Under Forty: Shivani Sidhar

Sempra Energy

“In my time in the regulatory business, I’ve learned nothing happens overnight. You have to get a ground swell of support in order to move the needle.”

Virginia SCC: Information Resources

Pubic Relations

“This office handles media and public relations. If people don’t know where to go at the Commission, they typically start here. We also serve as the Commission’s legislative liaison.”

Virginia SCC: Cybersecurity

Information Security

“Cyber and physical security is one of the most important issues facing utilities today, particularly the electric sector, because electricity underpins our entire society.”

Virginia SCC: Rail Safety

Safety

“Operation Lifesaver teaches safety around railroad tracks, trestles, and bridges. The Commission agreed to administer the program. We are rebuilding it.”

Virginia SCC: Railray, Pipeline, Damage Prevention

Safety

“It’s first and foremost keeping the citizens of the Commonwealth safe. Third-party damage being the leading cause, we want to put every effort we can into reducing damages, which we’ve done. We’ve hit our lowest damage ratio since we started the program.”

Virginia SCC: Alex Skirpan

Chief Hearing Examiner

“The Commission exercises both legislative and judicial power. Most utility matters, like setting rates, are legislative cases. Judicial cases usually involve fines or someone showing why they should not have a license taken away.”

Virginia SCC: Sam Nixon

Chief Admin. Officer

“In Virginia, the SCC is not just a utility Commission. It’s also the banking Commission and the insurance Commission. We also oversee railroad safety, gas pipeline safety, and security brokers.”