Washington’s Clean Fuel Standard exceeds emissions reductions expectations for second year in a row

A new report from the Washington Department of Ecology shows that the Clean Fuel Standard exceeded its carbon emissions reduction target for the second year in a row and generated tens of millions of dollars for clean fuel innovation and affordable clean transportation options in local communities.

In 2024, the program eliminated 3 million metric tons of greenhouse gases for less than a tenth of a cent per gallon of gasoline-more than triple the reduction required under state law and the equivalent of taking about 10% of Washington's gas-powered cars off the road for an entire year. Clean fuel producers and local utilities also earned over $67 million that can be invested in further decarbonizing transportation fuels and projects that reduce emissions and provide community services.

"The Clean Fuel Standard continues to prove itself to be one of the most cost-effective climate policies," said Ecology Director Casey Sixkiller. "It's time to get off the fossil fuel roller coaster and switch to cheaper, more reliable clean energy."

Transportation accounts for 40% of Washington's carbon emissions, making it the state's single largest source of climate pollution. Transportation is also a major contributor to harmful pollutants linked to cancer, asthma, lung disease, and heart disease. The Clean Fuel Standard reduces pollution by creating a revenue stream for producers of cleaner transportation fuels, including electric utilities, that can be used instead of fossil fuels. So far, electric vehicle charging stations at multifamily apartment buildings, public transit agencies, grocery stores, and other locations have been a major driver of greenhouse gas reductions. Renewable diesel and ethanol have also played a large role.

Revenues from the program's early years are already fueling new investments in clean transportation. In March 2026, Puget Sound Energy launched a $7.2 million grant program funded entirely by the Clean Fuel Standard. The program supports organizations like Community Action Skagit, which is using the funds to purchase an electric van that brings essential services like healthcare directly to low-income residents. Paired with state-led efforts to give consumers more clean vehicle choices, the Clean Fuel Standard is helping expand access to more affordable, low-carbon transportation options.

"This policy is delivering real benefits to real people," said Sixkiller. "It's funding innovative projects that reduce emissions while also expanding access to essential services, lowering costs for communities and businesses, and improving public health."

Ecology expects even bigger emissions reductions from the Clean Fuel Standard moving forward. During the 2025 legislative session, lawmakers strengthened the policy, and Ecology is updating its regulations to implement those changes.