Working Across Agencies and Beyond Borders
Participating agencies in ICAT include the Governor’s Office, the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the California Air Resources Board, the California Energy Commission, the California Natural Resources Agency, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, the California Public Employee’s Retirement Agency, the California Department of Food and Agriculture, and the Department of Insurance. Through the ICAT members, California works with partners to take action on climate change impacts.
Global Partners
California’s Governor and state leadership have signed bilateral and multilateral agreements with national and subnational leaders to strengthen the global response to the threat of climate change and to promote a healthy and prosperous future for all citizens.
Bilateral Agreements
Signed: May 15, 2024
Term: 5 Years
The Letter of Cooperation (LOC) between California and South Australia was signed during a visit from Premier Peter Malinauskas to Sacramento. It highlights several areas of climate collaboration, including the deployment of clean energy and energy storage, and the development of clean, renewable hydrogen. Both California and South Australia are global leaders in advancing the clean energy transition and have set ambitious goals to achieve 100 percent clean electricity. Both are members of the Mediterranean Climate Action Partnership (MCAP), which was launched at the 2023 United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP28) in Dubai, and both are committed to research, innovation, and international cooperation aimed at addressing shared challenges, building competitiveness, and accelerating a just and equitable green transition.
Press Release: California and South Australia Sign New Climate Partnership - Lieutenant Governor
Government of the Commonwealth of Australia
Signed: August 15, 2023
Term: Five Years
The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of the Commonwealth of Australia and the Government of the State of California of the United States of America establishes a flexible framework to expand collaboration on climate action. Common objectives include, but are not limited to, progress on net-zero emissions and carbon neutrality goals; the development of climate and disaster resilience through adaptation and mitigation; and the scale-up of clean technologies and strategies. In addition to the MOU, Governor Newsom and Ambassador Rudd signed a Joint Statement affirming their partnership on climate action.
Press Release: Governor Newsom Announces New Climate Partnership With Australia | California Governor
YouTube Video of the MOU signing ceremony (starts at 26:50): Governor Newsom Joins Australian Ambassador to the U.S. for Climate Announcement - YouTube
Government of Canada - Climate Action and Nature Protection
English Version
French Version
Signed: June 9, 2022
Term: Five Years
This Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) was signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles, on June 9, 2022. Key areas of focus include climate change mitigation and adaptation solutions to prevent biodiversity loss; the reduction of greenhouse gases and air pollutants from vehicles, engines, and fuels. Further, the MOC includes collaboration on clean and renewable fuel standards and charging infrastructure; and the adoption and scale up of clean technologies such as hydrogen, carbon capture, utilization and storage, and the transition to clean energy. Finally, the MOC seeks to further environmental protection with a focus on nature-based solutions to combat the impacts of climate change, and the reduction of plastics waste and pollution with a focus on circular economy. Both California and Canada are working to accelerate action on biodiversity conservation in the face of the climate crisis. Both have, or are developing, adaptation strategies. And both are committed to engaging the knowledge, customary practices, and cultural values of Indigenous peoples. The implementing authorities for this MOC are the California Environmental Protection Agency and Environment and Climate Change Canada.
Press Release: At Summit of the Americas, California and Canada Partner to Advance Bold Climate Action | California Governor
Cooperation on Mitigation Measures to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Signed: June 26, 2019
Term: Five Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), entered into by the California Air Resources Board of the State of California, and the Department of Environmental and Climate Change Canada of the Government of Canada, expresses the real and urgent need to collaborate on solutions to help mitigate the devastating impacts of climate change. The purpose of this MOU is to promote and carry out cooperative activities on policy and regulatory measures that reduce emissions from greenhouse gases and air pollutants according to Environment and Climate Change Canada and the California Air Resources Board’s respective competencies and based on principles of equality, reciprocity, information exchange, and mutual benefit. Specifically highlighted within this MOU is the role of cleaner vehicles, engines, and fuels, to help combat climate change and reduce air pollution, the deeply integrated North American auto sector, and the need to ensure that all communities benefit from the transition to clean transportation – particularly those which are disadvantaged.
Signed: December 17, 2009
Term: No Expiration
This MOU is an active measure resulting from the establishment of the Pacific Coast Collaborative (June 2008, Article 6) and the MOU between the Province of British Columbia and the State of California on the Pacific Coast Collaboration to Protect Our Shared Climate and Ocean (May 2007). Further, this MOU expresses the commitment of both parties to move forward in partnership on the development of greenhouse gas vehicle emission standards in British Columbia consistent with California’s laws and regulations.
Signed: September 27, 2009
Term: No Expiration
The objective of this agreement was for the parties to work jointly and collaboratively toward the harmonization and integration of cap-and-trade programs for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
National Forest Corporation - PDF
Signed: November 10, 2016
Term: 5 years
This MOU promotes joint partnership and cooperation to reduce vulnerabilities and increase resilience to climate change and wildfire threats. Both sides pledge to share best practices, communication strategies, research and technologies, and training opportunities to enhance and promote wildfire prevention and wildland-urban interface awareness to at-risk populations.
National Emergency Office of the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security - PDF
Signed: November 9, 2016
Term: No Expiration
This MOU builds on the Chile-California 21st Century Partnership and Joint Declaration to Cooperate in Emergency Disasters, an MOU signed on April 10, 2010. It focuses on improving efficiencies and capabilities within emergency management by committing to share best practices, expertise, technology, training and research in the areas of drought response, and earthquake and tsunami alert and warning systems.
Joint Declaration on Climate Change - PDF
Signed: September 2015
Term: No Expiration
This Joint Declaration builds on the Chile-California Plan, which spanned many diverse areas of cooperation, and was signed on the day the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly opened. This Declaration, in advance of COP21 in Paris, was made to express a common vision for a cleaner and sustainable world as well as the need to achieve the ultimate goal established by the UNFCC, which is to stabilize the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere and keep warming below 2 degrees Celsius. Further, this Declaration includes a commitment to develop a common work plan on climate change.
Signed: October 28, 2023
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the State of California and Jiangsu Province builds on years of engagement and seeks to strengthen partnership by establishing a flexible framework for collaboration to address climate change, protect the environment, and advance the development of clean energy. Areas of Cooperation include, but are not limited to, energy efficiency; carbon peaking and carbon neutrality; air quality; climate adaptation and mitigation; clean transportation; clean energy and low-carbon development; nature-based climate solutions; and circular economy. This MOU specifies entities, within the State of California and the Province of Jiangsu respectively, to coordinate on the establishment of an action plan to ensure progress and implementation of the MOU objectives.
Press Release: Saturday in China: Offshore Wind + Wetlands + High Speed Rail | California Governor
Press Release: What Governor Newsom’s Trip to China Accomplished | California Governor
Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment
Signed: October 28, 2023
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Shanghai Municipal Bureau of Ecology and Environment and the California Air Resources Board has a strong focus on air quality improvement and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. The MOU clearly states the intention to cooperate on protecting the environment, combating climate change, and advancing clean energy development through initiatives focused particularly on, but not limited to, the following: air quality; greenhouse gas emissions; clean transportation, clean energy; climate adaptation and resilience; and nature-based climate solutions. Common objectives are clearly stated and include a focus on the development and implementation of carbon neutrality plans and the advancement of clean, low-carbon transportation, including the development of clean ports and green shipping.
