This weekly newsletter highlights the latest from the California Energy Journal along with links to articles and analysis on key developments in California energy policy.
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From the California Energy Journal
BOEM Issues Final Environmental Review for Platform Gilda Fracking Proposal (April 28, 2026) – On April 22, 2026, the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM) issued a final environmental impact statement (EIS) on a proposal to authorize well stimulation treatments, including fracking, on Platform Gilda offshore Ventura County. Read more.
Additional California News and Analysis
Oil and gas
The last California-bound oil tanker to pass through the Strait of Hormuz since the beginning of the war with Iran is at the Port of Long Beach offloading its valuable cargo — 2 million barrels of crude destined to be transformed into gasoline, jet fuel and diesel. Los Angeles Times, May 3, 2026.
Commentary and analysis
Edward Ring, “California’s Self-Destructive War on Oil,” California Policy Center, April 29, 2026.
Alison F. Takemura, “Local policies to get buildings off gas keep winning in court, Canary Media, April 29, 2026.
Fuels and refining
The Bay Area Air District fined Valero $3.25 million for multiple air quality violations and ongoing compliance issues. CBS; Bay Area Air District, April 28, 2026.
Wind and solar
The California Energy Commission has issued an administrative investigative subpoena to Golden State Wind regarding its deal with the Trump Administration to abandon an offshore wind project. CEC, May 4, 2026.
Governor Gavin Newsom announced the completion of a first-of-its-kind solar-covered canal in the Central Valley. The project will help the state evaluate how solar infrastructure can reduce water loss from evaporation, generate renewable energy, and improve overall system efficiency. Office of the Governor, April 29, 2026.
Commentary and analysis
Ryan Kennedy, “California sets precedent by overriding local blockade for Soda Mountain,” PV Magazine, April 29, 2026.
Climate and emissions
California state lawmakers sent a letter to regulators criticizing changes to the state's cap-and-invest program that they say weaken the program and benefit the oil industry. E&E News, April 29, 2026.
Power and utilities
The California Independent System Operator (CAISO) and PacifiCorp launched the Extended Day-Ahead Market (EDAM), allowing greater access to the Western electricity market. American Public Power Association; Office of the Governor, May 1, 2026.
The California Public Utilities Commission denied a proposal from Southern California Gas to collect $266 million of cost recovery from natural gas customers to pay for development of the Angeles Link hydrogen pipeline. CPUC, April 30, 2026; Canary Media, May 1, 2026.
Commentary and analysis
Jeff St. John, “Two California bills would push utilities to get more out of their grids,” Canary Media, April 30, 2026.
Politics
Candidate for governor of California Xavier Becerra reportedly accepted a $39,200 donation from Chevron for his gubernatorial campaign, prompting criticism from fellow candidates. Politico, April 29, 2026.
Candidate for governor Steve Hilton vowed to do away with California’s climate policies in favor of more gas production. SF Chronicle, April 29, 2026.
Commentary and analysis
Evan George, “Does Taking Oil Money Disqualify You from Being Governor?,” Legal Planet, April 29, 2026.
Additional News and Analysis
Oil and gas
A first-of-its-kind international conference on moving away from fossil fuels wrapped up in Colombia Wednesday with a clear message: the global conversation has shifted from whether to phase out oil, gas and coal to how to do it, with financing emerging as one of the biggest obstacles. AP, April 29, 2026
France has pledged to phase out all coal, oil and gas use in the years between 2030 and 2050. FT, April 29, 2026.
Wind and solar
The Trump administration is spending nearly $2 billion to get energy companies to walk away from U.S. offshore wind projects. Democrats in Congress are investigating. AP, April 29, 2026.
Critical minerals
Export restrictions on critical raw materials have increased fivefold since 2009 despite continuing efforts by advanced economies to diversify their supply chains, OECD research has shown. FT, April 28, 2026.