The Scattergood Generating Station in Los Angeles is poised for a significant transformation as the Los Angeles Board of Water and Power Commissioners prepares to vote on Tuesday on a plan to retrofit the plant with hydrogen-ready turbines. The $800-million project aims to position California at the forefront of clean energy, despite recent federal funding cuts.
Earlier this month, the Trump administration withdrew $1.2 billion in federal funding intended for California’s hydrogen hub, a setback for the state’s ambitious clean hydrogen initiatives. However, California remains committed to advancing hydrogen projects, including Scattergood, with state officials emphasizing the potential of renewable hydrogen as a key component in the transition from fossil fuels. Willie Rudman, a spokesman for the Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development, stated, “Clean hydrogen holds incredible potential as California continues its transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy” as reported by Westside Current.
Despite the optimism, critics have raised concerns about the feasibility and cost of the project. Hydrogen production is currently expensive and often relies on carbon-intensive natural gas. The Scattergood upgrade plans to replace aging gas turbines with a new combined-cycle unit capable of burning a blend of hydrogen and natural gas, aiming to transition to “green” hydrogen when it becomes viable. However, environmentalists worry about investing heavily in technology that is not yet widely available. Julia Dowell, a Sierra Club organizer, expressed skepticism, saying, “You’re spending a lot of money on a technology that doesn’t currently exist” according to LAist.
The Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) is determined to proceed, viewing the Scattergood conversion as a crucial step toward the city’s goal of achieving fossil-free power by 2035. The vote will not initiate construction but will allow LADWP to seek builders and finalize designs.