Electrical corporations: hydrogen refueling stations

The law is intended to reduce the need for costly behind-the-meter wiring when hydrogen stations are added to sites that already have electricity service. It especially supports refueling infrastructure for heavy-duty fuel-cell vehicles.

What the law does ​

• Requires each electrical corporation to file a new or revised tariff or rule by April 1, 2027, and requires the California Public Utilities Commission to approve it by September 1, 2027.
• Requires the tariff or rule to let utilities design, build, own, operate, and maintain utility-side facilities needed to separately meter hydrogen refueling stations, including at existing sites with other electric service.
• Requires utilities to allow a dedicated revenue meter and utility-side extension for qualifying heavy-duty hydrogen stations serving vehicles weighing 14,001 pounds or more, subject to safety and reliability criteria.
• Applies existing line-extension cost-allocation rules, with applicants paying costs above their applicable allowance and receiving a good-faith cost estimate before committing or making nonrefundable payments.
• Allows the commission to add consumer and ratepayer protections, so long as eligible heavy-duty stations can receive dedicated-meter service when safety and reliability criteria are met.
• Repeals these requirements on January 1, 2033.

Who it affects ​

• Electrical corporations.
• Hydrogen refueling-station developers and operators, including stations at truck stops, travel centers, and other already-electrified sites.
• Heavy-duty fuel-cell vehicle fleets and their fueling providers.
• Utility ratepayers.

Context ​

The separate-meter requirements expire January 1, 2033.