Press Release: Governor Newsom’s Last Day in China Advances New Climate Partnership with Shanghai | California Governor
Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau
Signed: October 26, 2023
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) builds on years of cooperation between the California Environmental Protection Agency and the Beijing Municipal Ecology and Environment Bureau on topics related to environmental science and policies. It goes further to include cooperation on climate action and includes common objectives to protect the environment, combat climate change, and advance clean energy development. Areas of Cooperation include, but are not limited to, the following: environmental management legislation, policy and regulation; climate mitigation and adaptation strategies; air quality management; informational exchanges and capacity building; public education; pilot projects; water quality management, solid waste management, biodiversity protection, and other environmental affairs. On the California side, the California Air Resources Board is the lead California-based entity for MOU coordination and cooperation and will work closely with the California-China Climate Institute at the University of California Berkeley, which will serve as the Secretariat for the MOU.
Press Release: At China’s Great Wall, Momentum Builds for Climate Action | California Governor
National Development and Reform Commission
Signed: October 25, 2023
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) seeks to enhance and strengthen cooperation on low-carbon development and green transition between the State of California and the National Development and Reform Commission of the People's Republic of China. It builds on prior cooperation between the signatories and establishes a flexible framework to continue collaboration on combating climate change, protecting the environment, and advancing clean energy development. Areas of Cooperation include a focus on mitigating carbon emissions; decarbonizing the power sector; energy planning; energy efficiency; transportation electrification and related infrastructure and technologies; the development of offshore wind - including port, workforce, and supply chain development; activities aimed at accelerating critical clean technologies; and climate resiliency. MOU implementation will include various key entities from both governments. From the California side, specific entities include the California Air Resources Board along with the California Environmental Protection Agency, the California Natural Resources Agency, and the California Energy Commission.
Press Release: Governor Newsom Meets with Chinese President Xi Jinping | California Governor
Signed: October 24, 2023
Term: 3 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Government of Guangdong Province and the State of California builds on a long history or cooperation, including a sister State/Province relationship established in September 2014. The primary focus of the MOU is on green development. The Areas of Cooperation include, but are not limited to, the following: air pollution prevention and control; zero-emission vehicles; climate change adaptation and mitigation, nature-based solutions and biodiversity protection; carbon neutrality, and deep decarbonization; carbon capture, storage, and utilization; carbon emissions trading; and climate investment and financing. On the California side, the designated Executive Agencies responsible for coordination and implementation of cooperative activities include the California Air Resources Board, the California Environmental Protection Agency, the California Natural Resources Agency, and the California Energy Commission.
Press Release: Governor Newsom Visits China’s Greater Bay Area | California Governor
The Government of Hainan Province of the People's Republic of China - PDF
Signed: August 3, 2023
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding creates a flexible framework for Hainan Province and the State of California to cooperate on combating climate change, protecting the environment, and advancing clean energy deployment - including accelerating widespread adoption of zero-emission and new-energy vehicles. Both California and Hainan commit to exploring solutions to reduce air pollution and carbon emissions and advance medium and long-term low-carbon development as they strive toward carbon neutrality. Specific areas of cooperation include, but are not limited to, climate action and air quality; clean transportation; clean energy and clean technologies; and nature-based solutions.
California and Chinese Province of Hainan Partner to Fight Climate Change | California Governor
The Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the Peoples Republic of China
English Version
Chinese Version
Signed: April 18 (China) and 19 (California), 2022
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed during a virtual, online, meeting between Governor Newsom and China's Minister of Ecology and Environment (MEE), Huang Runqiu. The MOU builds on previous cooperation between California and China, and renews a prior version that was signed by Governor Brown in 2018. This renewed version of the MOU creates a flexible framework for collaboration and the development of strategies aimed at achieving carbon neutrality, promoting nature-based solutions, and advancing climate-resilient infrastructure. The MOU Participants respectively designate the Department of International Cooperation of the MEE and the California Environmental Protection Agency, along with the California Natural Resources Agency, the California Air Resources Board, and the California Energy Commission to establish the creation of an action plan to implement the objectives of this MOU. On the California side, the California-China Climate Institute at the University of California, Berkeley, will serve as the primary liaison for communication and information exchange.
Zhangjiakou City Energy Bureau of Zhangjiakou Municipal People's Government - PDF
Signed: August 12, 2021
Term: Three Years
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is to establish a flexible framework between the participants to expand cooperation on energy and decarbonization policies and practices, with specific focus on supporting the acceleration of zero-emission transportation. Under the guidelines of this MOU, the participants aim to accelerate the transition to cleaner transportations systems powered by carbon-free grids; quickly and effectively integrate a wide range of zero-emission vehicles put to a wide range of uses; and examine best practices and lessons learned regarding the integration of hydrogen fuel into existing municipal systems and existing grid infrastructure.
Ministry of Ecology and the Environment of the People’s Republic of China - PDF
Signed: September 12, 2018
Term: No Expiration
This MOU was signed at the China Pavilion, during the Global Climate Action Summit in San Francisco. It seeks to further strengthen and coordinate efforts to combat climate change and promote clean and efficient energy, while protecting public health, the environment, and natural resources. The Parties agree to cooperate on the basis of the principles of equality and mutual benefit. Key areas of focus include, but are not limited to, activities to mitigate carbon emissions, control carbon dioxide, methane and other greenhouse gases; enhancing air pollution control strategies for the industrial and transportation sectors; reducing short lived climate forcers and mitigating hydrofluorocarbons; the implementation of carbon emissions trading systems; and the reduction of energy consumption through improvements in energy efficiency.
Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries - PDF
Signed: September 12, 2018
Term: No Expiration
Signed at the China Pavilion, during the Global Climate Action Summit in San Francisco, this Joint Statement/Declaration on Friendship, Economic Development, and Climate Change expresses the intent to establish the California-China Program coordinated by the California Governor’s Office and the Chinese Friendship Association, and affiliated with the US-China Governors’ Forum. One of the goals of the California-China Program will be to enhance the bilateral relationship and foster collaboration by building and ensuring a regular dialogue between California and subnational Chinese counterparts in critical areas of mutual interest.
Zhenjiang Municipal People’s Government - PDF
Signed: December 7, 2015
Term: No Expiration
The MOU is a Plan of Actions on Low-Carbon Cooperation between Zhenjiang Municipal People’s Government and the State of California. It builds on a previous MOU signed by the Parties in Los Angeles months earlier, on September 15, 2015, and aims to strengthen cooperation on low carbon development in an effort to maximize contributions to addressing climate change. Areas of joint focus include low-carbon urban planning, low carbon industries, renewable and clean energy, low-carbon transportation, new-energy vehicles, clean water industry, eco-building, energy conservation, energy-efficiency, and high-efficiency agriculture. Furthermore, the MOU promotes regular technical exchanges.
Signed: October 5, 2015
Term: No Expiration
In order to enhance cooperation on low-carbon development and climate change and contribute to the implementation of the 2014 Sino-US Joint Declaration on Climate Change, this MOU provides a framework for the Participants to carry out practical exchanges and cooperation in the areas of low-carbon smart cities planning, the promotion of clean energy, and the reduction of carbon emissions. Additionally, this MOU states the intent of the Participants to reduce air pollutants, including carbon emissions related to port activities.
Municipality of Zhenjiang - PDF
Signed: September 15, 2015
Term: No Expiration
This MOU seeks to contribute to the implementation of the 2014 Sino-US Joint Declaration on Climate Change through joint cooperation on low carbon development and climate change. It provides a framework for carrying out practical exchanges and cooperation with specific focus on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, energy efficiency, and the development of low carbon smart cities and clean technologies. Additionally, this MOU contains an appendix stating Zhenjiang’s intent to endorse the Under2 MOU.
Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region of China - PDF
Signed: October 14, 2013
Term: No Expiration
This MOU builds on the Memorandum of Understanding on the Establishment of a Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment Cooperation that was signed between Chinese Provinces and California. This MOU seeks to expand cooperation in the fields of trade and investment, with specific focus on the following areas: industrialization of agriculture and animal husbandry; rare earth, coal, and nonferrous metals; new energy development and ecological environmental protection; infrastructure, equipment manufacturing, and modern logistics; biological medicine; cultural tourism; finance; information industry; and modern service industry. This MOU has been inactive and should be reviewed and reevaluated.
Signed: April 15, 2013
Term: No Expiration
This MOU states the intent of the State of California and the Province of Guangdong to engage in friendly exchange and cooperation in an effort to strengthen cooperation in multiple areas, including, but not limited to, science and technological innovation, environmental conservation, and renewable and sustainable energy.
Signed: April 14, 2013
Term: No Expiration
This MOU on friendly cooperation was signed in Nanjing and promotes friendly exchanges in culture, humanities, and the promotion of pragmatic cooperation. Areas of cooperation include new energy and information technology.
National Ministry of Commerce - PDF
Signed: April 10, 2013
Term: No Expiration
This MOU establishes the China Provinces and US California Joint Working Group on Trade and Investment Cooperation, which seeks to expand trade and investment cooperation, strengthen communication, enhance trust, boost economic growth, and create jobs. This MOU was born out of the consensus reached between California Governor, Edmund G. Brown Jr. and China’s President Xi (then Vice President Xi), in February 2012. Energy, environmental protection, infrastructure, information technology, agriculture, and manufacturing are included amongst the various sectors of cooperation.
Signed: February 8, 2024
Term: ~22 months, ends December 31, 2024
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Danish Energy Agency and the California Energy Commission extends the existing partnership between the two participants and combines previous areas of focus into one MOU. Additionally, the amendments to the MOU signed August 13, 2024, incorporates the California Public Utilities Commission into the existing partnership. The purpose of this MOU is to establish a flexible framework between the participants to promote sharing of knowledge, experiences, data, and best practices relevant to offshore wind energy and the decarbonization of the industrial, agricultural, and building sectors.
Ministry of the Environment of Denmark
Signed: March 9, 2021
Term: Five Years
Summary: Following a previous MOU signed in 2017, Denmark and California have committed to work together on climate-smart and climate-resilient water management, through digitalization, wastewater resource recovery, water loss reduction, sustainable groundwater management, and reducing the climate impacts of the water sector. The MOU encourages collaboration on scientific and technological innovation, finance and entrepreneurship, as well as policy exchanges.
Press Release: Denmark and California Sign a New MOU to Strengthen Collaboration on How to Develop a Climate-Resilient Water Sector
Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries of Denmark
Signed: January 21, 2021
Term: 5 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed virtually, between the California Department of Food and Agriculture of the State of California and the Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Fisheries of Denmark seeks to establish a flexible framework to promote mutually beneficial relationships between the Participants in the field of agricultural technology and on-farm resource management. The MOU specifically focuses on dairy operations and the role of agriculture in addressing current global, national, regional, and local food security needs and environmental challenges relating to climate change.
The Government of the Kingdom of Denmark - PDF
Signed: September 19, 2017
Term: 5 years
This MOU is focused on water and climate issues. The Parties have agreed to work cooperatively to promote a mutually beneficial relationship in the field of water technology, management, and regulation.
Government of the French Republic - PDF
Signed: December 7, 2015
Term: 4 years
This Joint Declaration to Support Sustainable Economic Development was signed alongside the COP21 in Paris, France. It states the commitment by both Parties to share and cooperate in the application of sustainable policies and practices. Mutually beneficial areas of cooperation and development include climate change mitigation, carbon pricing, adaptation and resiliency, water management, transportation, clean energy, sustainable buildings and cities, and the development of solutions at the regional and local level.
Land Baden-Württemberg, Federal Republic of Germany - PDF
Signed: September 15, 2018
Term: No Expiration
Over the years, California and Baden Württemberg have enjoyed a strong bilateral relationship. In 2015, California and Baden Württemberg jointly launched the Under2 Coalition as an initiative for climate protection. That Coalition has since developed into a worldwide movement of subnational governments committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and limiting the increase in global warming. This Sister-State Agreement expresses the intention of California and Baden Württemberg to engage in future mutually beneficial cooperation in the areas of climate, energy and environmental policies, transportation transformation, urban infrastructure development, economic cooperation, information technology, science, research, arts, and culture.
Government of the State of Israel - PDF
Signed: June 24, 2014
Term: No Expiration
This MOU states the intent of the Office of the Chief Scientist of the Ministry of Economy of the State of Israel and the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development of the State of California to cooperate in industrial research and development in order to enhance their industrial competitiveness and strengthen economic and commercial cooperation. This MOU builds on the MOU previously signed between the Parties on March 5, 2014.
Government of the State of Israel - PDF
Signed: March 5, 2014
Term: No Expiration
Seeking to expand the current level of cooperation between Israel and California, this MOU establishes a formal relationship to foster economic cooperation and economic development, facilitate joint industrial research and development, and enhance business relationships and educational opportunities aimed at fostering job creation and the incubation of global solutions from joint California-Israel innovation initiatives. Key sectors of focus include: water conservation and management, alternative energy and related clean technologies, health and biotechnology solutions, cyber security, arts and culture, education, and agricultural technologies.
Signed: May 17, 2024
Term: 3 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed by California Governor Gavin Newsom and Emilia-Romagna President Stefano Bonaccini, outlines three years of collaboration to advance clean transportation, transition to clean energy, practice climate-smart agriculture, deploy nature-based solutions, and protect air quality and biodiversity. The MOU signing took place in Bologna, Rome, following Governor Newsom’s remarks at the Vatican Climate Summit the previous day, where he addressed world leaders on the urgency of the climate crisis, highlighted California’s climate action as a model for governments around the world, and joined His Holiness Pope Francis, and other leaders, in signing a Planetary Compact aimed at accelerating global efforts to combat the climate crisis and build climate resilience.
This MOU demonstrates the critical leadership role of subnational governments and deepens the commitment by both California and Emilia-Romagna, both members of the Under2 Coalition, to develop and share common policies on key issues of our time toward the benefit of all.
Press Release: In Bologna, Governor Newsom launches new climate partnership | Governor of California
Press Release: Governor Newsom joins Pope Francis at the Vatican, calls for climate action | Governor of California
Youtube Video of Governor Newsom’s Remarks at the Vatican Climate Summit - YouTube
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism – Rail Transportation
Signed: June 10 and 18, 2024
Term: 2 Years
This Letter of Intent (LOI) between the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) of Japan and the California State Transportation Agency builds upon prior cooperative agreements and references the Memorandum of Cooperation signed in 2022, which aimed to strengthen efforts to combat climate change and economic and trade relations between the Government of Japan and the State of California – with an emphasis on renewable energy, zero-emission vehicles, and transportation. This, more recent LOI, aims to advance California’s goal to align state transportation investments with the state’s climate, health, and social equity goals through investment and development of an integrated, statewide rail and transit network, with seamless, affordable, and accessible multimodal travel options, including high-speed rail. While both California and Japan work toward carbon neutrality, and specifically decarbonization of its rail and transit systems, there will be opportunities to share best practices, engage in policy and technical exchanges, and gain insight from real-world, urban planning and infrastructure development in both our regions.
