The California Generator Ban: what it means for your Production.

The State of California has set the wheels in motion for a significant shift in the way mobile operations, including those in film and TV production, are powered. In October 2021, California State Assembly Bill 1346 was signed into law marking a pivotal moment in the industry's reliance on traditional fossil fuel generators. The legislation aims to curb harmful emissions by prohibiting the purchase of equipment, categorized as small off-road engines (SOREs), in California starting January 1, 2024 and fully implemented by 2028.

Understanding AB 1346

AB 1346 addresses the environmental impact of small off-road engines, encompassing not just generators but also other gasoline, propane, or natural gas fueled equipment like leaf blowers, lawnmowers, chainsaws, and pressure washers. The law does not ban the operation of such equipment, but tightly regulates their purchase within the state of California. SOREs using diesel fuel, and stationary generators are exempt from these regulations (for now). This move is a step towards achieving the goal of zero emissions by 2035 and transitioning to 100% clean energy by 2045.

alt=gas powered equipment covered by the California Generator Ban data-nectar-img-srcset=https://www.antonbauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SORE-Examples.png 1836w, https://www.antonbauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SORE-Examples-300x71.png 300w, https://www.antonbauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SORE-Examples-1024x241.png 1024w, https://www.antonbauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SORE-Examples-768x181.png 768w, https://www.antonbauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SORE-Examples-1536x361.png 1536w, https://www.antonbauer.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/SORE-Examples-600x141.png 600w sizes=(max-width: 1836px) 100vw, 1836px title=Gas-powered lawnmowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, and portable generators are affected. (Source: CARB) />Gas-powered lawnmowers, chainsaws, leaf blowers, and portable generators are affected. (Source: CARB)

This legislative shift holds significant implications for the future of movie and TV production in California, especially those relying on portable generators on sets and events. Planning for this transition is crucial, prompting the media and entertainment industry to explore cleaner, more sustainable alternatives.

A Push Towards Clean Energy

The focus on SOREs, including generators, stems from their significant contribution to environmental pollution.

According to the California Air Resources Board (CARB), the emissions from operating a commercial lawn mower for one hour emits as much smog-forming pollution as driving a new light-duty passenger car about 300 miles - about the distance from Los Angeles to Las Vegas, over four hours of drive time.

Analysts expect the impact of small engine emissions to double that of passenger cars by 2031 in the Greater Los Angeles area.

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While generators may not have the widespread environmental impact of their lawn equipment counterparts, they are still substantial contributors to air pollution. This legislative action prompts people to reconsider their power sources and embrace cleaner alternatives.

What's the Alternative?

With a ban on new gas-powered generators, the question arises: what alternative power sources are available for on-location productions? Relying on the mechanical reliability of existing generators may not be a sustainable long-term solution. Generators are notorious for mechanical failures, a fact well-known to operators who often employ two or three backup generators as standard practice for major events.

Operating only where reliable grid power is available may seem like an option, but it limits the mobility and spontaneity essential to events and location productions. This is where innovative battery power solutions like Anton/Bauer's Salt-E Dog sodium sustainable power solution come into play.

Salt-E Dog: A Sustainable Power Solution

Anton/Bauer's sodium-based Salt-E Dog offers a clean, quiet, and efficient power solution that eliminates the downsides associated with traditional generators.

It offers an environmentally friendly and quiet solution, while also providing reliable power for remote and on-location productions.

Recharging Salt-E Dog from the grid or renewable sources like solar PV panels is an option for filmmakers and producers, providing flexibility and sustainability.

The advantages of battery power sources extend beyond meeting regulatory requirements. They offer a consistent and reliable power source without the mechanical intricacies associated with generators. The need for backup generators becomes obsolete, reducing the logistical challenges of transporting and maintaining multiple units.

A Focus on Health and Sustainability

Beyond the environmental impact, health considerations are emerging as a driving force behind additional restrictions on the purchase and operation of generators. According to a report from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), generators are the product associated with the highest number of carbon monoxide-related fatalities, claiming an average of 80 lives annually in the United States. This sobering statistic has fueled a g

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