Annual Hydrogen Evaluation
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Page last updated December 1, 2025
Background
The Clean Transportation Program was established by Assembly Bill (AB) 118 (2007) and was re-authorized by AB 8 (2013) and AB 126 (2023). AB 126 supports the development of hydrogen refueling infrastructure in California, providing at least $15 million annually through 2030 for hydrogen fueling stations. The California Energy Commission distributes these funds through competitive grants. As mandated by AB 126, the California Air Resources Board (CARB) offers annual evaluations for the deployment of light-duty fuel cell electric vehicles and identifies needs for hydrogen station network expansion. Reports have been published annually since 2014.
What’s New in 2025?
Since CARB published the 2024 Annual Evaluation, there have been significant changes in California’s hydrogen fueling network. The report highlights six key findings that outline important trends to inform state planning and investments in hydrogen stations for light-duty vehicles.
- As of August 29, 2025, California has 61 hydrogen fueling stations, with Chevron developing two new stations.
- By April 2025, there were 14,128 registered fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) and plans for 112 hydrogen stations, though expansion is hampered by high prices and low demand.
- FCEV technology is improving, but automakers are projecting slower growth in sales than in previous years. The estimated FCEV population is projected to reach 16,210 by 2028 but may drop to about 14,150 by 2031 due to reporting limitations. Auto manufacturers are looking for market signals and state support to boost sales confidence.
- Total capacity of hydrogen fueling stations is expected to exceed demand through the end of the decade.
- Despite a decrease in the number of projected stations, there has been minimal variation in the network's coverage, particularly in and around disadvantaged communities.
- Potential regions identified in this year's analysis still lack convenient access to hydrogen infrastructure. The success of this network relies on its geographic coverage and accessibility to ensure confidence among FCEV drivers and attract new users.
Furthermore, the report offers recommendations to support hydrogen infrastructure. These include continued hydrogen infrastructure support to improve station reliability, collaboration with station operators and developers to identify solutions for station expansion in potential market areas, preparation for infrastructure to accommodate refueling for medium-duty vehicles, and leveraging investments through the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems, known as ARCHES, to reduce hydrogen costs.