About Regional Energy Networks (RENs)
California's energy landscape has evolved over the past decade, with regional energy networks, also known as RENs, playing a key role. Established in 2013 as pilot programs, RENs began offering energy retrofit solutions, education, outreach, incentives, financing, and workforce training to (or in) their local communities. Early pioneers like BayREN and SoCalREN paved the way for broader efforts statewide.
Today, RENs are crucial to California's energy strategy, providing energy efficiency programs tailored to local communities. Guided by local governments and authorized by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), RENs adapt to meet the needs of underserved areas, making them essential to the state's energy future.
The reach of RENs has grown significantly, now serving 94% of California’s population through Bay Area REN, Southern California REN, Tri-County REN, Inland REN, San Diego REN, Central California Rural REN, and Northern Rural Energy Network.
Why RENs?
RENs play a vital role by providing energy efficiency programs tailored to their regions, addressing gaps left by large investor-owned utility (IOU) programs. What sets them apart is their holistic approach, leveraging extra funding to enhance energy initiatives and bring added value to communities. Their localized focus allows them to understand and meet specific needs while ensuring transparency and affordability for their communities.
RENs not only reduce energy use but also lower electricity bills, reduce demand, and create local jobs. As energy demand grows from sectors like transportation and data centers, RENs play a key role in managing load, developing a skilled workforce, and keeping energy affordable. Ultimately, RENs deliver broad economic benefits, improving public health and supporting all Californians.
Our Members
Hover over each REN to see the territories they serve highlighted on the map!
California’s Regional Energy Networks
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Northern Rural Energy Network (NREN)
NREN is administered by the Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), and is a partnership between RCEA, the Mendocino Council of Governments, Lake Area Planning Council, and Sierra Business Council. It was established in 2024 and serves 14 Sierra Nevada and 3 North Coast counties within the PG&E territory.
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Bay Area Regional Energy Network (BayREN)
BayREN is administered by the Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG). It was established in 2013 and serves the Bay Area’s nine counties in PG&E territory.
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Central California Rural Regional Energy Network (CCR-REN)
CCR-REN is administered by the County of San Luis Obispo. It was established in 2024 and serves the Central Coast, Eastern Sierra, and San Joaquin Valley in PG&E, SCE and SCG territory.
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Southern California Regional Energy Network (SoCalREN)
SoCalREN is administered by Los Angeles County. It was established in 2013 and serves 13 counties in SCE and SCG territory.
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Tri-County Regional Energy Network (3C-REN)
3C-REN is administered by the County of Ventura. It was established in 2018 and serves the Counties of San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Ventura in PG&E, SCE and SoCalGas territory.
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Inland Regional Energy Network (I-REN)
I-REN is administered by the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG). It was established in 2022 and serves the Counties of Riverside and San Bernardino in SCE and SCG territory.
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San Diego Regional Energy Network (SDREN)
SDREN is administered by San Diego Community Power in partnership with the County of San Diego. It was established in 2024 and serves all of San Diego County in SDG&E territory.
Note: Regional Energy Networks serve only the highlighted areas that are also served by investor-owned utilities.