California Energy Commission prepares the Integrated Energy Policy Report (IEPR) and collaborates with state and federal agencies, utilities, and other stakeholders to develop and implement state energy policies.

Since 1975, the California Energy Commission has been responsible for reducing the state's electricity and natural gas demand primarily by adopting new Building and Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards that have contributed to keeping California's per capita electricity consumption relatively low.

Since 1975, the California Energy Commission has advanced innovation through its energy research, development and demonstration (RD&D) programs by investing millions of dollars in technologies to improve California's energy systems and resources.

The California Energy Commission is involved in many efforts to promote and support renewable energy development.

Transportation accounts for a major portion of California's energy budget and has a significant impact on air quality. It is also the single largest source of the State's greenhouse gas emissions.

In 1988, the California Energy Commission developed California's first comprehensive Energy Shortage Contingency Plan that was nationally recognized. Today, the Energy Commission continues to lead the State's energy emergency planning efforts.

A key part of creating a safe and reliable electric system is ensuring that the review of proposed thermal power plants includes an assessment of the project’s design, an analysis of its potential adverse environmental impacts, and a process for public input. The California Energy Commission is responsible for conducting this review and ensuring that these permitted power plants comply with all laws and conditions of approval.