Port Decarbonization and Green Shipping Corridors
Signed: March 14, 2023
Term: 2 Years
In furtherance of the 2022 Japan-California Climate Change and Trade Memorandum of Cooperation, this Letter of Intent between the State of California and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan (MLIT) seeks to deepen cooperation, information-sharing, and the discussion of best practices to support the development of green shipping corridors, the expansion of offshore wind, and increased decarbonization of ports in Japan and California. From the State of California, this Letter of Intent will be led by an interagency team from the following entities: the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development, the California State Transportation Agency, the California Air Resources Board, and the California Energy Commission.
New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization
Signed: December 12 and 14, 2022
Term: 3 Years
California and Japan share a history of strong cooperation on trade and investment, as well as shared goals to accelerate the transition to clean and renewable energy. In the spirit of cooperation, and in an effort to achieve greater energy efficiency and decarbonization in the building sector, this Letter of Intent (LOI) between the California Energy Commission (CEC) and Japan's New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) provides the foundation for collaboration on the development of a demonstration project for a Flexible Energy Management System (EMS) Demonstration Project. The objective of the project is to facilitate broad dissemination of energy-related technologies that contribute to load flexibility and building decarbonization in both California and Japan.
Signed: March 21, 2022
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) was signed in Sacramento during a meeting between Governor Newsom and Japanese Ambassador to the United States, Koji Tomita. The MOC builds on previous collaboration and will serve as a flexible framework to strengthen economic cooperation and investment between California and Japan. It includes specific focus on tackling climate change and accelerating the transition to clean transportation. Additional areas of focus include, but are not limited to, renewable energy, energy storage, business exchanges, zero emission vehicles, public transportation, high-speed rail, and water conservation and management. On the California side, engagement will be led by the Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA), and the California State Transportation Agency (CalSTA).
Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC)
Signed: March 5, 2021
Term: 5 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), between the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) and the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development (GO-Biz), focuses on enhancing the strong trade relationship between California and Japan. It will serve as a framework for cooperation aimed at increasing prosperity in both regions by strengthening economic ties and collaboration in the areas of environmental preservation and the development of high-quality infrastructure. In order to boost economic development, sustainability, and resilience the MOU focuses on specific areas of cooperation including, but not limited to, the following sectors: environmental protection; clean mobility; energy production and storage; demand flexibility and energy efficiency codes and standards for buildings and appliances; water production, distribution, and conservation; and logistics and smart cities.
Signed: September 5, 2016
Term: 4 Years
Both California and Japan share concerns about the threat of climate change as outlined in the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, as well as the Scientific Consensus Statement on Maintaining Humanity’s Life Support Systems in the 21st Century. Given the global nature of climate change, this MOU states the intent of both Parties to promote dialogue and joint projects on climate change mitigation and adaptation, short-lived climate pollutants, and cleaner freight transport. Additionally, the Parties agree to promote dialogue and joint projects on clean energy technology trade and deployment, with a particular focus on energy efficiency and renewable energy development. The Parties also agree to cooperate and support the expansion and use of energy storage technologies, while encouraging economic and business development related to the clean technology sector, zero-emission vehicles, high-speed rail, and water conservation and management.
New Energy & Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)
Signed: September 10, 2015
Term: June 30, 2020
This MOU builds upon the original framework set forth in the Memorandum of Cooperation on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, Trade and Investment, Vehicles, High-Speed Rail, and Water between the Government of Japan and the State of California of the United States of America dated September 5, 2014, and defines the objective and outline of the project, which is to demonstrate that a redox flow battery can be used for both fast response and long duration applications and would provide significant assistance for issues caused by increased use of renewable energy resources.
New Energy & Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO)
Signed: September 10, 2015
Term: June 30, 2020
This MOU builds upon the original framework set forth in the Memorandum of Cooperation on Climate Change, Renewable Energy, Trade and Investment, Vehicles, High-Speed Rail, and Water, that was signed between the Parties on September 5, 2014, and supersedes the Letter of Intent for Cooperation in a feasibility study between the Parties concerning the demonstration project for electric vehicle driving behavior, dated October 14, 2014.
Specifically, this MOU clarifies previous agreements and provides the objective, outline, and implementation schedule of the joint project to deploy DC Fast Chargers and monitor EV Driving Behavior.
Signed: June 11, 2013
Term: No Expiration
This MOU builds on the existing Sister-State relationship between Osaka Prefecture and the State of California. Signed by Governors Matsui and Brown, it expresses the intent to support and encourage economic and trade cooperation between the two Parties in the areas of clean energy, environmental protection, information technology, bio-tech, manufacturing, and tourism. Additionally, the Parties agree to support and encourage cooperation on the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the promotion of low-carbon development, mutual understanding and friendship, higher education, and trade and investment.
Baja California Energy Commission
English
Signed: August 22, 2024
Term: in force until August 22, 2028
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), between the Baja California Energy Commission and the California Energy Commission, aims to strengthen cooperation on clean energy between our two neighboring states, and builds on decades of previous cross-border engagement under previous MOU's.
Baja California's electric grid is interconnected with California's but is islanded from the rest of Mexico; as such, coordination with Baja California will focus on electric system reliability and decarbonization. Additional areas of coordination will include building energy efficiency, industrial decarbonization, electric mobility, development of the clean energy supply chain and clean energy research and development.
The MOU was signed at the California Energy Commission offices at the California Natural Resources Agency HQ at the culmination of a week-long clean energy tour of California the CEC planned for the Baja Energy Commission to help accelerate cross-border collaboration.
Secretariat of the Environment of the Government of Mexico City
English
Español
Signed: April 21, 2023
Term: in force until October 4, 2024
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), between the Secretariat of the Environment of Mexico City (SEDEMA), the California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) and the California Energy Commission (CEC), aims to strengthen cooperation on energy, environmental protection and climate action, replacing a previous MOU signed in 2019.
Specific areas of cooperation include energy efficiency; emissions monitoring, reporting, verification, and enforcement; clean energy technology and alternatives; air quality; waste management; and circular economy. The MOU was signed at Quinta Colorada in Bosque de Chapultepec following the California-Mexico 2030 Summit.
State of Jalisco of the United Mexican States - PDF
Signed: March 9, 2022
Term: December 9, 2023
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is focused on building cooperation on clean energy policies and programs between the State of Jalisco of the United Mexican States and the Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission (California Energy Commission) of the State of California of the United States of American. This MOU builds on previous agreements and recognizes the value of sharing knowledge, experiences, data, and best practices in areas of mutual interest. Specific areas of cooperation include, but are not limited to, energy efficiency, including building and appliance codes and standards, demand-side management; the development of renewable energy and grid integration; integrated resource planning; microgrid design, operation, and management; low and zero-emission vehicles; clean energy technology; and energy storage. The MOU also includes the intention to foster joint research and development projects, promotion of sustainable economic development, and assistance to businesses to promote trade and opportunities.
Ministry of Economy of the United Mexican States - In English - PDF | En Español - PDF
Signed: October 4, 2019
Term: 4 Years
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding is to establish a formal and flexible framework between California and Mexico in order to expand trade and investment cooperation, foster scientific and technological collaboration, promote export products diversification, and boost economic development and job creation. In the Areas of Cooperation, California and Mexico commit to strengthen and facilitate trade and investment cooperation through initiatives focused particularly on, but not limited to, the following areas of cooperation:
- Creative industries
- Digital economy and Industry 4.0
- Micro, small and medium enterprises
- Alternative and Renewable Energy
- Environmental Protection and other Related Clean Technologies
- Agriculture and Agricultural Technologies
- Workforce Development
- Infrastructure for cross-border goods movement and trade facilitation
Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the United Mexican States - In English - PDF | En Español - PDF
Signed: October 4, 2019
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) is entered into between the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the United Mexican States (SADER) and the Department of Food and Agriculture of the State of California of the United States of America (CDFA). The objective of the MOU is to strengthen communication and cooperation as it relates to agricultural production, rural development, trade, climate adaptation, and research. Given the significance of agriculture to both Mexico and California, the participants agree to promote cooperation and exchange of information on climate change adaptation for farmers and ranchers; to cooperate on food safety issues; plant and animal health; cross-border inspections; transportation logistics and trade issues; and to promote cooperation in agricultural workforce development.
