Gov. Josh Green announced that Public Utilities Commission Chair Leodoloff “Leo” Asuncion Jr. will be leaving his post on Nov. 17.
The Public Utilities Commission regulates all chartered, franchised, certificated and registered public utility companies operating in the state. The commission’s mission is to ensure safe, reliable and affordable utility services that are in the public interest.
“Leo’s decades of work in planning and policy, including his leadership at the (Public Utilities Commission), have provided meaningful service to Hawaiʻi,” Green said. “We appreciate his commitment to public service and wish him well in his next chapter.”
Asuncion was first appointed to the commission in 2019 by Gov. David Ige. He has served as chair since July 1, 2022.
Previously, Asuncion served as a planning program administrator before becoming director of the Department of Business, Economic Development and Tourism Office of Planning (now known as the Office of Planning and Sustainable Development).
He also served as planning program manager of the Hawaiʻi Coastal Zone Management Program from 2011 to 2013. His resume includes roles in the public and private sectors throughout Hawaiʻi and the Pacific region.
“After 11 years of being an appointee, I thank Gov. Green, as well as former Governors Ige and Abercrombie, for the opportunity to serve in a number of public service positions during this phase of my professional career,” Asuncion said. “It has truly been an honor to be of service to the state.”
Green is currently accepting applications to the Public Utilities Commission. All interested applicants must have experience in accounting, business, engineering, government, finance, law or other similar fields.
Commissioners are appointed to a six-year term, will be a full-time employee of the Public Utilities Commission only, and must not own any stocks or bonds of any public utility corporation, nor have any interest in, or derive any remuneration from, any public utility.
The successor appointed by Green will be subject to confirmation by the state Senate.
More information on the position and the Public Utilities Commission can be found on the state website.
