The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) marked Earth Month by highlighting on Apr. 8 the work of its approximately 1,600 employees in advancing environmental sustainability and supporting California communities.
Earth Month is seen as a time to consider how to build a healthier future for the planet. The CPUC said it aims to balance environmental progress with reliability and affordability while delivering benefits to Californians.
Sahba Hafezi, Senior Energy Analyst at CPUC, said, “The CPUC protects both the planet and Californians by balancing environmental progress with reliability and affordability. This behind-the-scenes work empowers local communities to lead on clean energy, reduces emissions, improves air quality, and creates a more resilient grid for everyone. It’s a powerful example of how thoughtful regulation can drive meaningful climate action while serving the public interest.”
Staff from various divisions described their roles in furthering these goals. Manisha Lakhanpal, Administrative Law Judge, explained her part in implementing state climate legislation: “I help make and write decisions on policies adopted by the legislature to further the state’s goals towards a carbon-free future.” Shannon Ross, Court Reporter, added that she helps make proceedings transparent: “I help make CPUC proceedings transparent and accessible to the public by ensuring every word is accurate in the public record.”
In addition to their professional responsibilities—such as overseeing efficiency programs or tracking electricity supply costs—many employees also take personal steps toward sustainability. For example, Madeline Ocampo volunteers with Plant Based Treaty; Mary Baver has installed solar panels at home; Hafezi drives an electric vehicle; Erica Petrofsky uses heat pump technology; Leanne Hoadley has encouraged neighbors to switch to heat pump water heaters.
Lakhanpal summed up staff commitment: “As public employees, CPUC teams are hardworking, dedicated, and passionate about making California a leader in every endeavor we work on.”
Looking ahead beyond Earth Month itself, CPUC emphasized that its ongoing regulatory actions—and individual choices made by its staff—are intended to shape a cleaner and more resilient California.
