Leuwam Tesfai has been named the new Executive Director of the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), with her term beginning on February 2, 2026. Tesfai currently serves as the CPUC’s Deputy Executive Director for Energy and Climate Policy and has been with the organization since 2011. Her experience includes roles as Chief of Staff and Legal Advisor to former Commissioners, along with work in the Legal, Energy, and Administrative Law Judge Divisions.
Tesfai also brings private sector experience in renewable energy markets, facility permitting, and clean energy technology commercialization. In 2023, she was recognized nationally by receiving the C3E Clean Energy Education and Empowerment Government Award from the U.S. Department of Energy.
“Leuwam has consistently shown that effective policy depends on strong leadership and execution,” said CPUC President Alice Reynolds. “As Deputy Executive Director for Energy and Climate Policy, she has shown a rare combination of problem-solving through particularly complex policy issues and a remarkable ability to bring people together. This experience makes her exceptionally well suited to lead as Executive Director.”
As Executive Director, Tesfai will be responsible for overseeing daily operations at the CPUC and expediting matters within its jurisdiction.
“I am honored to be named the CPUC’s Executive Director at this important moment,” said Ms. Tesfai. “I look forward to working with the Commissioners and staff to support a smooth leadership transition and advance the CPUC’s priorities. Together, we will champion equity and innovation while promoting affordability, reliability, and safety in our forward-looking utility regulation for all Californians.”
Tesfai is originally from San Diego and holds degrees from Emory University and the University of San Francisco School of Law. She is active in several legal and civic organizations, including serving on advisory boards related to law, energy, environment, and women’s civic engagement.
She will succeed Rachel Peterson as Executive Director after Peterson concludes her service on January 31, 2026.
The CPUC regulates services such as utilities across California to protect consumers while ensuring access to reliable infrastructure.
