The California Energy Commission is the State of California’s primary energy policy and planning agency. Established in 1974, it develops statewide energy policies, forecasts demand, and collects and publishes energy data to support reliability, affordability, and environmental goals.
The Commission sets building and appliance energy efficiency standards, plans and permits certain thermal power plants (50 MW and larger), and administers programs that fund energy research, renewable energy, grid modernization, and zero‑emission transportation infrastructure. It monitors petroleum and transportation fuels markets, energy supply, and prices, and supports emergency preparedness and response related to energy systems. The agency coordinates with entities such as the California Public Utilities Commission, Air Resources Board, California ISO, local governments, and federal partners to implement state energy laws and programs.