The Policy & Planning Division (PPD) consists of a small group of policy analysts charged with identifying and analyzing utility industry issues, internal and external procedures, and interagency relationships that would not ordinarily be addressed by the industry divisions in their course of operations. PPD provides Commissioners, the Executive Director and the Management Team with independent analysis and advice focusing on Commission practices, procedures, issues and policies. Our assignments are distinct from those of other divisions in that our projects are likely to be more comprehensive in scope, may cross division boundaries, and may sometimes involve other agencies. Most of our work falls into the following categories:
Regulatory Policy:
The primary emphasis for PPD is on comprehensive medium and long-term strategic analyses of the industries the Commission oversees. We try to identify industry trends and influences, and suggest appropriate regulatory responses. We frequently prepare briefings and write reports which analyze the issues and present options for policy decisions, providing advice to Commissioners on policy alternatives, goals and strategies.
CPUC Internal Reforms:
PPD conducts studies and makes recommendations on reforms to the Commission's internal operations. We identify organizational and procedural problems not currently addressed by, or that transcend the industry divisions and develop and propose solutions.
External Affairs:
PPD represents the Commission before external organizations on industry and regulatory topics. Staff may participate in briefing legislators and legislative staff on regulatory issues; attend and speak at industry conferences on California regulatory efforts; coordinate agency responses to state, federal and foreign requests for information; write Commission speeches on select policy issues; and participate in conferences and other off-site Commission functions.
MISSION:
To provide proactive leadership on emerging policy issues of broad importance to the Commission, and support sound, long-term policy development through independent research and analysis in concert with other divisions and agencies.
VALUES:
Our Work
Our work is purposeful, relevant, objective and collaborative. In all of our projects, we employ foresight and a broad perspective.
Our People
We have a work environment that is open, honest, respectful, and interactive. We bring initiative, dedication, intellectual curiosity, and a sense of humor to all of our tasks. Above all, we value responsibility and accountability in our contributions to the Commission’s policy initiatives.
VISION:
The Policy and Planning Division is integral to the Commission in identifying, designing and communicating threshold policies and trends as they occur locally and globally, to ensure that every Californian has access to the most reliable and technologically advanced utility infrastructure in the world.