Kern’s Energy Future: Legacy + Innovation, Not Either/Or | SB 237 & California Energy Policy

As Kern County prepares to resume oil and gas permitting in 2026 under SB 237, explore why a balanced approach—oil plus renewables—is critical to California’s energy affordability, reliability, and security.

Kern’s Energy Future: Legacy + Innovation, Not Either/Or

Why Kern County Matters More Than Ever

What role does Kern County play in California’s energy system?

Kern County sits at the center of California’s energy system — and its future.

Today, Kern produces approximately 70% of California’s oil and more than 50% of the state’s renewable generation. Few regions in the country play such a critical role across both traditional and clean energy. That dual leadership positions Kern not as a battleground of competing ideologies, but as a proving ground for what practical, reliable, and affordable energy looks like in action.

The conversation about energy in California often frames oil and renewables as opposing forces. In Kern County, reality tells a different story.

The Reality: Energy Affordability and Security Are at Stake

Why does local energy production matter for California?

Despite California’s ambitious climate goals, the state still relies heavily on imported energy. More than 60% of crude refined in California comes from foreign sources, according to the California Energy Commission (2024).

That dependence has real consequences:

• Higher and more volatile energy costs

• Reduced supply reliability

• Less local control over critical infrastructure

Local production matters — not as an ideological stance, but as an economic and operational necessity for families, businesses, and communities.

SB 237 and Kern County’s Permitting Momentum

What is SB 237 and why does it matter now?

The recent announcement that Kern County will resume oil and gas permitting in 2026 following SB 237 marks an important step toward restoring regulatory clarity.

SB 237 represents progress — but it is not the finish line. Predictable, timely permitting is essential to:

• Protect local jobs

• Support responsible production

• Maintain reliable energy supply

• Stabilize costs for consumers

As Kern County moves forward, continued momentum will be critical to ensure policy aligns with real-world energy needs.

Leading with Standards, Not Sides

Kern County’s producers have long set the benchmark for safe and environmentally responsible production. The region’s track record proves that strong environmental standards and reliable energy production are not mutually exclusive.

As David Wolfer, Executive Chairman of the Board at Agilitech, notes:

“Kern producers set the standard for safe and environmentally responsible production. SB 237 is a positive step, but not the finish line. If California is serious about energy security and affordability, it must build on this momentum and ensure policy supports local production, protects jobs, and delivers reliable energy for families and businesses.” 

This approach — pragmatic, standards-driven, and community-focused — is what positions Kern as a leader rather than a follower.

Oil + Renewables: The Common-Sense Path Forward

Are oil and renewable energy competing or complementary?

Kern’s strength lies in its ability to do what few regions can: lead across both legacy energy and renewables.

Oil and renewables are not competing solutions. Together, they deliver:

• Local jobs that support regional economies

• Stabilized energy costs through diversified supply

• Lower emissions through smarter, integrated systems

• Local energy production that reduces reliance on imports

Oil + Renewables = Local, Reliable, Affordable Energy.

This balanced approach reflects how energy systems actually work — and how communities benefit most.

Turning Policy Momentum into Real-World Impact

Policy alone doesn’t lower utility bills or improve reliability. Execution does.

At Agilitech, we bring this integrated energy approach to life by helping businesses:

• Cut utility costs by over 50%

• Improve operational resilience and reliability

• Reduce emissions without sacrificing performance

• Invest in energy solutions that align with both economic and sustainability goals

As Martin Alonzo, President & CEO of Agilitech, explains:

“Kern has always led in energy innovation. Our oil legacy and renewable expertise complement each other — together, they deliver local energy, local jobs, lower costs, and real investment in our communities.” 

Kern’s Role in California’s Energy Future

How does Kern County shape California’s long-term energy future?

Kern County stands at the forefront of California’s energy future — not by choosing sides, but by leading with proven standards and practical solutions.

As permitting resumes and policy continues to evolve, the opportunity is clear: build on what works, protect what matters, and invest in energy systems that serve communities today while preparing for tomorrow.

Lead the Way in Local Energy

With Agilitech, your business gains:

• Reduced energy costs

• Improved reliability and resilience

• Support for local jobs and communities

• Cleaner, smarter, integrated energy solutions

Local + Reliable + Affordable — that’s the power of integrated energy.

→ Schedule your energy strategy consultation today.