As the first quarter of 2025 unfolds, California's commitment to clean energy remains steadfast despite federal uncertainties. President Trump's executive order prompted a pause in clean energy funding, creating regulatory instability. Nonetheless, California persists in its efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, aiming for a 48% cut by 2030 and an 85% reduction by 2045. The state's approach involves incentivizing renewable energy projects and transitioning away from fossil fuels. Notably, Senate Bill 1420, signed in September 2024, encourages green hydrogen projects by offering permit streamlining benefits and expedited reviews under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Spearheaded by Senator Anna Caballero, SB 1420 expands the scope of qualifying hydrogen projects for centralized permitting by the California Energy Commission (CEC). This bill also broadens definitions to include hydrogen production facilities in expediting CEQA litigation reviews. To be eligible for these benefits, projects must use renewable energy sources for hydrogen production and secure funding from specific sources like the state-funded Hydrogen Program or the 2024 climate bond. However, concerns arise as federal funding, particularly for the California Hydrogen Hub, faces potential cuts. The Hub, awarded $1.2 billion under the Regional Clean Hydrogen Hubs Program, is among projects at risk of funding reduction. Despite these challenges, California's proactive legislation and commitment to clean energy signal a positive trajectory towards a greener future.