Energy Facility Siting in Oregon 101 – A Public Guide
Reviewing and potentially siting energy facilities in Oregon is a complex and sometimes lengthy process. The Oregon Department of Energy developed a guide to help Oregonians better understand the energy facility siting process, and the roles and responsibilities of the Energy Facility Siting Council and ODOE staff. The public guide is intended to help Oregonians effectively participate in the state siting process, and to understand their roles in offering public input on proposed facilities or proposed amendments to existing facilities.
Before a large energy facility is built in Oregon, a developer must apply for a site certificate from the state’s Energy Facility Siting Council. If a developer receives a site certificate from EFSC, it can begin constructing and operating the facility. Occasionally a developer with a site certificate will apply for an amendment to the site certificate. That amendment process, like the site certificate process, must go through EFSC for approval.
The council has seven members who are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Oregon Senate. Members are selected to understand, evaluate, and deliberate complex issues associated with proposed facilities and how those facilities affect people, habitat, and communities. Appointees are also selected to ensure broad geographic representation. Council meetings are open to the public, and public involvement is built into the council’s review. State-level oversight of energy facilities helps ensure that Oregon has an adequate energy supply while protecting Oregon’s environment and public safety.
Get involved! Join us for the next virtual EFSC meeting. Interested in serving as an EFSC member? The Council currently has a vacancy. Submit an interest form through the Governor's office, and contact Todd Cornett, ODOE's Assistant Director for Siting and the Council Secretary, with questions.
Learn the basics of energy facility siting in Oregon and how to get involved in the process as a member of the public with ODOE’s Public Siting Guide.