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Groups Tout Clean Energy Agenda for Oregon

Portland OR Calling it the “next logical step in forward-thinking energy policy for Oregon,” several groups today unveiled the Oregon Clean Energy Agenda with an eye toward promoting the agenda in the 2007 session of the Oregon legislature.

“Oregon has been a traditional leader in sound energy policy,” said Jeff Bissonnette, organizing director for the Citizens’ Utility Board of Oregon, a ratepayer advocacy organization.  “The Oregon Clean Energy Agenda simply builds on the already strong framework we have and ensures a cleaner, more affordable energy policy for Oregonians.”

Among the policy proposals contained in the Clean Energy Agenda is a Renewable Energy Standard, which aims to have 25 percent of Oregon’s electric energy needs generated from renewable energy resources such as solar, wind, geothermal and other renewable resources.  The agenda also includes proposals to increase efficiency standards for appliances, extend the investment period for energy efficiency projects, and provide additional tax credit incentives for businesses and homeowners to install renewable energy systems.

“The Oregon Clean Energy Agenda is a comprehensive approach to ensure that Oregon maintains its position as a clean energy leader,” noted Jeremiah Baumann, an environmental advocate with OSPIRG.  “We look forward to working with legislators from both sides of the aisle to pass this agenda because clean energy is as non-partisan as an issue can be.”

“We definitely see clean energy initiatives being promoted and adopted throughout the Pacific Northwest and in the entire western region,” observed Troy Gagliano of the Renewable NW Project.  “It will be critical to pass the Clean Energy Agenda next year if Oregon wants to keep pace with our neighboring states.”

The Oregon Clean Energy Agenda has also been adopted as one of the Priorities for a Healthy Oregon by the Oregon Conservation Network (OCN).  Sybil Ackerman, the OCN coordinator, said that clean energy is key to a healthy environment but also noted that clean energy also held significant potential for economic development, utility consumer protection and support for rural communities.  “The environmental community looks forward to being joined by business groups, faith communities, agricultural interests and many others in supporting clean energy during the legislative session next year.”

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