Lancaster was the first city in the United States to embrace hydrogen power, and in 2019 it became the first “Net Zero” energy city in the world. Lancaster now generates more clean energy than it consumes, and the city’s community choice aggregation (CCA) program, Lancaster Energy (LE), has served as a pioneer in accelerating the adoption of alternative energy sources, particularly hydrogen.
Hydrogen is a zero-carbon energy carrier that is clean, efficient and abundant. It provides wide-reaching benefits, such as improving local air quality, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, providing a reliable source of power and creating highly skilled jobs.
“We are proud of Lancaster Energy for its innovation in the hydrogen space,” said CalChoice Executive Director Jason Caudle. “Their shift to pursuing hydrogen energy highlights their adaptability to a changing environment and dedication to building a sustainable future for their community. LE’s efforts and success in executing various hydrogen projects will likely inspire other CCAs to do the same.”
Lancaster Energy partners with numerous entities to harness hydrogen’s full potential. The CCA has teamed up with industry leaders, including SGH2 and Element Resources to establish state-of-the-art hydrogen production facilities that provide cleaner production methods, expanded scale and efficiency.
Beyond production, the city is turning to hydrogen for sustainable transportation solutions, exemplified by their partnership with Hydroplane and Antelope Valley College to develop hydrogen-powered, long range aircrafts. By forming strategic alliances with global investors and industry leaders, the CCA is poised to expedite the adoption of hydrogen energy across various sectors.
“Despite progress, more opportunities lie ahead,” said R. Rex Parris, Mayor of Lancaster. “As hydrogen adoption grows, we can expect to see enhanced resource adequacy and grid resilience, as well as a gradual reduction in hydrogen production costs.”
“CalChoice encourages its CCAs to explore opportunities that will provide a brighter and cleaner future in their community,” continued Jason. “Lancaster Energy has been at the forefront of the renewable energy revolution and they are not stopping anytime soon.”
To learn more about the “First Hydrogen City,” visit: https://lancasterenergy.com/
About The City of Lancaster
Lancaster is a diverse community of nearly 170,000, leading the future through science, technology, art, culture, and collaboration. Home to astronauts, rocket scientists, families, and innovative businesses large and small, we are leading the USA with innovation. Combined with spectacular landscapes and clean air, Lancaster has the confidence, expertise, spirit, and imagination to transform tomorrow. We are: Creating a better tomorrow. Together. Visit us at www.cityoflancasterca.gov.
The City of Lancaster, California, was the first United States city to embrace hydrogen power, earning the moniker of the “First Hydrogen City.” The City has engaged in numerous formal partnerships and agreements to harness the potential of clean hydrogen. Lancaster is jumpstarting hydrogen adoption throughout the Antelope Valley and southern California.
About CalChoice
CalChoice is a California Joint Powers Authority (“JPA”) that provides Community Choice Aggregation (“CCA”) support services, which include energy portfolio management, power procurement and trading, settlements and invoice validations, regulatory compliance, regulatory advocacy, financial and accounting, and rate-setting support functions. Current operational CalChoice members include Lancaster Energy, Apple Valley Choice Energy, Pico Rivera Innovative Municipal Energy, San Jacinto Power, Rancho Mirage Energy Authority, Pomona Choice Energy, Santa Barbara Clean Energy and Energy for Palmdale’s Independent Choice. By joining together, CalChoice members are able to cut costs through economies of scale. Learn More at californiachoiceenergyauthority.com
