The present embodiments are directed to circuitry and techniques for operating a switching regulator, including in connection with transitions out of energy conservation modes during which a minimal amount of current is drawn from a power source such as a battery. According to certain aspects, embodiments of an energy conservation mode include provisions for maintaining high performance voltage regulation even in the face of a sudden increase in load requirements. These and other embodiments can further include various techniques for signaling an appropriate transition for exiting out of energy conservation mode and into a continuous conduction mode.