Signed: December 7, 2018
Term: No Expiration
This Memorandum of Cooperation further implements initial priority focus areas identified in the Imperial County-Mexicali Air Quality Work Plan and aims to improve air quality in the border region. Through enhanced availability of air quality data to better understand the causes and severity of air pollution in the region, this agreement aims to facilitate enforcement and regulation of applicable air quality laws in Mexicali by allowing focused control efforts on sources causing the increased concentrations of particulate matter (PM). The purpose of this Memorandum of Cooperation is to provide for the establishment and operation of a network of 50 PM air sensors in Mexicali, Baja California, by the Municipality. The sensors will be used to enhance PM monitoring in the municipality, facilitate exchange of information related to air quality in the region, and enhance the capacity of municipal authorities to enforce regulations to limit activities known to adversely impact air quality. The ownership of the sensors will remain with the California Air Resources Board and all responsibilities for the operation and maintenance of the sensors will be carried out by the Mexicali municipality. Quarterly submittal of inspection reports will be sent to the California Air Resources Board for three years from the date of signature of this agreement.
Secretariat of Agriculture Development of the State of Baja California - PDF
Signed: June 14, 2016
Term: 4 years
The objective of this MOU, between the Baja California’s Secretariat of Agriculture Development and California’s Department of Food and Agriculture, is to establish a framework for the Parties to carry out cooperative activities and exchange information in the areas of animal health, plant health, and food safety. One of the modalities of cooperation includes the promotion of natural resources in the region by way of maintaining the ecological and economic sustainability of the Parties.
Signed: August 26, 2014
Term: No Expiration
This MOU, between Mexico’s Secretariat of Tourism and the State of California, seeks to develop and strengthen cooperation between the two Parties within the tourism sector.
National Ministry of Economy - PDF
Signed: July 30, 2014
Term: No Expiration
The purpose of this MOU is to establish a formal and flexible framework between the Participants in order to strengthen trade and investment cooperation and communication, enhance trust, boost economic development, create jobs, and foster scientific and technological collaboration for business development in key emerging sectors, including, but not limited to, advanced manufacturing, alternative and renewable energy, environmental protection and other related clean technologies, information technologies, cross-border goods movement infrastructure, and agriculture and agricultural technologies.
National Ministry of Labor & Social Welfare - PDF
Signed: July 30, 2014
Term: No Expiration
This Letter of Intent to Cooperate on a Migrant Worker Pilot Program states the intent of the State of California and Mexico’s Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare to cooperate in the creation of a voluntary pilot program aimed at preventing abuses in the recruitment of Mexican H-2 temporary workers.
Signed: July 12, 2013
Term: No Expiration
California has effective and transparent vehicle inspection control systems, which over the years have resulted in vastly improved air quality, and Mexico has made a commitment to implement the enforcement of a modern environmental protection policy, that shall be inclusive, effective, and transparent regarding the control of contaminant emissions and vehicle inspection. Beyond strengthening friendship, cooperation, and institutional ties, this Letter of Intent Regarding Environmental Protection initiates a process of evaluation and implementation of mechanisms for collaboration and exchange in the area of technology transfer of Verification Centers’ Control Systems operated in California, with the goal of reducing emissions of contaminants and training public officers in the State of Mexico for the use of such systems.
Government of Provincie Noord-Holland – Advanced Air Mobility
Signed: March 20, 2024
Term: 3 Years
This Letter of Intent (LOI), signed in Sacramento, between the King’s Commissioner from the Government of Provincie Noord-Holland, the California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research, and the California State Transportation Agency builds on the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in September 2022, by the California Protection Agency (CalEPA) Secretary, Yana Garcia, and Dutch State Secretary, Vivianne Heijnen, during a royal visit from Queen Maxima. It establishes a framework to exchange experience and knowledge related to the integration of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) into the transportation system, focusing efforts on equity, sustainability (including emissions and circularity), investment and educational opportunities, land use policies and a healthy and safe living environment.
Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management of the Netherlands
Signed: September 6, 2022
Term: Five Years
On the occasion of the Royal Visit of Her Majesty Queen Máxima of the Netherlands to California, Dutch Minister for the Environment Vivianne Heijnen and California Secretary for Environmental Protection Yana Garcia signed a new Memorandum of Understanding to promote bilateral collaboration on climate action. Building on past Letters of Intent (LOIs) between the two governments, the new MOU establishes shared objectives around carbon-neutral societies, circular economies and equity, with a focus on long-term climate strategies, zero-emission mobility, nature-based solutions, climate resilience and short-lived climate pollutants.
Link to Press Release: California and the Netherlands Forge Partnership on Climate Action
Letter of Intent - Kingdom of the Netherlands and State of California
Signed: November 13, 2019
Term: 5 Years
This Letter of Intent builds on the established relationship and years of collaboration between California and the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Both have committed to stringent climate change programs in order to meet aggressive greenhouse gas reductions by 2030. Further, both California and the Kingdom of The Netherlands are working toward transitioning to sustainable economies through the acceleration of zero emission transportation, energy innovation, and zero waste initiatives. In pursuit of shared goals, California and the Netherlands agree to cooperate in the following areas: Sustainable Mobility, Circular Economy, and Climate Change and Resiliency.
National Ministry of Infrastructure and the Environment - PDF
Signed: March 24, 2017
Term: No Expiration
This Letter of Intent on Environmental cooperation is the second renewal of the Letter of Intent signed initially in Sacramento, on October 30, 2013, and then again on March 3, 2015, in The Hague. The initial Letter of Intent, from 2013, referred to the MOU between the California Plug-in Electric Vehicle Collaborative and the Coast to Coast e-Mobility Connection as endorsers of the collaboration.
This most recent version of the Letter of Intent on Environmental Cooperation builds on cooperation with other national and subnational jurisdictions to accelerate the electrification of transportation through the International Zero-Emission Vehicle Alliance (ZEV Alliance) and the Agreement to establish the Coast to Coast Sustainable Investment Finance Program on Smart and e-Mobility (C2C SIF).
In this Letter of Intent, the two Parties note that successful collaboration has also enabled the Working Agreements between the Province of Noord-Holland and the California Energy Commission and the California Department of Transportation to collaborate on knowledge exchange and implementation of SolaRoad.
Kingdom of the Netherlands - PDF
Signed: January 9, 2017
Term: 2 Years
This Letter of Intent reaffirms the cooperation on Climate Change, Smart and e-Mobility, and Energy Innovation between California and the Kingdom of the Netherlands and bases continued commitment on the success of former and active cooperation between the two regions. Additionally, this Letter of Intent promotes the exchange of information and understanding with respect to stimulating access to capital and finance for young, innovative companies in an effort to advance ZEV and Smart Mobility market deployment in both regions.
Signed: May 27, 2022
Term: Five Years
This Memorandum of Cooperation (MOC) was signed in San Francisco and highlights the significant actions on climate change and long-term goals to achieve carbon neutrality shared by New Zealand California. It builds upon a Joint Declaration signed in 2021, between California, New Zealand, and Québec to strengthen cooperation in the fight against climate change.
