Best Energy Regulatory Law Lawyers in Concord

1. About Energy Regulatory Law in Concord, United States

In Concord, Energy Regulatory Law governs how electricity and natural gas are produced, transmitted, distributed, and priced. The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) regulates investor-owned utilities and oversees rates, reliability, and compliance with energy policies. Federal oversight by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) governs interstate electricity markets and wholesale transmission, which can affect local projects and pricing.

Concord residents and businesses often interact with Community Choice Aggregators (CCAs) like MCE Clean Energy, which procure power for customers within Contra Costa County. Even when a CCA supplies your electricity, you may still deal with the CPUC for billing, interconnection, and consumer protections. A California energy regulatory attorney can help you coordinate state level rules with local service and procurement options.

Effective energy regulation in Concord combines state statutes, regulatory decisions, and federal wholesale rules. Understanding who regulates what, and when, helps you navigate interconnections, incentives, and compliance. An attorney familiar with Concord’s utilities landscape can translate complex rules into practical steps for your project or dispute.

2. Why You May Need a Lawyer

• Interconnecting a rooftop solar system with your utility. A resident in Concord may need help negotiating interconnection terms, net energy metering credits, and safety requirements with PG&E or MCE, and ensuring compliance with CPUC rules.
• Fighting a rate increase or a CPUC decision. If your energy bill spikes after a rate case, an attorney can review filings, gather data, and file appropriate petitions or appeals with the CPUC.
• Navigating net energy metering changes. As CA regulators update net metering rules, a lawyer can assess eligibility, credits, and timelines for customers of PG&E or a CCA in Concord.
• Developing a small energy storage or microgrid project. Projects requiring CPUC approvals or CAISO coordination benefit from counsel who understands interconnection, procurement, and reliability standards.
• Disputes with a utility or CCA about service quality or outages. A lawyer can communicate with the regulator, preserve your rights, and pursue remedies under state rules.
• Complying with energy efficiency and greenhouse gas regulations for a business. California rules under AB 32 and subsequent climate goals influence permitting, incentives, and reporting obligations.

3. Local Laws Overview

Concord falls under California energy regulation, with key laws driving how electricity is procured, priced, and used. Below are 2-3 prominent laws and regulations you should know, along with relevant dates and context.

Senate Bill 100 (SB 100) - The Clean Energy Act of 2018

SB 100 sets major California targets for renewable energy and carbon-free electricity. It aims for 60 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 100 percent clean electricity by 2045. The law guides procurement decisions for local utilities and CCAs serving Concord residents and businesses.

California's Renewable Portfolio Standard aims to reach 60 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 100 percent clean energy by 2045.

Source and details: official text and summaries on the California Legislative Information site. See the SB 100 page for the formal language and implementation timeline: SB 100 (2018).

AB 327 (2013) - Net Energy Metering and Consumer Protection

AB 327 requires utilities to ensure that customers installing distributed generation can participate in net energy metering and related programs. It helps shape how Concord residents and businesses receive credits for excess generation and how rate designs reflect the value of distributed energy resources.

For the official text and legislative history, see the AB 327 page on the California Legislative Information site: AB 327 (2013).

AB 32 - Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006

AB 32 directs state agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020 and to implement programs that meet those targets. This act laid the groundwork for California energy regulation and climate policy that continues to shape Concord's energy landscape.

The Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 directs state agencies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 1990 levels by 2020.

Details and history are available on the California Legislative Information site: AB 32 (2006).

Titles 20 and 24 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR)

Title 20 governs electric appliance efficiency and certain utility program rules, while Title 24 sets building energy efficiency standards. These regulations affect Concord projects ranging from new construction to retrofits and demand side management. California updates these standards periodically to reflect new technologies and policy goals.

For authoritative information, see the California Energy Commission and CPUC pages on energy efficiency standards and regulations: California Energy Commission - Energy Efficiency and CPUC - Energy Efficiency.

4. Frequently Asked Questions

What is Energy Regulatory Law in Concord?

Energy Regulatory Law covers how electricity and gas services are regulated, who oversees them, and how disputes are resolved. It involves state and federal agencies and local procurement options such as CCAs in Concord.

How do I begin interconnecting a solar system in Concord?

Start by determining your utility service area (PG&E or a CCA like MCE). Then contact the regulator and your installer to file interconnection applications and ensure safety and compliance with CPUC rules.

When did SB 100 take effect and what does it require?

SB 100 was enacted in 2018 and sets targets for 60 percent renewable energy by 2030 and 100 percent carbon-free electricity by 2045. Implementation is coordinated by state regulators and utilities.

Where can I file a complaint about utility service in Concord?

You can file complaints with the CPUC for electric utility service issues. The CPUC’s consumer affairs office handles complaints and enforcement actions.

Why might I need a lawyer for a CPUC proceeding?

CPUC matters can be technical and time-sensitive. An attorney helps gather evidence, interpret complex rules, and present a persuasive case to the regulator.

Can I switch my provider between a utility and a CCA in Concord?

Switching between a traditional utility and a CCA like MCE is common in California, but eligibility and processes vary by location and contract terms. A lawyer can guide the transition.

Should I hire an attorney or a solicitor for energy matters in California?

In the United States, the term attorney or lawyer is standard. A California solicitor is not commonly used; an attorney-at-law is the usual designation for licensing purposes.

Do I need to file with CAISO for a local energy project?

CAISO oversees wholesale energy markets and grid operations. Large or multi-site projects typically require CAISO coordination in addition to CPUC filings.

Is net energy metering still available for solar customers in Concord?

Net energy metering programs exist, with ongoing regulatory updates affecting credits and eligibility. Consult the CPUC and your utility or CCA for current terms.

How long does a typical energy rate case take in California?

Rate cases in California can take 6 to 18 months or longer, depending on complexity and whether settlements are reached. A lawyer can map a realistic timeline for your case.

What costs are involved in hiring an energy regulatory lawyer?

Fees vary by matter and firm. Expect consultation fees, hourly rates, and possible retainer. A written engagement letter clarifies scope and budgeting.

What should I prepare before meeting an energy regulatory attorney in Concord?

Bring recent utility bills, any interconnection or contract documents, dates of disputes or filings, and a clear summary of your goals and deadlines.

5. Additional Resources

• California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) - regulates investor-owned utilities, approves rates, ensures safe and reliable service. Website: cpuc.ca.gov
• California Energy Commission (CEC) - develops energy policy, oversees energy efficiency standards and state energy planning. Website: energy.ca.gov
• Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) - regulates interstate electric transmission and wholesale markets. Website: ferc.gov

6. Next Steps

1. Define your energy issue and desired outcome. Write a one-page summary with dates, parties, and documents you have.
2. Identify your service area in Concord (PG&E vs MCE). Note whether your project involves a utility, a CCA, or both.
3. Research local energy regulatory attorneys who list CPUC, CAISO, or CCA experience. Check firm bios, case histories, and client reviews.
4. Contact 2-3 attorneys for a brief consultation. Prepare questions about experience, strategy, timeline, and fees.
5. Request a written engagement letter outlining scope, fees, milestones, and a rough budget. Confirm expected response times and communication frequency.
6. Gather all relevant documents before the engagement. Bring interconnection agreements, bills, notices, and any prior regulator filings.
7. Attend the first meeting with a clear plan and a calendar of deadlines. Decide on formal representation and set next steps with the attorney.