About Charles (Chuck) Tralka

I'm an electrical engineer and founder of ZeroQuest, with a background that bridges technology, business, and real estate. That combination gives me a unique perspective: I understand how utilities charge for electricity, how buildings operate, where the inefficiencies hide, and how to apply engineering discipline to cut costs and boost profitability for small and mid-sized businesses.

I believe that businesses can become the cornerstone of the clean energy transition — making themselves more profitable, more resilient, and more sustainable through smarter energy use. I act as an energy partner for my clients, guiding them to make the best possible energy decisions.

My Path

Electrical Engineering (UC Davis)

A degree in Electrical Engineering and a 23-year career in semiconductors and technology gave me the tools to analyze complex systems and a deep understanding of how businesses operate and make money.

Energy Advisor

Today, I combine all my skills and experiences to help small to mid-sized businesses reduce electricity costs, become more efficient and resilient, and drop more dollars to the bottom line by making smart energy decisions.

Real Estate Investor

Over a decade of investing in and developing a variety of real estate projects taught me about building energy efficiency and how energy use directly impacts bottom lines.

Speaking & Thought Leadership

I speak on the future of building energy management, the economics and dynamics of utility charges, and the role of operational efficiency in the clean energy transition. My sessions are aligned with the goals of my audience and designed to be actionable, plain-English, and results-driven — not technical lectures.

Topics Include

Cutting small and mid-sized business energy costs without upfront capital
Demand charges explained — and why they matter
How businesses such as restaurants, grocers, and hotels can turn energy use from a liability into an advantage
The future of small to mid-sized businesses in demand response programs and for supporting virtual power plants

Available Formats

Keynote presentations
Panel discussions
Training sessions
Podcast guest appearances

ChuckTralka