SAN FRANCISCO– The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) today kicked off a new chapter in the state’s ongoing leadership in energy efficiency, launching a new proceeding to shape the next generation of utility programs and policies and to refine oversight of existing portfolios.
California has been a national trailblazer in energy efficiency for more than 50 years—keeping per capita energy use flat while the rest of the country saw a 33 percent increase. This is the result of strategic investments and innovative programs to make energy efficiency a priority in California.
The new Rulemaking launched today builds on the strong foundation of its predecessor proceeding, which closed in January 2025. That prior effort established energy efficiency portfolios for 2024–2027 totaling $4.3 billion, with another $4.6 billion forecasted for 2028–2031—a historic investment in California’s clean energy future.
The new proceeding, like its predecessor, will evolve as issues arise with energy efficiency programs and implementation. As a preliminary structure, the issues expected to be addressed in the proceeding are divided into two main categories: policy issues and implementation issues, both associated with the CPUC’s focus on cost-effective utility energy efficiency portfolios, decarbonization, reliability, and affordability for California ratepayers.
“California has been a leader in energy innovation and efficiency for decades. This new Rulemaking, which builds off past successes and programs, will further this important work to ensure our policies and investments are cost effective, meet or exceed state goals, and effectively support the energy needs of all Californians,” said Commissioner Darcie L. Houck.
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