Leanne Hoadley, Supervisor in the Energy Efficiency Branch of the Energy Division at the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), spoke about her work and personal efforts to support a healthy planet in recognition of Earth Month, according to an April 13 statement.
Hoadley said her division is responsible for overseeing compliance and evaluating the cost-effectiveness of public purpose energy efficiency programs. These programs provide incentives to California businesses to upgrade their facilities with more efficient options, which helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and lower reliance on natural gas equipment. “These programs help enable and encourage California’s businesses to upgrade their facilities with energy efficient options by providing incentives that lower their capital costs. This helps them lower their monthly energy costs and reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, while they lower their reliance on natural gas equipment and run more efficient electric equipment,” Hoadley said.
She also emphasized the collaborative nature of environmental protection at CPUC. “We are all in this together. At the CPUC, we are dedicated to ensuring safe, reliable, and affordable utility service, while also protecting the air we breathe and the delicate ecosystem we live in. As CPUC staff, we have the privilege and responsibility of supporting our Commissioners with deeply researched analysis and data as they manage very complex and challenging decisions,” she said.
On a personal level, Hoadley shared her experience switching from a traditional water heater to an electric heat pump water heater at home as part of her commitment to reducing fossil fuel use. She recounted challenges faced during installation but ultimately expressed satisfaction with her decision: “I’m extremely happy with my heat pump water heater.” She added that picking up litter during daily runs is another way she tries to make a difference: “It’s a daily thing I can do to feel less helpless.”
Hoadley encouraged others to take small steps toward sustainability such as using electric appliances or reducing plastic consumption. “For the sake of the Earth, we can all take a little more responsibility for our impact. Personally, it feels good when I know I’ve made even a little effort,” she said.
Looking ahead, Hoadley’s comments reflect ongoing efforts within both regulatory agencies like CPUC and individual households toward building a healthier environment.
