Community leaders demand water access before hydrogen projects

During a recent government meeting, key discussions centered around the cautious approach to hydrogen energy and its implications for environmental justice in California. Officials emphasized the importance of not overstating the future benefits of hydrogen, advocating for the prioritization of electricity where feasible. They also highlighted the necessity of thorough environmental reviews and community engagement before the development of hydrogen facilities, particularly in the Central Valley, where concerns about potential site locations were raised.

Andrea Leon Grossman, a board member of the Environmental Justice Coalition for Water, voiced urgent concerns regarding California's ongoing water crisis. Despite the state's declaration of water as a human right, she noted that over one million Californians still lack access to safe and affordable water. Grossman argued that addressing this issue should take precedence over supplying water to industrial needs, citing alarming conditions in communities like Maywood, where residents face contaminated tap water.

The discussion also touched on the electrification of hard-to-decarbonize sectors, such as steelmaking and aviation, questioning the necessity and safety of hydrogen in these contexts. Grossman, referencing her involvement in the LA 100 study, expressed strong opposition to hydrogen projects, particularly due to safety risks associated with potential explosions near critical infrastructure.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to maintain communication with stakeholders as discussions on these pressing issues continue.