For Immediate Release: May 2, 2019
SACRAMENTO - Today the California State Senate confirmed Commissioner David Hochschild to the California Energy Commission in a bipartisan vote of 36 to 0.
"Taking the helm of the Commission is both a great honor and responsibility during this pivotal chapter in the story of California's energy and environmental leadership," Chair Hochschild said. "While the challenges ahead will test our creativity and resolve, we are fortunate to have the winds of bold leadership in our sails throughout the Legislature, Governor's Office and beyond. Going forward, my agency's priority is to be a courageous and relentless force advancing a clean energy future for all."
A longtime clean energy champion, Hochschild has led renewable energy policy as a member of the five-person Commission since 2013 when he was appointed by then-Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. In January 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom reappointed Hochschild to a second term and subsequently designated him as Chair following the February retirement of former Chair Robert Weisenmiller.
"Grounded in pragmatic experiences, Chair Hochschild brings the type of vision and enthusiasm needed as we tackle the current challenges of our energy system and plan for the transition to 100 percent clean electricity," Senate President pro Tempore Toni G. Atkins (D-San Diego) said. "I look forward to working with him to support our growing clean energy economy while ensuring benefits for all Californians."
As Chair, Hochschild oversees an agency of nearly 700 engineers, scientists and professional staff charged with the state's energy policy and planning. His priorities include:
- Leading California's transition to 100 percent clean electricity.
- Advancing building decarbonization and electrification.
- Supporting energy innovation and entrepreneurship.
- Expanding clean transportation infrastructure.
- Maintaining strong building standards to save energy and lower costs.
He is also initiating multi-stakeholder efforts to move the offshore wind and lithium recovery industries forward in the state.
View Chair Hochschild's bio or follow on Twitter and LinkedIn for updates.
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About the California Energy Commission
The California Energy Commission is the state's primary energy policy and planning agency. It has seven core responsibilities: advancing state energy policy, encouraging energy efficiency, certifying thermal power plants, investing in energy innovation, developing renewable energy, transforming transportation, and preparing for energy emergencies.