California Energy Commission

The California Energy Commission is a state agency that seeks to enforce energy efficiency standards for appliances and buildings. These standards are set forth in detail and are intended to minimize energy consumption and protect Californians from the purchase of inefficient appliances and inefficient buildings. These lofty principles, however, are sometimes applied randomly and with poor regard for accuracy, science or sound engineering principles when evaluating alleged violations. As a result, the Commission can levy significant fines – often calculated per unit sold – against a manufacturer or retailer selling product into California.  Because there are so many technical aspects of a complaint asserted by the California Energy Commission, it is critical to evaluate the testing methods, test results, and strict adherence to industry standards of manufacturing. Often this critical evaluation can serve to minimize fines levied, or perhaps avoid liability altogether. As attorneys, engineers, and electrical and building contractors we can identify shortcomings in the alleged complaints, the testing methods, or the testing results and obtain a favorable outcome for our clients.