The state has set several ambitious clean energy goals, from raising the renewable energy bar to 33 percent to modernizing the grid to enable a comprehensive digitized two-way communication flow and accommodate an influx of electric vehicles. But some have raised concerns about the adequacy of state resources and staffing. The Independent Energy Producers Association asked the governor to lift the hiring freeze at the California Public Utilities Commission and Energy Commission to allow a beefed up staff to complete requisite work to make way for a one-third renewable energy standard. It points out in a July 1 letter that both energy agencies are designing new programs and protocols to implement the one-third alternative energy level. In addition, CPUC staff review utility power purchase agreements. The CEC also has its hands full with siting renewable energy facilities. “We urge you to considering lifting the hiring freeze as it applies to the CPUC and CEC so that the necessary and complex work can be completed in a timely manner,” stated Jan Smutny Jones, IEP executive director. CPUC commissioner Mark Ferron said that of the 25 positions allocated for handling the higher renewable standard at his agency, there are 17 staff vacancies that cannot be filled while a hiring freeze is in place.