In addition to the specific areas of cooperation, which include, but are not limited to, transportation electrification; emission trading schemes; clean energy; nature-based solutions; climate smart agriculture; and circular economy, this MOC puts particular focus on working in partnership with indigenous people and leaders to develop and implement solutions to unique difficulties facing indigenous communities exacerbated by climate change.
Signed: April 16, 2024
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) considers the urgent need to accelerate the global expansion of clean, renewable energy and economy-wide decarbonization, while also recognizing recent commitments to responsibly develop floating offshore wind energy resources in deep coastal waters. It recognizes the common goals shared by California and Norway to ensure access to affordable, reliable energy while supporting the transition to a net zero economy and to strengthen reductions in harmful greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. It references previous engagement between California and Norway and also recognizes the ongoing processes of reconciliation with indigenous peoples in both regions. The MOU was signed by the California Energy Commission and the Norwegian Ministry of Trade and Industry during a visit from His Royal Highness Crown Prince Haakon to California. It includes the following areas of cooperation: clean energy, clean and zero-emission ports, transportation decarbonization, carbon management, circular economy, climate smart agriculture and land use, and critical minerals. During the visit, Governor Newsom and Crown Prince Haakon also signed a Joint Statement which highlights the new areas of climate collaboration, existing work on economic development, and continued partnership on criminal justice and prison reform.
Press Release: California and Norway Ink New Climate Partnership | California Governor
Joint Statement
Signed: April 28, 2021
Term: 5 Years
The purpose of this Memorandum of Understanding, between the California Governor's Office of Business and Economic Development and Innovation Norway, is to establish a flexible framework between the Participants in order to permit them to achieve tangible results in two-way trade and investment and the development of systemic solutions to combat climate change in a just and equitable manner. Particular areas of focus include, but are not limited to the following: advancing zero-emission transportation innovation and development; transforming supply chains toward sustainability; industrial workforce training; knowledge exchange and information sharing to enhance the blue-green economy; sharing strategies around the implementation of digitalization, automation, and electrification; enhancing cooperative information-sharing in sustainable goods movement; and advancing industry opportunities within renewable energy production and storage.
Ministry of Climate and Environment - PDF
Signed: August 2, 2017
Term: To be reviewed every 2 years
Norway and California share the long-term goal of becoming low-emission societies. Both aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80% or more as compared to their 1990 levels by 2050. Through this Declaration on Intent, Norway and California seek to foster a closer working relationship to promote climate action at all levels. The key areas of engagement include climate change policy, reduced deforestation, zero-emission transportation, and climate-friendly energy systems.
Signed: February 26, 2014
Term: No Expiration
This MOU seeks to strengthen cooperation between the Government of the Republic of Peru and the Government of the State of California and creates a framework for cooperation in areas of mutual benefit, including the areas of climate change mitigation and adaptation, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, including from the agricultural and forestry sectors. As part of the environmental focus of this MOU, the Parties agree to promote dialogue, technical exchange, and joint projects in climate change mitigation and adaptation policies, air quality, forest management, water quality and management, and the promotion of clean technologies.
Historic Environment Scotland - PDF
Signed: October 24, 2019
Term: 5 years
Building on previous commitments between Scotland and California, specifically the Letter of Cooperation on Ambitious Action on Climate Change and the Low Carbon Economy, signed in April 2017, this Memorandum of Understanding seeks to fulfill the tenets of previous agreements and share knowledge, experiences, data, and best practices relevant to the intersection of cultural heritage and climate action. Priority areas of cooperation include, but are not limited to:
- Ensuring cultural heritage is a factor in climate action ambitions;
- Understanding the challenges associated with the stewardship of cultural heritage sites subject to a changing environment;
- Exchanging information on a wide range of cultural heritage issues including conservation efforts for historic buildings, building resilient communities, the effects of greenhouse gas emissions on historic landscapes, and the benefits of collaborative efforts.
Signed: April 3, 2017
Term: No Expiration
In this Letter of Cooperation Scotland and California, as members of the Under2 Coalition, affirm their strong commitment to take ambitious action on climate change and further the development of the low-carbon economy.
Department of Agriculture of the Province of the Western Cape
Signed: March 11, 2022
Term: Five Years
The agricultural sector in the Western Cape and California share many similarities and challenges related to production, climate, and soils, Both regions are important to global food production and security. In order to remain competitive in the evolving national and international marketplace, both regions must continue to adapt on-farm practices and technologies to address climate change. This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishes a flexible framework for cooperation in the area of climate-smart agriculture. Specific areas of cooperation include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Improve water-use efficiency with specific reference to groundwater modeling and remote sensing;
- Modeling the impact of climate change on the agricultural sector;
- Exchange of information regarding policies and regulations, governance models, and documentation;
- Intergovernmental and international visits involving policymakers, regulator, academic institutions, and businesses;
- Joint activities, such as organization of and participation in seminars, workshops, and meetings to share information and practices, educate key stakeholders, and promote ties between California and Western Cape's agricultural sectors;
- And the facilitation of innovative partnerships
Signed: May 6, 2024
Term: 3 Years
Both the State of California and the Province of Gyeonggi are the most populous subnational governments in their respective countries. Both are economic engines and centers of innovation for their national economies, both have committed to achieving carbon neutrality, and both are founding signatories of the Subnational Methane Action Coalition. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Gyeonggi Province and the State of California underscores the importance of global partnership and collaboration in key sectors to spur innovation, achieve decarbonization and emissions reductions, and address the climate crisis. It was signed in Sacramento, by Governor Dong Yeon Kim and Governor Gavin Newsom, and outlines three years of collaboration to foster trade relations, advance climate goals, and promote people-to-people exchanges among the two regions’ academics, entrepreneurs, and innovators.
Press Release: California Partners with Gyeonggi Province, The Center of South Korea’s Economy and High-Tech Industry | California Governor
Signed: April 6, 2015
Term: No Expiration
This MOU between the State of California and Catalonia, Spain, is an agreement to support and encourage economic and trade cooperation in various areas, including environmental protection, water resources management, advanced agriculture and food technologies, and clean and sustainable mobility, including public transportation, high-speed train, electric vehicles, and green ports.
Government of the Kingdom of Sweden
Signed: February 20, 2024
Term: 5 Years
This Letter of Cooperation (LOC), between the Government of the State of California of the United States of America and the Government of the Kingdom of Sweden focuses on the Green Transition. It was signed during a visit from Their Royal Highnesses the Crown Princess Victoria and Prince Daniel of Sweden during a four-day official visit to California. The LOC renews a climate partnership between the two economies that was established in 2017. Both California and Sweden are taking aggressive climate action to achieve carbon neutrality by 2045. The LOC was signed by California’s Governor, Gavin Newsom, and Sweden’s Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade, Johan Forssell. It outlines five years of cooperation on zero-emissions transportation and infrastructure, local climate action, clean energy, and climate-smart agriculture.
Press Release: Governor Newsom Welcomes Swedish Delegation to California, Signs Climate Partnership | California Governor
Ministry of Environment and Energy - PDF
Signed: April 19, 2017
Term: No Expiration
This Letter of Cooperation between the Ministry of the Environment and Energy of the Kingdom of Sweden and the State of California on Cooperation in the Field of Climate Change recognizes the importance of the Paris Agreement and the need for the global community, at various levels of governance, to address climate change. In this Letter of Cooperation, Sweden and California agree to cooperate to combat climate change through various means, including initiatives aimed at reducing transportation emissions, sharing best practices, and supporting the promotion development, and expansion of renewable energy. Additionally, this Letter of Cooperation states that Sweden and California will push for higher global ambitions on climate change through the UNFCCC and the Under2 Coalition, and will work individually and together to link and align efforts between the two, as well as draw more international attention to the actions and ambitious reduction goals that are needed.
