Newsom Appoints New CPUC President

California governor names replacement for outgoing utilities commission leader.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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California Governor Gavin Newsom has appointed a new president to lead the state's Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), the agency responsible for regulating investor-owned power companies like San Diego Gas & Electric. The current CPUC President, Alice Reynolds, is stepping down after more than four years in the role.

Why it matters

The CPUC plays a crucial role in overseeing California's energy utilities and ensuring reliable and affordable power for residents and businesses. The appointment of a new president signals potential changes in the commission's priorities and policies that could impact energy costs, renewable energy initiatives, and consumer protections.

The details

Governor Newsom has not yet announced the name of the new CPUC president, but the appointment comes as the state grapples with the transition to clean energy, wildfire mitigation efforts, and ongoing concerns about utility rates and reliability. Reynolds' departure after more than four years leading the commission is seen as a significant shift in the state's utility regulation landscape.

  • CPUC President Alice Reynolds is stepping down after more than four years in the role.
  • Governor Newsom has appointed a new president to lead the California Public Utilities Commission.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California, responsible for appointing the new CPUC president.

Alice Reynolds

The outgoing president of the California Public Utilities Commission, who is stepping down after more than four years in the role.

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What’s next

The new CPUC president will need to be confirmed by the state Senate and will likely face scrutiny over their plans for regulating California's energy utilities and advancing the state's clean energy goals.

The takeaway

The appointment of a new CPUC president signals a potential shift in the state's approach to utility regulation, with implications for energy costs, renewable energy initiatives, and consumer protections.