Legislators Unveil Efforts to Invest in California’s Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure
Sacramento, Calif. – On Wednesday, April 6, amidst celebrations of California Hydrogen Week, Senator Josh Newman (D-Fullerton), along with a coalition of legislators and hydrogen car drivers, announced plans to quadruple the number of hydrogen fueling stations across the state (VIDEO).
“In order for California to meet its aggressive goals on the transition away from internal combustion transportation, we’ll need more than a one-size-fits-all approach,” said Senator Newman. “Different types of drivers will need choices, and hydrogen cars and trucks will offer the best options for many Californians. By advancing hydrogen as a policy and infrastructure priority in California, SB 1329 will place our clean energy goals within reach.”
In 2020, Governor Newsom signed an executive order that requires all new cars and passenger trucks sold in California be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. To meet California’s zero-emission goals, SB 1329 will invest $300 million over the next decade to expand hydrogen fueling infrastructure.
"Battery electric vehicles aren't for everyone, particularly 'super commuters,' and those who live in large apartments without access to charging stations,” said Teresa Cooke, Executive Director of the California Hydrogen Coalition, sponsor of SB 1329. “This legislation provides a powerful incentive for more investment in the fueling stations we need to build on California's leadership in hydrogen vehicle use. It is a smart, targeted, cost-efficient proposal that will help give Californians the choice they need in zero emission vehicles."
Hydrogen vehicles are critical to meet the transportation needs of consumers averse to EV ownership, including people who live in multi-family dwellings, park on the street, have lengthy commutes and single-vehicle households. Despite the relief that hydrogen vehicles could offer, California allocates less than 3% of fueling infrastructure spending toward the expansion of the statewide hydrogen fueling station network, for both light-duty (passenger) vehicles and medium- and heavy-duty trucks.
At the current level of state funding, California’s hydrogen fueling infrastructure will cap out at 200 stations by the middle of this decade. The promise of hydrogen zero-emission vehicles will be stifled without a robust investment to build more fueling stations quickly.
Created by the California Legislature in 2007 and renewed in 2013, the Clean Transportation Program supports the development of alternative transportation energy sources and zero-emission vehicle infrastructure. SB 1329 will provide an allocation of at least $30 million annually from the Clean Transportation Program over the next decade to expand hydrogen fueling network. Additionally, the bill requires that no less than 60% of those funds go toward installations that benefit disadvantaged communities.
WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING
“In order to combat climate change, it’s critical that we reduce our carbon emissions by investing in sustainable solutions like hydrogen-powered vehicles,” said Assemblywoman Cottie Petrie-Norris (D-Irvine), coauthor of SB 1329. “I’m proud to join Senator Newman in co-authoring SB 1329 to ensure that we have enough hydrogen fueling stations to support light- and medium-duty fuel cell vehicles across the state.”
“As we develop plans for the future of California’s energy portfolio, we know that investments in clean fueling infrastructure will play a key role in in ensuring California reaches its zero-emission vehicle goals,” said Senator Dave Min (D-Irvine), coauthor of SB 1329. “I am proud to be a co-author of SB 1329, which will make crucial, long-term investments in the Golden State’s hydrogen fueling infrastructure.”
"The quick refuel time and long range of hydrogen vehicles make them an essential part of reducing California's transportation emissions,” said Assemblymember Timothy Grayson (D-Concord), coauthor of SB 1329. “I’m proud to be a co-author on SB 1329 which will pave the way for a clean hydrogen transportation network."
“Hydrogen technology has already proven to be a viable source of clean energy for our zero-emission transportation goals,” said Assemblymember Carlos Villapudua (D-Stockton), coauthor of SB 1329. “Further investments like this would help us meet the needs of every resident – many of whom need to travel long distances for work or do not have easy access to garage outlets – while putting us on a path toward unlocking more options of clean energy for our public transportation and goods-movement projects.”
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State Senator Josh Newman represents the 29th Senate District, which is comprised of portions of Los Angeles County, Orange County and San Bernardino County. The 29th District includes all or parts of the cities of Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, Chino Hills, City of Industry, Cypress, Diamond Bar, Fullerton, La Habra, La Palma, Placentia, Rowland Heights, Stanton, Walnut, West Covina and Yorba Linda. Senator Newman is a former United States Army officer, businessperson, and veterans’ advocate, and lives in Fullerton with his wife and daughter.