Sponsored content contributed by AOC Business Partner: NW Natural
Our region is at a critical energy juncture, and there is a growing need for coordinated energy sector planning. While historically, gas and electric utilities have done their planning separately, more stakeholders are recognizing the interdependence of today’s energy landscape.
Electricity demand in the Pacific Northwest continues to grow in large part due to data centers, manufacturing, and electrification. As that demand grows, natural gas plays a vital role in filling the power gap, especially during extreme weather events. January 2024’s winter storm illustrated just how vital coordination across utilities—and investments in both gas and electric infrastructure—continue to be.
How do we meet the region’s growing energy demand while maintaining reliability, affordability, and resiliency? That is what a group of regional gas and electric providers are coming together to address.
Last month, this work was showcased at the Regional Energy Symposium, a gathering hosted by Pacific Northwest Utilities Conference Committee, Northwest Gas Association, Western Power Pool, and Public Generating Pool. The symposium convened policymakers, utility leaders, regulators, and other stakeholders to discuss the challenges of joint energy planning and how to address them. This work will continue to be a significant priority for NW Natural and our partners over the coming years.
As NW Natural readies our system and storage facilities to meet winter’s energy demands, there are also things you can do to prepare for the winter!
Going without electricity for more than a few hours can turn an inconvenience into a significant concern. Many natural gas appliances work in a power outage including:
- Cooktops
- Fireplaces
- Many hot water heaters
- Backup natural gas generators
Click here for helpful videos on how these natural gas appliances can operate safely even when the power is out.
An appliance inspection and tune-up can lower gas bills, improve equipment efficiency, and extend the life of appliances.
We know people are experiencing higher costs of living, and bills can be challenging. NW Natural offers a variety of payment assistance programs including our income-eligible bill discount program.
*NW Natural works in the following Oregon counties: Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Coos, Douglas, Hood River, Lane, Lincoln, Linn, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Wasco, Washington, and Yamhill.