Bill > SB804

This bill establishes new safety regulations for hydrogen pipelines in California, requiring the Office of the State Fire Marshal to develop comprehensive standards for dedicated hydrogen pipelines by January 1, 2028. The bill defines a "dedicated hydrogen pipeline" as a pipeline primarily transporting hydrogen gas, with a hydrogen concentration exceeding 90% by volume, and mandates that these pipelines be designed to minimize hydrogen leakage using materials compatible with hydrogen and resistant to corrosion or embrittlement. Pipeline owners will be required to install continuous monitoring systems, maintain detailed operational records, and submit annual reports documenting hydrogen concentration levels and any confirmed leakages. The legislation emphasizes the importance of hydrogen as a potential clean energy solution while prioritizing safety and environmental protection. The bill also clarifies that it does not limit the Public Utilities Commission's regulatory authority and that in cases of conflicting provisions, the more protective standard will apply. The underlying motivation is to proactively establish state-level safety standards for hydrogen infrastructure in the absence of sufficient federal regulations, recognizing hydrogen's potential role in reducing carbon emissions and supporting a sustainable energy future.

Budget and Finance, Military Affairs and Security, Transportation and Infrastructure

https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/billStatusClient.xhtml?bill_id=202520260SB804