Clean Energy Fuels Corp. has unveiled the expansion of a renewable natural gas (RNG) fueling station in Carson, California, marking a significant step in advancing sustainable transportation. The station, located at 23924 S. Figueroa Street, was designed, built, and is now operated by Clean Energy, while ownership remains with the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts (Districts). This upgraded facility aims to provide RNG fuel for public use, as well as for vehicles operated by the Districts, local transit services, waste management companies, and medium to heavy-duty truck fleets.
The RNG dispensed at the Carson station is produced from wastewater and organic waste processed at the Districts’ A.K. Warren Water Resource Facility. The remainder of the fuel is sourced from Clean Energy’s network of RNG supplies delivered via utility pipelines. As part of the agreement, Clean Energy will oversee the station’s operations and maintenance for a 10-year period.
A Commitment to Sustainability and Cleaner Energy
The expanded station reflects the Districts’ dedication to environmental stewardship by converting waste into renewable resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This initiative aligns with the organization’s efforts to transition its fleet to low-carbon fuels, such as RNG. The Carson station is expected to sell the equivalent of one million gallons of gasoline annually, accommodating the growing demand for clean fuels as commercial and passenger fleets increasingly adopt RNG.
Chad Lindholm, Senior Vice President of Sales at Clean Energy, highlighted the importance of the expansion. “This fueling station expansion comes at a pivotal time as demand for RNG continues to grow and fleets seek convenient access for fueling,” Lindholm stated. “By increasing new locations for fueling with RNG, we help fleets in the region cut emissions, improve air quality in the areas they operate, all while offering a proven, alternative fuel.”
The Districts’ Solid Waste Management Department head, Mark Revilla, expressed pride in their longstanding leadership in sustainable energy practices. “The Districts were early adopters in using biogas to fuel vehicles and generate power,” Revilla said. “We are excited to have an expanded facility and proud to support clean fuel vehicle use. Clean Energy has been a good partner on this project.”
Supporting the Food Waste Recycling Program
The project forms part of the Districts’ broader Food Waste Recycling Program, which focuses on protecting the environment while generating multiple benefits for society. This initiative diverts organic waste from landfills, processes it into biogas, and upgrades it to RNG for use as a clean transportation fuel. The expansion of the Carson station received financial support through a grant from CalRecycle, which helped offset some construction costs.
By capturing methane from organic waste sources, such as wastewater and food scraps, RNG significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional fossil fuels. This innovative approach underscores the role of waste-to-energy solutions in achieving California’s climate goals and improving local air quality.
Clean Energy’s Mission to Decarbonize Transportation
Clean Energy Fuels Corp. is the largest provider of RNG for the transportation market in North America. The company’s mission centers on decarbonizing transportation by delivering sustainable, clean energy derived from organic waste. Through its extensive network of fueling stations across the U.S. and Canada, Clean Energy powers a wide range of vehicles, including airport shuttles, city buses, waste collection fleets, and heavy-duty trucks.
RNG is a carbon-negative fuel that helps reduce climate-harming greenhouse gases. Its production process captures methane—a potent greenhouse gas—from sources like dairy farms, landfills, and wastewater treatment facilities, transforming it into a renewable fuel for transportation. Clean Energy’s leadership in RNG development and distribution plays a crucial role in supporting fleets and municipalities as they transition toward cleaner energy solutions.
A Model for Sustainable Growth
The newly expanded Carson RNG fueling station exemplifies a successful partnership between public agencies and private industry to address climate change and promote sustainability. By integrating waste-to-energy systems with advanced fueling infrastructure, this project offers a model for cities and regions aiming to reduce emissions and create economic value from organic waste.
As the transportation sector continues to decarbonize, projects like this will remain critical to meeting emission reduction targets and fostering cleaner, healthier communities. With Clean Energy and the Districts driving these initiatives, the Carson station is set to become a cornerstone for sustainable transportation in Southern California.
