In California’s fight against climate change, the state has been at the forefront of pioneering numerous innovative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase energy efficiency. Among these solutions, Regional Energy Networks (RENs) stand out as a transformative model for locally-driven energy programs that reach underserved communities and address energy affordability with targeted precision. This article highlights key accomplishments from RENs, as detailed in their  2024 Annual Reports.

From Bold Vision to Statewide Impact

Authorized by the  CPUC in 2012, RENs began as pilot programs in 2013 with the Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN) and the Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN). Their early success led the CPUC to grant them permanent status in 2019, recognizing their ability to fill critical g

aps that traditional utility programs couldn’t reach. What makes RENs unique is their hyper-local approach and commitment to equity. Directed by the CPUC to implement programs utilities don’t offer, RENs target hard-to-reach communities and design scalable, regional initiatives. 

Today, RENs serve an impressive 94% of California’s population, providing targeted energy efficiency programs that create jobs, save money, reduce carbon footprints, and help mitigate the impacts of extremeweather driven by climate change. Seven RENs now operate across the state, including BayREN, SoCalREN, the Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN), the Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN), the Central California Rural Regional Energy Network (CCR-REN), the Northern Rural Energy Network, and the San Diego Regional Energy Network (SDREN). 

Impact Across the Regions

The effects of RENs are evident across California, particularly in disadvantaged communities. Here’s a snapshot of their regional successes:

• SoCalREN: From the Inland Empire to the Central Valley, the Sierras to the coast, SoCalREN’s programming covers 13 counties in Southern California. Over the last decade, SoCalREN has saved over 1,350 billion kWh of energy, cutting public agencies’ energy bills by $411 million – funds that can be reinvested into local communities. SoCalREN’s work with youth and adults from foster care and justice backgrounds has resulted in 50 energy efficiency technical certifications to facilitate entry into the clean economy.  Additionally, 130 high school students from Title 1 schools have obtained technical certifications through SoCalREN, and nearly 600 contractors from minority, veteran, and women-owned businesses have completed courses to prepare for clean energy opportunities.
• BayREN: Since its inception in 2013, BayREN has avoided over 150 million metric tons of carbon emissions and paid $88 million in incentives. Serving the diverse Bay Area region, it has upgraded more than 76,000 homes and businesses. BayREN also runs equity-focused programs, including a climate career initiative that has trained over 220 youth from underrepresented backgrounds, resulting in over 11,800 Green House Calls and a high rate of clean economy job retention. 

• 3C-REN: Covering Ventura, Santa Barbara, and San Luis Obispo counties, 3C-REN delivered over $800,000 in incentives to more than 500 homes in 2023 and hosted more than 480 training events, reaching over 10,000 attendees.

• I-REN: Focused on public sector programs and workforce development in the Inland Empire, I-REN achieved 100% of its public agency projects in underserved or hard-to-reach communities in 2024 and placed 25 fellowship interns in the region for energy efficiency projects. 

• New RENs: The three new RENs – CCR-REN, Rural REN North, and SDREN – are preparing to launch initiatives that will bring additional residential, commercial and public energy savings to 32 counties, impacting 10 million residents, and increasing job opportunities in disadvantaged communities. 

Supporting Statewide Energy Progress and Affordability

While each REN tailors its programs to local needs, collectively, RENs have made a significant impact across California. In 2024, operational RENs saved over 6,400 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to removing almost 1,500 gas-powered cars from the road for a year. As more RENs launch in 2025, these savings will continue to grow.

Energy efficiency programs play a crucial role in making energy more affordable. These programs typically account for only 1.5% of residential bills but deliver substantial benefits.  Since the 1970s, California’s energy efficiency initiatives have saved over $100 billion, generating $5 billion in ratepayer benefits in 2023 alone, equating to an $8.49 return for every dollar invested. These programs have kept electricity load growth flat for 25 years and continue to lower long-term costs for all ratepayers, helping to create a cleaner, more reliable grid.

Looking Ahead: Key Players in Climate Action

As California aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 60% below 2020 levels by 2035, RENs will play an increasingly critical role. Their focus on underserved and hard-to-reach communities complements the state’s broader climate goals, ensuring a more comprehensive and equitable transition to clean energy. Below is a sampling of emerging REN programs:

• SDREN: SDREN is launching a portfolio of ten energy efficiency programs across San Diego County, with full rollout expected by early 2026. Focused on equity, electrification, and community-driven solutions, these programs will deliver resources and value to eligible residents, businesses, public agencies, Tribes, and the workforce sector. 
• CCR REN: CCR REN is launching programs for residential, commercial and public sectors. CCR-REN will focus on equity-based energy savings opportunities and workforce development in rural communities, creating pathways for climate-adaptive careers.
• Northern Rural Energy Network: Tailoring solutions for rural communities, Northern Rural Energy Network aims to overcome challenges related to geography and housing conditions, and economic conditions, bringing energy efficiency benefits to populations with historically lower participation rates.
• BayREN: In 2025, BayREN will roll out its Efficiency and Sustainable Energy (EASE) Home Program, offering low-cost energy upgrades to moderate-income households and transitioning the Home Energy Score program to a statewide model by 2026.
• SoCalREN: Our Commercial Programs, which launched in 2025, help small and medium-sized businesses in underserved communities to establish sustainable energy practices that lead to energy savings and greenhouse gas (GHG) reductions, contributing to local, state, and climate goals. Starting in July, 2025, the SoCalREN Agriculture Programs will support small and medium rural, disadvantaged customers to help them reduce their energy costs, increase the comfort and health of indoor environments, and sustainably manage their energy, water, and carbon footprint.

In 2025 and beyond, RENs will continue driving energy savings, greenhouse gas emission reductions, and economic growth across California. By empowering local communities to create and implement energy solutions, RENs exemplify how community-driven approaches can tackle global challenges. They ensure that the benefits of California’s clean energy transition reach everyone, making the state’s energy future more equitable, sustainable, and resilient.

To ensure these efforts continue, sustained investment in RENs is critical.  The Public Purpose Program charge, which supports programs like low-income rate discounts, provides the funding needed to expand REN programs and meet the state’s ambitious climate goals while improving access for vulnerable communities.

Learn more about Regional Energy Networks at californiaregionalenergynetworks.org/