Alternative Fuel Readiness Plan for San Mateo County

In light of the importance of addressing climate change impacts caused by transportation fuels, and in the interest of preparing for fast growing alternative fuel vehicle technologies, the City and County Association of Governments of the County of San Mateo have undertaken the preparation of an Alternative Fuel Readiness Plan.

This document will serve as guidance to public agencies, private companies, and individuals regarding the incorporation of alternative fuel vehicles and alternative fuel infrastructure into San Mateo County.

This Plan provides an overview of each alternative fuel and presents the motivations for having an alternative fuel readiness plan, including existing legislation and incentives, environmental benefits, and economic factors. The growth of the alternative fuel market will depend on having sufficient refueling infrastructure and affordable and desirable alternative fuel vehicle options. Governments can help with infrastructure development and vehicle purchasing through incentives, funding, regulations, and outreach and education programs. The Plan lays out a number of policy options for local governments to consider. This may include zoning plans, streamlined permitting, coordination with other agencies to increase government fleet alternative fuel vehicle purchases, and regional siting plan development.

The Plan also presents outreach strategies and marketing materials and provides aggregated training resources for emergency personnel. An analysis of future vehicle populations and fuel demand in San Mateo County was performed, and showed that while gasoline demand will decline, demand for all forms of alternative fuels used in vehicles will increase and will require a corresponding increase in public refueling dispensers. Local governments will be best prepared for this increase if they begin to plan for alternative fuel readiness now.