CPUC hearing targets supplier diversity

California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) officials said supplier diversity would serve as the focal point of the agency’s 16th annual public hearing while also garnering community feedback.

Officials said the effort would also provide an opportunity to examine the state’s regulated utilities diversity programs, discuss CPUC’s commitment to diversity and gain insight from the community regarding the impact supplier diversity has had on the communities the utilities serve.

State Sen. Steven Bradford (D-Gardena), former State Assemblywoman Gwen Moore, and investor-owned utility executives would join the Commission in reviewing the progress, commitments, and initiatives made to increase women, minorities, disabled veterans-owned and gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender participation in procurement by regulated utilities and other entities.

A public comment session would be held during the hearing, officials said, noting representatives of industry, government, academia, labor, community-based organizations, and other interested parties are expected to attend.

The hearing agenda includes Summary of Utility Performance and Report to the Legislature on General Order (GO) 156; the Diverse Community Perspective on GO 156; Alternative Energy Markets – Exploring the Possibilities; and Strategic Sourcing-Navigating the Future of Procurement.