The California Energy Commission is the state's primary energy policy and planning agency. Established by the Legislature in 1974, seven core responsibilities guide the Energy Commission: Forecasting future energy needs; Promoting energy efficiency and conservation by setting the state's appliance and building energy efficiency standards; Supporting energy research that advances energy science and technology through research, development and demonstration projects; Developing renewable energy resources; Advancing alternative and renewable transportation fuels and technologies; Certifying thermal power plants 50 megawatts and larger; Planning for and directing state response to energy emergencies.