Sponsored content contributed by AOC Business Partner: Energy Trust of Oregon
Disruptions in federal funding are creating uncertainty for energy and climate programs across the country, including some supported by the Inflation Reduction Act. Amidst this uncertainty, Energy Trust of Oregon remains a consistent resource to help people, businesses and communities throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington access energy-efficient solutions and renewable power.
Energy Trust was created by the Oregon Legislature more than 20 years ago as an independent nonprofit dedicated to helping utility customers lower energy costs and generate renewable power. It is funded largely by customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas and Avista.
One of the ways Energy Trust continues to serve the people of Oregon and Southwest Washington is by supporting city and county governments in their goals to advance a clean energy future that builds resilience, promotes equity and supports economic vitality. It does this by providing cash incentives, technical expertise and more. Support includes:
- Building upgrades for businesses, offices, hospitals and government buildings, such as funding new heating and cooling systems in schools to create a more comfortable learning environment for students.
- Early design assistance and energy studies for new buildings and major renovations to incorporate the most efficient technologies and methods.
- Energy storage for critical infrastructure and core municipal services, such as installing batteries with a solar energy system to provide backup power during an outage.
- Resilience planning to increase community sustainability, including fire resistant building practices, efficient indoor cooling and locally generated renewable energy.
- Renewable energy project development assistance and installation incentives, such as installing hydropower in city water systems for clean, reliable energy or developing community solar projects to lower bills for households unable to install their own solar panels.
- A network of experienced local contractors to provide tailored solutions based on the specific needs of various industries.
Energy efficiency upgrades make living and workspaces safer, more comfortable and more affordable to operate. Additionally, by investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy projects, cities and counties can meet sustainability goals and reduce operating costs that help free up funds for core services.
Energy Trust is and continues to be here to provide reliable support and practical solutions to help cities and counties thrive. Learn more about Energy Trust and clean energy solutions at www.energytrust.org.