Californians face a challenge that is rapidly becoming a nation wide crisis: How should we satisfy our energy needs? Today we rely largely on fossil fuels – coal, natural gas, and gasoline – for both electricity and transportation. Our energy challenge stems from two problems: (1) Fossil fuels cause too much air pollution and (2) unless we become even more reliant on highly-polluting coal, there are not enough fossil fuels to satisfy our energy needs. Of course, California is not alone. Most other states and countries face similar problems. California's challenge, however, is particularly severe.California's use of fossil fuels makes its air pollution among the worst in the world. The state would rank as the fifth-largest producer of greenhouse gas emissions among all countries. It accounts for America's four worst metropolitan air pollution zones. This air pollution causes major public health issues, including some of America's highest childhood asthma rates.California consumes both the most electricity and the most gasoline of any state in America; and it faces shortages of each. The electricity grid is on the verge of blackouts. Gasoline prices are the highest in the continental United States. To make matters worse, California's efforts to control air pollution are further restricting supplies.The challenge is complicated. It impacts the complete web of California's economy: electricity usage, transportation infrastructure, environmental quality, and public health. Some argue that, in the near term, the state should loosen its env ironmental regulations in order to feed its economy. They warn that California must compete economically with states and nations that are willing to provide the cheapest possible electricity and fuel, regardless of air pollution.The Green Coast Foundation believes otherwise. We are focusing our efforts to enable a vibrant, statewide market for clean, renewable energy. Tradeoffs may be necessary, but we do not believe that economic growth must be compromised in the process. The Green Coast Foundation is working with local stakeholders to develop better market intelligence, effective public education efforts, and widely-available subsidies for Green Energy installations. As such we are fostering energy solutions that will help California to solve its energy challenge, and to enjoy the dual benefits of both a cleaner environment and a thriving economy.While there are several other organizations in the US that support the proliferation of Green Energy, none is bringing stakeholders together to collaborate in ways that has produced tangible results. The Green Coast Foundation is fostering a multi-stakeholder, interdisciplinary community where constructive discourse and research can take place. With our focus on California, we distinguish ourselves from the many national organizations that have broader goals. Our focus makes us a more relevant player in the development of California's energy future.