World Bank Sustainable Low-Carbon Development - PDF
Signed: November 11, 2016
Term: 3 years
This MOU focuses on sharing knowledge and good practices with other territories and cities to advance sustainable, low-carbon development strategies, tools, and practices consistent with the goal of limiting global warming well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels and to pursue efforts to limit the temperature increase even further, to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Multilateral Agreements
Subnational Methane Action Coalition
Signed: December 3, 2023
Term: No expiration
Summary: Recognizing the critical regulatory role that subnational governments play in driving greenhouse gas emissions reductions, the Subnational Methane Action Coalition (SMAC) creates collaboration with jurisdictions that oversee and regulate key sources of methane such as agriculture, energy and landfills. Working together through SMAC, subnational jurisdictions share goals and best practices in reducing methane emissions and developing methane emissions inventories, plans, strategies and protocols for the use of remote sensing data on methane emissions.
Link to Press Releases:
Mediterranean Climate Action Partnership
Signed: December 2, 2023
Term: No expiration
The Mediterranean Climate Action Partnership (MCAP) is a global alliance of regions with a mediterranean climate, working together to adapt to drought, wildfire, and heat. The Partnership was established on December 2, 2023, at the Conference of Parties (COP28) in Dubai by fourteen leaders from five continents, in regions spread across the northern and southern hemisphere. Given their similar distance from the equator, the communities and ecosystems of these regions are especially vulnerable to climate change and are facing ever-increasing dangerous impacts, including extreme heat waves, worsening wildfires, and intensifying droughts. The MCAP brings together leaders of regional governments that share a common set of challenges driven by climate change. Their goal is to accelerate action to combat climate change, learn to adapt quickly to climate impacts and better weather climate emergencies, and build climate resilience in ways that reduce carbon pollution.
Link to Press Releases:
Global Offshore Wind Alliance
Joined: December 5, 2023
Term: No expiration
The State of California joined the Global Offshore Wind Alliance (GOWA) alongside the Conference of Parties (COP28) on December 5, 2023, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The GOWA was founded by the Danish Ministry of Climate, Energy, and Utilities, the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), and the Global Wind Energy Council (GWEC), and was officially launched in 2022, alongside the 27th Conference of Parties (COP27) in Sharm el-Sheikh, Egypt. According to the GOWA, worldwide installed offshore wind capacity totaled 64 gigawatts in 2022. The GOWA aims to accelerate the development of offshore wind to reach a collective capacity of 380 gigawatts by 2030. The State of California’s offshore wind achievements will feed into this collective goal. Upon joining the GOWA, the State of California had already adopted a 25 gigawatt goal by 2045 for installed offshore wind capacity.
Link to Press Releases:
Signed: November 8, 2021
Term: 5 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the European Institute of Innovation & Technology Climate Knowledge and Innovation Community (EIT Climate-Kic) and the California Governor's Office of Planning and Research was signed in Glasgow, Scotland, along the margins of the 26th Conference of Parties (COP26). Based on a unified approach to climate action and a commitment to accelerate the transition to a net-zero, climate-resilient society through innovation, this MOU creates a flexible framework for cooperation aimed at achieving mutual progress on climate change, both regionally and globally, in a manner that benefits all segments of society.
Multi-State Medium and Heavy-Duty Zero Emission Vehicle MOU
Signed: July 14, 2020
This is a joint memorandum of understanding (MOU) by fifteen states and the District of Columbia, all of which commit to work collaboratively to advance and accelerate the market for electric medium and heavy-duty vehicles, including large pickup trucks and vans, delivery trucks, box trucks, school and transit buses, and long-haul delivery trucks (big-rigs). This stated goal is that by 2050, all new medium and heavy-duty vehicle sales will be zero emission vehicles, with an interim target of 30 percent zero-emission vehicle sales by 2030.
The MOU will go a long way toward slashing harmful diesel emissions and cutting carbon pollution from the transportation sector. While trucks and buses account for only about 4 percent of vehicles on the road, they contribute to unhealthy levels of smog and are responsible for nearly 25 percent of total transportation sector greenhouse gas emissions. Signatories include the following states: California, Connecticut, Colorado, Hawaii, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, and Washington.
Press Release
Nescaum Website
Signed: October 19, 2021
Term: Five Years
Under the new MOU signed in 2021, the Under2 Coalition - the world’s largest subnational climate leadership group – has announced its transition to become a “net zero coalition” by 2050. Spearheaded by its five co-chairs, California, Chungnam, KwaZulu-Natal, Querétaro and Scotland, and the governments of its Steering Group, the Coalition will now have net zero emissions targets as a baseline for membership. This will significantly raise ambition across states and regions while pushing national governments to follow their lead.
Under2 Coalition moves to become ‘net zero coalition’
Under 2 MOU
Signed: May 19, 2015
Term: No Expiration
This first-of-its-kind agreement was initially signed by Governor Edmund G. Brown Jr. and international leaders from 11 other states and provinces on May 19, 2015. Over the years the number of signatories has grown into a Coalition of more 200 governments around the world, all committed to keeping global temperature rises to well below 2°C.
Press Release
Under2 Coalition website.
United States Climate Alliance
Signed: June 1, 2017
Term: No Expiration
Founded by the U.S. States of California, Washington, and New York, in response to President Trump’s decision to withdraw from the Paris Agreement. The U.S. Climate Alliance is a bipartisan coalition of governors committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions consistent with the goals of the Paris Agreement. Focused on state-to-state cooperation, Alliance members are committed to the acceleration and deployment of climate solutions needed to help each state achieve their climate goals.
The Alliance is led by three guiding principles:
- States are continuing to lead on climate change.
- State-level climate action is benefitting our economies and strengthening our communities.
- States are showing the nation and the world that ambitious climate action is achievable.
Commission of the Californias - PDF
Signed: December 4, 2019
Term: 4 Years
This Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishes the Commission of the Californias, a forum comprised of the governments of the State of California, the State of Baja California, and the State of Baja California Sur. The Commission of the Californias will serve as a platform for information sharing – particularly in regard to common challenges and the development of collective solutions to address them. Specific areas of focus include, but are not limited to, the following: environment and energy; transportation and infrastructure; emergency preparedness and response; economic development and tourism; agriculture; and public health. All activities will be carried out by the Governor’s and their designated staff. Further, the participants intend to meet to engage in collective discussion at least once a year.
Governors’ Accord for a New Energy Future
Signed: February 16, 2016
Term: No Expiration
The Governors’ Accord for a New Energy Future is a bipartisan platform for governors to collaborate on clean energy opportunities. By deploying renewable, cleaner and more efficient energy solutions, we can drive economic growth, provide durable and resilient infrastructure, and protect the health of our communities. While each state’s energy needs and resources are unique, collaboration on a national scale is key to energy policy progress in the United States. The Governors’ Accord aims to help governors collaborate on policy, planning, and best practices to achieve a stronger national energy future for the 21st century.
