Energy History Timeline

Oregon’s energy system has evolved based on the state’s natural resources and in response to events like technology development and energy crises. Native American tribes, as the original inhabitants of Oregon, have had their land base significantly diminished or completely removed – this altered the way natural resources were traditionally managed and has resulted in an enduring change in the landscape that influences the options for our energy system today.

Over time, deliberate policy choices helped create not only our energy system but also shaped our society. In order to help shed light on how we got to where we are today, this timeline includes a number of events that unfolded over time and policy choices that Oregon’s leaders and citizens have made in response to these events. A better understanding of how we got to where we are can help us more effectively manage the energy opportunities and challenges of today and tomorrow.

Full Timeline Section