California plans to mix hydrogen with gas to cut climate pollution while critics raise safety concerns

SoCalGas has proposed pilot projects to blend small shares of hydrogen into local pipeline gas and has identified Orange Cove as a test site; the California Public Utilities Commission is expected to decide on such pilots this year amid local concerns about emissions, leaks and health impacts.

California regulators are reviewing pilot projects that would add small shares of hydrogen to existing natural gas supplies as a way to reduce climate pollution. SoCalGas proposed the tests and selected Orange Cove after revising earlier plans. Local officials have supported the project, while many residents and advocacy groups have expressed concerns. The California Public Utilities Commission is expected to make a decision on hydrogen blending applications this year. Key points: - SoCalGas proposed hydrogen blending pilots and identified Orange Cove as a potential test site. - Orange Cove leaders voted in favor, but some residents have launched a petition and raised concerns at public meetings. - Experts and community advocates cited uncertainties about emissions, leaks and possible health effects from burning hydrogen-blended gas in older appliances. - The California Public Utilities Commission is expected to issue a decision this year and SoCalGas has said it would implement safety measures during a pilot. Summary: The proposal reflects a tension between efforts to cut climate pollution and local questions about safety and health impacts. The next formal step is the California Public Utilities Commission decision, currently expected this year, which will determine whether pilots move forward and under what conditions.