Senate confirms Nancy Skinner to California Energy Commission after heated debate over energy costs

The California Senate confirmed former state Senator Nancy Skinner to the California Energy Commission by a 29-10 roll call after more than two hours of floor debate on her record and the commission's authority.

Skinner, who served 14 years in the Legislature, was nominated by the governor to a seat on the five-member, unelected California Energy Commission. Senate President pro Tempore Senator Laird introduced the nomination and asked colleagues for an affirmative vote.

Supporters said Skinner’s experience on energy, climate and consumer-protection matters makes her qualified to help the state manage its clean-energy transition. “Nancy Skinner is an extraordinary person and an extraordinary leader,” said Senator Scott Wiener. Senator David Argugin added, “There’s no doubt that she’s imminently qualified to serve in this role.” Supporters pointed to Skinner’s work on energy storage, building standards and housing as evidence of relevant expertise.

Opponents framed the confirmation as a question of affordability and regulatory reach. “This is the wrong person at the wrong time in the wrong position,” said Senator Shannon Jones, urging colleagues to deny confirmation. Other critics, including Senators Alvarado Gill, Choi and Strickland, said Skinner’s legislative record expanded agency authority and increased costs for consumers. Senator Joel Sayarto warned the appointment would continue “extremist policies” that they argued worsened affordability.

Several senators urged the commission to be more accountable to the Legislature. Senator Laird said the confirmation was discussed in committee and described Skinner as qualified; he acknowledged the debate over whether agency powers have contributed to higher costs. Senator Stern, a supporter, defended standards that reduce energy consumption and described measures such as SB 49 as protections that can save consumers money over time.

After debate, the Senate recorded 29 ayes and 10 noes. The clerk announced: “Ayes, 29. Nos, 10. The appointment is confirmed.”

The confirmation gives the Energy Commission an additional member with long legislative experience on energy and housing matters. Opponents said they will watch the commission’s regulatory actions closely and pressed for stronger legislative oversight of unelected energy regulators.

The nomination and vote unfolded alongside floor references to several energy-related bills cited by senators during debate, including mentions of SB 49 and SB 59 as examples used by critics and supporters to discuss the commission’s authority and the potential cost impacts of regulations.

Votes: Ayes 29, Noes 10. The appointment is confirmed.