The California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) has released its 2025 annual report on the Environmental and Social Justice (ESJ) Action Plan 2.0, documenting efforts to integrate ESJ principles into the agency’s regulatory work.
According to the report, CPUC has completed 85 percent of its planned actions across nine strategic objectives and 94 action items. This builds on the initial ESJ Action Plan, which set a framework for collaboration, accountability, and equitable policymaking.
“The CPUC made significant strides in integrating ESJ principles into its internal operations, decision-making processes, and external engagements,” said CPUC Executive Director Rachel Peterson. “We cultivated a culture committed to understanding the real challenges and lived experiences of ESJ communities, centering their feedback, and upholding our commitment to equity.”
The report highlights several initiatives. Investments in clean energy have been increased to improve air quality and public health in disadvantaged communities that are more exposed to pollution-related risks. The CPUC reviewed distributed energy plans and prioritized building decarbonization while streamlining enrollment for low-income energy programs.
Workforce development was promoted through collaboration with the California Workforce Development Board, focusing on career pathways in utilities for underserved communities.
To enhance participation in decision-making, community partnerships were expanded. Outreach included monthly newsletters from the External Affairs Division and translation of materials into multiple languages such as Chinese, Korean, and Spanish.
Efforts to expand access to utility services included support for broadband initiatives on tribal lands through the California Advanced Service Fund (CASF) Tribal Technical Assistance Program. Over $6 million was awarded to more than 40 Tribes. In one example, broadband service provided by the Yurok Tribe connected over 2,000 residents in Humboldt and Del Norte Counties.
Metrics from the report show progress in several areas: participation in water utility assistance programs rose by 35 percent; enrollment in California LifeLine grew by 13 percent; Cal Connect+ distributed 10 percent more devices than before; timely notifications during Public Safety Power Shutoffs reached 400,000 medically vulnerable customers; over $1 billion was awarded for broadband grants across most counties including support for Tribal communities; nearly $13 billion went toward supplier diversity initiatives.
“This is not a single moment. It is a shared, ongoing responsibility to ensure that all Californians have safe access to essential utility services. Our work must continue,” said Executive Director Peterson.
