California has made a major decision that could shape our community for years to come. Senate Bill 237 (SB 237), recently signed into law, gives Kern County the authority to approve up to 2,000 new oil drilling permits per year starting in 2026.

For a county like ours — where energy is not just part of the economy but part of daily life — this move has significant ripple effects for local businesses, fuel supply, and ultimately the customers we serve.

Why This Matters

Kern County produces about 70% of California’s oil and has long been at the center of the state’s energy story. For years, local oil producers have faced delays and restrictions on new permits, creating uncertainty for the industry. SB 237 is designed to jump-start production again and bring more stability to the energy landscape.

For fuel and lubricant customers, here’s what that could mean:

Potential Benefits

  • More Local Supply
    With more permits available, Kern County producers can bring additional barrels of crude oil into the market. While global pricing still drives much of what we pay at the pump, a stronger local supply helps reduce dependence on imports and may soften price spikes.
  • Support for Local Jobs and Businesses
    Expanding production creates demand not only for drilling but also for the many services that support it — transportation, equipment, lubricants, and fuel. This can generate growth across the entire business ecosystem in Kern County.
  • Investment in Energy Security
    California currently imports over 70% of its oil. More local drilling gives our state greater energy independence, which benefits businesses and consumers who rely on steady access to fuel and lubricants.

Things to Keep in Mind

  • Prices May Still Fluctuate
    Oil is a global market, and local production is just one piece of the puzzle. Taxes, refining capacity, and regulations will continue to influence what we all pay.
  • Environmental Oversight
    While SB 237 speeds up the permitting process, there are ongoing debates about environmental protections. Businesses may still see new compliance rules or community discussions around drilling impacts.
  • Timing
    The new permits won’t start rolling out until 2026, so the effects will build gradually, not overnight.

What This Means for You

As a local fuel and lubricant supplier, our focus is on making sure your business stays supplied and supported — no matter how the energy landscape shifts. The new drilling permits could bring more stability to the market long-term, but we know there will continue to be challenges along the way.

We’ll keep tracking these changes closely and share updates as they unfold. In the meantime, we remain committed to:

  • Providing reliable deliveries of fuel and lubricants
  • Helping customers plan ahead for cost changes
  • Offering products that keep equipment running efficiently
  • Supporting our community as Kern County takes this next step in energy production

Final Thought

SB 237 is more than a bill — it’s a turning point for Kern County’s role in California’s energy future. For local businesses like yours, it could mean more supply, more opportunity, and more stability down the road.

We’ll continue to be your partner through it all, ensuring you have the fuel, lubricants, and support you need to keep your business moving forward. Let’s keep your fleet fueling efficiently, driving success and savings!