The First Public Hydrogen Authority (FPH2), the new hydrogen-focused Joint Powers Authority (JPA), is quickly becoming a flagship entity in the energy sector. FPH2 was founded by the City of Lancaster and the City of Industry, modeled after the success of Lancaster’s Community Choice Aggregation (CCA). Now, FPH2 is operating statewide and expanding its influence with Cities throughout California to expand hydrogen use.
“We’re excited to bring energy solutions throughout California”, said Chairman R. Rex Parris. “Our team of talented individuals is spearheading positive change in energy to municipalities and organizations.”
FPH2 is the United States’ first public hydrogen utility, designed to connect hydrogen producers with end-users through a transparent, cost-effective model. FPH2 facilitates the procurement, delivery, and development of hydrogen infrastructure, helping municipalities, transit agencies, and private companies transition to clean energy.
In addition to its JPA status, the City of Fresno and the City of Montebello became FPH2’s first partner cities. As a member of FPH2, Fresno and Montebello have access to technical expertise, centralized procurement tools, and a transparent platform to collaborate with other public agencies and hydrogen providers. The cities can also work with FPH2 to pilot early-stage hydrogen developments, including municipal fleets and backup power systems.
“The City of Fresno is proud to be the first partner city to join FPH2,” said Mayor Jerry Dyer. “This partnership gives us a competitive edge as we expand our hydrogen-powered fleet, starting with FAX buses, by helping us access affordable fueling equipment and hydrogen fuel.”
FPH2 is initiating this partnership by working on Fresno’s FAX fleet, the City’s transportation bus operation. FPH2 is facilitating the fleet’s growth of fueling capabilities and fuel sources to ensure the buses can be placed into service. Montebello is utilizing FPH2’s centralized procurement and infrastructure planning to pilot hydrogen-powered technologies, such as traffic signal backup systems, emergency services support, and clean vehicle fleets.
“Montebello’s decision to join First Public Hydrogen underscores our commitment to resilience and sustainable innovation in municipal services,” said Raul Alvarez, Montebello City Manager. “By partnering with FPH2, we’re taking meaningful steps toward integrating clean, next‑generation energy solutions that enhance public safety, build resiliency, and connect communities.”
FPH2 is excited to bring more public agencies into California’s clean hydrogen economy. Cities looking to bring cutting-edge energy advancements into their communities or organizations within California seeking energy solutions will find FPH2 as a flagship entity in the field. To explore membership and join a growing statewide coalition with no cost, liability, or purchase obligation, visit firstpublich2.com and learn more.
About First Public Hydrogen
First Public Hydrogen (FPH2) is the nation’s first public hydrogen utility—a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) that connects hydrogen producers with public and private end users through a transparent, cost-effective platform. FPH2 makes hydrogen adoption easier and more affordable. Inspired by the success of the City of Lancaster’s creation of Lancaster Energy, a Community Choice Aggregator over a decade ago, FPH2 builds on a proven model for public-sector leadership in clean energy. Lancaster Energy demonstrated that a local government could drive market change, and that same vision is now being applied to hydrogen. Governed by a board of directors and independent of federal funding, the authority provides affordable and scalable hydrogen solutions. The FPH2 team is dedicated and ready to support cities in navigating their next steps in the clean hydrogen journey. For more information or to start a conversation, contact us at hydrogen@fph2.org or visit www.firstpublich2.com.
About the City of Fresno
Fresno Area Express (FAX) is a department within the City of Fresno, the state’s fifth largest city. FAX aims to provide clean and reliable transportation for over 10 million riders. In connection with the State’s Innovative Clean Transit (ICT) initiative, FAX has an approved bus rollout plan that details how we plan to achieve a full transition to zero emission of its fleet. In June 2024, FAX received its first shipment of two FCEBs from New Flyer and has successfully placed the buses into service with four more on order with a plan to annual purchase 12 or more per year moving forward.
About the City of Montebello
The City of Montebello is a vibrant municipality located in Southeast Los Angeles County, just eight miles from downtown Los Angeles. With a population of approximately 62,000, Montebello is part of the Gateway Cities and San Gabriel Valley region and serves as a key hub for Southern California’s economic and cultural activity. The city is committed to infrastructure resilience, sustainable development, and public safety.
Visit montebelloca.gov for more information.