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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

07 May

NCI: Refrigerant-Side Performance Certification Program Part 2 – Refrigerant-Side Basics, Diagnostics, and Opportunities

8:00 am - 5:00 pm

Description: This two-day intermediate residential & commercial certification training course provides you with real-world lessons and hands-on training. It’s based on proven techniques on how to best approach refrigeration-side issues. In this advanced testing, diagnostics and troubleshooting class you’ll discover why traditional approaches taught industry-wide are often not the best way to diagnose and fix performance and comfort issues. Part 2 will cover superheat and subcooling, refrigerant-side diagnostics, repairs and performance. Learn how to measure and diagnose refrigerant-side temperatures and pressures. The

$50
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07 May

Crawlspace Retrofits in Electrification Projects: Health Benefits, Moisture Management, and Wildfire Safety

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Part 2 of 2  Many existing crawlspaces require remediation prior to other energy upgrade work, including attic or electrification upgrades. This course examines retrofits of vented and unvented crawlspaces, tradeoffs between each crawlspace assembly, and the crawlspace assembly's impact on the home's overall performance and comfort. From home durability to occupant safety and comfort, Dan Perunko of Balance Point Home Performance will address moisture and vapor sources, rodent control, as well as strategies to reduce wildfire ember intrusion. Agenda: Introduction

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07 May

Fire Resistant Homes: Building Strategies that Reduce Risk

12:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Wildfires are reshaping how Californians think about housing safety and resilience. Attendees will gain comprehension about common home risks and vulnerabilities, fire resistant features, and risk reduction strategies. In 2025, two legal documents related to fire risk and real estate were updated; Department of Real Estate's Transfer Disclosure Statement requirements and a section of CA’s T24 building code specific to fire resistance of homes. We’re seeing increasing evidence that features typical to efficient, higher performance homes are intrinsically fire resistant.

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11 May

AC/HP Refrigeration Module 2026

May 11 - May 12

This eight-part seminar is designed for HVAC professionals, ranging from beginners to those with intermediate experience. The program begins with the foundational principles and theories of air conditioning and heat pump systems. From there, it systematically covers the processes involved in Quality Installation (QI), Quality Maintenance (QM), and Quality Service (QS) specifically for residential and light commercial systems in the California market. Held in the evenings, this series equips participants with the comprehensive skills needed to expertly install, commission, maintain,

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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.