State Energy Resources Conservation and Development Commission: seaports: plan: alternative fuels.

Senator Caballero's maritime emissions reduction legislation directs the California Energy Commission to develop a comprehensive alternative fuels plan for oceangoing vessels at the state's public seaports by 2030. The plan, created in partnership with the State Lands Commission, Transportation Agency, and Air Resources Board, aims to enable seaports to meet their emissions reduction targets while maintaining cargo competitiveness.

The legislation requires the plan to assess alternative fuel infrastructure needs, identify permitting barriers, evaluate facility development opportunities, and forecast fuel demand and supply requirements. To inform this work, the Energy Commission must convene a working group comprising seaport operators, marine terminal operators, ocean carriers, labor representatives, environmental advocates, fuel providers, and relevant state agencies.

The measure aligns with International Maritime Organization targets for reducing shipping emissions, including goals of 40% carbon intensity reduction by 2030 and integration of zero or near-zero greenhouse gas technologies. According to the bill's findings, maintaining California's position as the nation's largest international trade gateway while transitioning to cleaner fuels carries implications for both economic competitiveness and emissions reduction, as cargo diversions to other U.S. ports result in 19% higher greenhouse gas emissions on average for Asian imports.