Analysis of policies and incentives for the successful implementation of hydrogen-fueled medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles in Humboldt County, California

Author

• Alka VermaFollow

Graduation Date

Spring 2026

Document Type

Thesis

Program

Master of Science degree with a major in Environmental Systems, option Energy, Technology, and Policy

Committee Chair Name

Kevin Fingerman

Committee Chair Affiliation

Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff

Second Committee Member Name

Arne Jacobson

Second Committee Member Affiliation

Cal Poly Humboldt Faculty or Staff

Third Committee Member Name

Peter Lehman

Third Committee Member Affiliation

Community Member or Outside Professional

Keywords

Medium-duty vehicles, Heavy-duty vehicles, Zero-emission vehicles, Hydrogen fuel, Humboldt County, Hydrogen infrastructure, Clean transportation, Fuel cell electric vehicles, Battery electric vehicles, Transportation policy and incentives, Renewable energy, Freight transportation, Sustainable transportation, California policy, Decarbonization

Subject Categories

Environmental Systems

Abstract

The 21st century has seen a significant rise in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with the transportation sector contributing 23% of these emissions. Medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles (MD/HD) are particularly impactful, accounting for over a quarter of transport-related emissions. In Humboldt County, California, transportation represents 53% of total emissions, with MD/HD vehicles being a major contributor. As light-duty vehicles shift to zero-emission alternatives, the MD/HD sector faces unique challenges. Hydrogen fuel cell vehicles offer a promising solution, providing longer range, higher energy density, and quicker refueling compared to battery electric vehicles (BEVs). These features make hydrogen an attractive option for MD/HD applications, which can require long-distance and continuous operations. The thesis includes projections of vehicle and fuel adoption, drawing on insights from a stakeholder survey, designed and conducted by the Redwood Coast Energy Authority (RCEA), and recommends policies for successful implementation. This thesis examines the integration of green hydrogen-powered MD/HD vehicle fleets in Humboldt County. Quantitative scenario modeling indicates that, by 2045, full adoption of zero-emission MD/HD vehicles in the county would require on the order of tens of thousands of BEV charging ports or roughly 6,600 metric tons of hydrogen per year, depending on the technology pathway chosen. The analysis also shows that these measures could reduce MD/HD greenhouse gas emissions by more than three-quarters relative to a business-as-usual case while shifting a substantial share of regional energy demand from petroleum fuels to electricity and hydrogen. Based on these findings, the thesis outlines priority infrastructure investments and policy actions needed to enable a cost-effective and equitable transition to zero-emission MD/HD transportation in Humboldt County.

Citation Style

APA

Recommended Citation

Verma, Alka, "Analysis of policies and incentives for the successful implementation of hydrogen-fueled medium-duty and heavy-duty vehicles in Humboldt County, California" (2026). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 2539.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/2539