California Air Resources Board (CARB) approved Resolution 25-9, making targeted amendments to the Advanced Clean Fleets (ACF) and Low Carbon Fuel Standard (LCFS) regulations. These changes aim to support California’s transport decarbonization goals while adjusting compliance timelines and crediting mechanisms.
Legal Framework
CARB’s action was taken under California Health & Safety Code §§ 39600 and 39601, amending:
• Title 13, CCR §§ 2013-2015 – ACF requirements for state and local agency fleets
• Title 17, CCR § 95486.3 – LCFS hydrogen infrastructure crediting
Key Regulatory Changes
Zero-Emission Fleet Adjustments
• Introduction of the ZEV Fleet Milestones Option (§ 2015)
• Extension of the 50% ZEV procurement schedule to 2030 for smaller fleets and certain regions
Retired Fleet Requirements
• Removal of mandates for:
o Drayage trucks
o High-priority & federal fleets (Title 13 §§ 2014-2015)
Hydrogen Fueling Infrastructure Support
• LCFS amendments strengthen crediting for hydrogen refueling stations to accelerate infrastructure deployment (§ 95486.3)
Environmental Review
CARB confirmed the amendments fall under prior environmental reviews:
• Advanced Clean Fleets EA – Certified April 24, 2023
• LCFS Environmental Impact Analysis – Certified November 8, 2024
No further CEQA review was required.
Next Regulatory Steps
CARB directed its Executive Officer to:
• Finalize regulatory text and rulemaking documents
• Submit filings to the Office of Administrative Law (OAL)
• Include updates in California’s State Implementation Plan (SIP) under the U.S. Clean Air Act
Industry Impact
The amendments provide operational flexibility while supporting California’s zero-emission transport goals:
• Adjusted ZEV procurement timelines
• Reduced immediate compliance obligations for drayage and priority fleets
• Additional LCFS credits for hydrogen fuel providers
• Ongoing need for fleet electrification planning
Recommended Actions for Businesses
Fleet operators and clean-fuel providers should:
• Review updated timelines and compliance obligations
• Adjust procurement and infrastructure plans accordingly
• Prepare for evolving ZEV and LCFS compliance guidance
Reference: CARB Resolution 25-9 PDF
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