Northwest California Alternative Fuels Readiness Project

The Northwest California Alternative Fuels Readiness Project developed a comprehensive alternative fuels readiness plan for the Northwest California region through detailed analysis and coordinated outreach and engagement with regional stakeholders. Efforts were focused on identifying challenges and opportunities related to the adoption of alternative fuels, including hydrogen, biofuels, natural gas, and electricity. Key tasks included the development of a strategic plan for alternative fuel markets, the development of materials and strategies for mobilizing regional actors to take action toward alternative fuel markets, development of an ongoing network of regional decision-makers for promoting alternative fuels, and the delivery of targeted outreach to key entities throughout the region.

It was found that the Low Carbon Fuel Standard 2020 goal of reducing carbon intensity is technically feasible, though very ambitious. In addition, it is heavily dependent upon effective outreach, education, policy, and coordinated regional efforts to establish a low-carbon fuels network. A unique methodology was developed to analyze the role that each alternative fuel could play in the region towards achieving the carbon intensity reduction goal. This analysis indicates that electric vehicles should play a central role in the region’s alternative fuels strategy, but that other technologies are needed as well. In addition, solutions were identified to address the alternative fuels market barriers unique to the Northwest California region.