Part 10/12:
California’s struggle offers a cautionary tale for other states such as New York, Oregon, and Washington, which are increasingly following California’s lead. The push to electrify transportation and phase out fossil fuels may be politically appealing, but without a robust energy infrastructure—including reliable domestic fuel supply and base load power—the result could be continued reliance on out-of-state imports and higher energy costs.
The state’s experience underscores the importance of managing the transition carefully. A pragmatic approach that supports refinery stability, encourages renewable conversions, and prepares for inevitable supply challenges can help avoid economic shocks and maintain stability.