Costco Bets on Thriving Gas Stations as California Pushes for Extinction

Consumers, not government, should decide the future of gas stations and vehicle choices, experts say.

Mar. 21, 2026 at 1:07am

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As California pushes for the elimination of gas-powered vehicles by 2035, Costco is moving forward with plans to open the largest gas station in the United States in Mission Viejo this summer, as well as an even larger 240-pump station in Honolulu in 2027. The contrast between the state's efforts to phase out fossil fuels and Costco's expansion highlights the debate over who should decide the future of transportation - the government or consumers.

Why it matters

This story touches on the ongoing tension between government mandates and consumer choice when it comes to transportation and energy policy. It raises questions about the role of the free market, individual rights, and the balance of power between the state and its citizens.

The details

California Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order in 2020 requiring all passenger cars and light trucks sold in the state to be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. However, Costco is moving forward with plans to open a massive 40-pump gas station in Mission Viejo this summer, as well as an even larger 240-pump station in Honolulu in 2027. This highlights the contrast between the state's efforts to phase out fossil fuels and the continued consumer demand for gas-powered vehicles.

  • In 2020, Governor Newsom issued an executive order requiring all passenger cars and light trucks sold in California to be zero-emission vehicles by 2035.
  • Costco is set to open a 40-pump gas station in Mission Viejo, California this summer.
  • Costco is planning to open a 240-pump gas station in Honolulu, Hawaii in 2027.

The players

Gavin Newsom

The Governor of California who issued an executive order in 2020 requiring all passenger cars and light trucks sold in the state to be zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

Costco

A major retail chain that is moving forward with plans to open the largest gas station in the United States, a 40-pump facility in Mission Viejo, California, as well as an even larger 240-pump station in Honolulu, Hawaii.

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What’s next

The courts will likely have to settle the fate of Governor Newsom's 2020 executive order requiring all new passenger cars and light trucks sold in California to be zero-emission vehicles by 2035.

The takeaway

This story highlights the ongoing debate over the role of government in shaping transportation and energy policy, versus the rights of consumers to make their own choices. It suggests that a balance between state mandates and market-driven solutions may be the best path forward in addressing complex issues like climate change.