Governors' Accord website
Governors’ Climate and Forest Task Force
Signed: November 18, 2008
Term: No Expiration
On November 18, 2008, the U.S. states of California, Illinois, and Wisconsin, the Brazilian states of Amapá, Amazonas, Mato Grosso, and Pará, and the Indonesian provinces of Aceh and Papua signed Memoranda of Understanding on climate and forests cooperation at the Governors’ Climate Change Summit in Los Angeles, California. These agreements established the Governors’ Climate and Forest (GCF) Task Force designed to advance jurisdiction-wide approaches to low emissions development and Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and forest Degradation (REDD+). Since its first meeting in 2009, the GCF Task Force has more than tripled its membership and expanded its reach to include jurisdictions from multiple countries. The GCF Task Force provides a foundation for cooperation on a number of issues related to climate policy, financing, technology exchange, and research.
Governors’ Climate and Forest Task Force website
North American Climate Leaders Statement
Signed: November 13, 2017
Term: No Expiration
The North American Climate Leaders Statement was signed in Bonn, Germany at the Conference of Parties (COP23). Signatories include Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. Climate Alliance committed to standing together to combat climate change and support clean growth across North America. In the Statement, the signatories agreed to strengthen climate initiatives through the North American Climate Leadership Dialogue and share their goals at the 2018 Global Climate Action Summit (which took place in San Francisco in September 2018). Areas of focus include clean transportation and zero-emission vehicles, vehicle efficiency, clean technology, supporting clean power while reducing reliance on coal-fired electricity, carbon pricing initiatives, and the reduction of short-lived climate pollutants.
On September 13, 2018, alongside the Global Climate Action Summit, the North American Climate Leaders signed another Statement, committing to advance improvements in energy efficiency, electrification, and greenhouse gas emission performance of vehicles.
United States Climate Alliance website
Statement of Cooperation (2022)
Term: 3 Years
This Statement of Cooperation (SOC), between California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia, promotes the collaboration between the four regional governments to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy through prioritized investments in clean energy infrastructure and climate resiliency. The SOC includes a major focus on equity to ensure no communities are left behind in the transition to a low-carbon future.
Pacific Coast Collaborative website
Pacific North America Climate Leadership Agreement
Signed: June 1, 2016
Term: To be Reevaluated in 3 years
In an effort to demonstrate global leadership by providing a model for how decisive, coordinated subnational climate action can contribute to robust regional economic growth and inspire global action on greenhouse gas emissions reductions that meaningfully combat climate change and its impacts, the members of the Pacific Coast Collaborative (PCC) agree to work together on low-carbon development of buildings, transportation, energy systems, and waste.
Pacific Coast Climate Leadership Action Plan
Signed: June 1, 2016
Term: No Expiration
The Governments of British Columbia, California, Oregon, and Washington agree to:
- Demonstrate global subnational leadership and ambition on climate and clean energy policy and the success of equitable low-carbon regional economies
- Lead national and international policy on climate change
- Increase awareness, understanding, and action on ocean acidification and other climate-related changes in ocean conditions"
- Transition the West Coast to clean modes of transportation and reduce greenhouse gas emissions from this sector
- Invest in clean energy
- Increase climate resilience
Pacific Coast Action Plan on Climate & Energy
Signed: October 28, 2013
Term: No Expiration
Signed at the Fourth Annual Leaders’ Forum of the Pacific Coast Collaborative, the Governors of California, Washington, Oregon, and the Premier of British Columbia agreed primarily to:
- Lead national and international policy on climate change
- Transition the West Coast to clean modes of transportation and reduce the large share of greenhouse gas emissions from this sector
- Invest in clean energy and climate-resilient infrastructure
State of Washington and Province of British Columbia - PDF
Signed: December 18, 2018
Term: No Expiration
This Memorandum of Understanding is a multilateral agreement between California, Washington, and British Columbia that expresses the richness, value, and many benefits of Pacific Coast Temperate Forests and also the threat of climate change to the forest ecosystem. Within the MOU each signatory pledges to work together to preserve the natural biodiversity and health of forests, to share best practices on forest management, preservation, and conservation, and to engage in scientific study, adaptive practice, improved data and modeling, and indigenous traditional knowledge within their respective jurisdictions in an effort to better understand forest carbon dynamics and response to climate changes.
State of Acre & State of Chiapas - PDF
Signed: November 16, 2010
Term: No Expiration
This Memorandum of Understanding on Environmental Cooperation between the State of Acre, in Brazil, the State of Chiapas, in Mexico, and the State of California, in the U.S. focuses on joint efforts to enhance policies for environmental protection and sustainable natural resources. The MOU prioritizes cooperation on reducing emissions from deforestation and land degradation and also on the sequestration of additional carbon through the restoration and reforestation of degraded lands and forests, through improved forest management practices.
State Zero-Emission Vehicle Programs - PDF
Signed: October 24, 2013
Term: No Expiration
Signatories to the State Zero-Emission Vehicle Programs Memorandum of Understanding agree to coordinate actions to support and ensure the successful implementation of their Zero-Emission Vehicle programs. The Signatory States agree to create and participate in a Multi-State ZEV Program Implementation Task Force to serve as a forum for coordination and collaboration on the full range of program support and implementation issues to promote effective and efficient implementation of ZEV regulations.
Multi-State ZEV Task Force website
Transport Decarbonisation Alliance - PDF
Signed: September 12, 2018
Term: No Expiration
The Transport Decarbonisation Alliance (TDA) was launched in 2018, and consists of countries, cities and regions, and companies eager to pave the way for an accelerated worldwide transformation towards a net-zero emission mobility system before 2050. The TDA is part of the 12 commitments made at the One Planet Summit hosted by President Emmanuel Macron in Paris, France, in December 2017. This agreement was signed in San Francisco, alongside the Global Climate Action Summit, in September 2018, by California State Transportation Agency Secretary Brian Annis, making California the first North American member of the International Transport Decarbonisation Alliance.
Transport Decarbonisation Alliance website
The U.S.-China Governors’ Accord on Clean Energy and Economic Development - PDF
Signed: September 22, 2015
Term: No Expiration
The U.S.-China Governors’ Accord on Clean Energy and Economic Development strives to accelerate the utilization of renewable resources and commercialize new clean and renewable energy technologies. Areas of focus include: the commercialization and deployment of clean and renewable energy technologies; the promotion of energy efficiency in buildings and industries; advancing smart grids and other programs to modernize the electrical grid infrastructure; and the reduction of transportation emissions.
Zero Routine Flaring by 2030 Initiative - PDF
Signed: December 28, 2015
Term: No Expiration
On December 28, 2015, California Environmental Protection Agency Secretary, Matt Rodriquez, sent a letter confirming California’s endorsement of the “Zero Routine Flaring by 2030” Initiative, and committed to eliminate existing legacy routine flaring no later than by 2030 and to help ensure that new oil fields are developed with plans that include a gas utilization solution without routine flaring or venting.
Zero Routine Flaring by 2030 Initiative website
Signed: September 29, 2015
Term: No Expiration
On September 29, 2015, California joined with 10 European and North American governments as founding partners of the International ZEV Alliance – an international alliance to accelerate the world’s adoption of zero-emission vehicles. Members of the International ZEV Alliance collaborate on ambitious targets to get more zero-emission vehicles on the roads, share data and best practices and encourage other governments to join them. The founding members were announced during a signing evet at the Quebec government in New York. In addition to California, founding members of the Alliance included The Netherlands, Norway and the United Kingdom in Europe; Connecticut, Maryland, Massachusetts, Oregon, Rhode Island and Vermont in the United States; and Québec. Since the founding of the ZEV Alliance, additional governments have joined.
ZEV Alliance website
Inactive Agreements
Partnerships - Archived Inactive MOUs
Resources
Climate Change Partnerships - Resources
- California Environmental
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