Bill > SB298

This bill requires the California Energy Commission, in coordination with several state agencies, to develop a comprehensive plan by December 31, 2030, addressing alternative fuel needs for oceangoing vessels at California's public seaports. The plan aims to help seaports meet their emissions reduction goals by identifying infrastructure trends, permitting barriers, and feasible locations for alternative fuel development. The bill recognizes the growing international maritime regulations targeting significant greenhouse gas emissions reductions, such as the International Maritime Organization's goals of reducing carbon intensity by 40% by 2030. The Energy Commission must convene a working group including representatives from seaports, marine operators, carriers, labor groups, environmental advocates, and various state agencies to advise on the plan's development. The bill also requires the Air Resources Board to provide information about fuels that comply with existing vessel regulations, with the broader context of maintaining California's economic competitiveness while reducing transportation-related emissions. The legislation acknowledges that losing cargo to other ports can actually increase overall greenhouse gas emissions, making strategic alternative fuel planning crucial for both environmental and economic reasons.

Agriculture and Natural Resources, Budget and Finance, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB298