Commission highlights Port effort to prohibit fossil-fuel exports at Pier 96

Commission leaders announced a developing Port of San Francisco initiative to prohibit the export of coal, petroleum coke and crude oil at a proposed bulk terminal at Pier 96 in Hunters Point.

President Joshua Arce said the commission's engagement and subsequent Port work had elevated the question of whether a new Pier 96 facility might accept fossil-fuel cargos in the future. "We are poised to be... to make Pier 96 the first new facility in the country that makes export of these materials prohibited uses at this facility," Arce said, describing recent Board of Supervisors action calling for lease and operations language to bar dirty fuel exports.

Director Debbie Rafael and deputy city attorney staff briefed commissioners on coordinated efforts with the Port commission and supervisors to craft bid and lease language that would prevent coal, petroleum coke and crude oil exports at the site. Commissioners praised the Port for drafting contract language and said San Francisco's approach could serve as a model for other ports along the West Coast.

The board-level hearing and resolutions referenced at the meeting reflect recent momentum; staff said next steps include finalizing lease and procurement language and continuing coordination with the Board of Supervisors and Port staff. No final lease or ordinance was adopted at the commission meeting itself.