Energy Efficiency in Oregon
Oregon has been a national leader in energy efficiency for nearly two decades. Increased efficiency is one of the most beneficial and cost–effective ways to reduce energy costs and carbon emissions. Since 2001, Oregon’s energy efficiency activities have saved enough electricity to avoid the construction of nearly two large power plants.
Public Purpose Charge & Energy Trust of Oregon
In 1999 the Oregon legislature passed
Senate Bill (SB) 1149. This bill created the Public Purpose Charge (PPC). The PPC collects money from electric bills to fund the Energy Trust of Oregon, energy efficiency programs for public schools, and energy programs for the Oregon Housing and Community Services.
In 2007, the legislature passed
SB 838 to fund the acquisition by Energy Trust of more low-cost, electric, energy efficiency opportunities. The PUC oversees Energy Trust operations as required by SB 1149, the 2005 Grant Agreement, and sets annual performance goals through
UM 1158.
The Energy Trust provides energy efficiency services for customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, Northwest Natural, Cascade Natural Gas, and Avista. Energy Trust also supports small renewable projects, such as rooftop solar and micro hydropower plants, that connect to Portland General Electric or Pacific Power.