CA SB414

Requires the State Air Resources Board, in consultation with the Energy Commission and Public Utilities Commission, to complete an assessment of hydrogen use in specified applications by December 31, 2025, upon legislative appropriation.

Assessment must evaluate hydrogen use across eight application categories: light-, medium-, and heavy-duty vehicles; long-distance trains; off-road equipment; household and commercial appliances; maritime shipping; aviation; industrial and agricultural processes; and electricity generation.

For each application, the assessment must evaluate greenhouse gas reduction potential, costs (current and projected to 2045), energy efficiency, and health and safety risks compared to alternative decarbonization options like electrification.

Assessment must establish a ranked list prioritizing applications for hydrogen use based on evaluation criteria, existing hydrogen use, infrastructure requirements, and supply availability to support California's 2045 carbon neutrality goal.

State board, Energy Commission, and Public Utilities Commission must consider assessment findings in their plans, rulemakings, and processes related to hydrogen production, distribution, storage, and usage in the state.