Panel backs bill to allow master meters for heavy-duty hydrogen stations

Assemblymember Carrillo presented AB 2500, which would permit utilities to extend a dedicated service line from the nearest grid point and install a dedicated master meter for hydrogen refueling stations, aligning electrical infrastructure rules for those sites with other types of fueling facilities. The bill is limited to heavy-duty stations; developers would carry installation costs and the bill includes a sunset provision.

Theresa Cook of the California Hydrogen Coalition testified that the measure fixes an infrastructure barrier that currently forces many projects into more expensive behind-the-meter arrangements and requested the committee's support. Several labor organizations and industry groups offered me-too or sponsor-level support, and no lead opposition witnesses appeared at the hearing.

Senators on the panel praised the bill's targeted approach and labor benefits and indicated they would move the measure when appropriate. The committee accepted the author's request to take the bill up when quorum was available.