Governor Kotek recently joined the U.S. Climate Alliance to discuss the Oregon Department of Energy’s Community Renewable Energy Grant Program, and the wonderful project ODOE was proud to support at the Gloria Center in The Dalles.

The Oregon Department of Energy is now accepting applications from potential contractors to participate in the agency’s new Heat Pump Purchase Program, which will provide $2,000 rebates for the installation of heat pumps in owner-occupied homes, rental homes, and homes under construction.

On this episode of Getting Grounded, our energy fundamentals series of mini episodes, we are joined by Michael Freels, ODOE senior policy analyst. He discusses the history of petroleum, the variety of uses, challenges, and how it plays into our overall energy source planning.  

The next regularly scheduled meeting of Oregon’s Energy Facility Siting Council will be held on Friday, June 13, 2025.

The Oregon Department of Energy will soon begin accepting applications for a fourth round of funding through the agency’s Community Renewable Energy Grant Program. ODOE is making $12 million available to support planning and construction of renewable energy or energy resilience projects for Tribes, public bodies, and consumer-owned utilities.

In May's newsletter, ODOE receives $100,000 from the USDA to support more rural and agricultural energy audits, celebrates the history of home energy scoring in Oregon, hits the road with the Community Navigator program, and more.

As we head into June, the 2025 legislative session is winding down — but plenty remains to be seen when it comes to energy, climate, and other bills that may affect the Oregon Department of Energy’s work.

The City of Gresham and Latino Network partnership was a recipient of a $579,841 grant from the first round of ODOE’s Community Renewable Energy Grant Program. The funding supported a rooftop solar and a battery backup system for La Plaza Esperanza.

We continue On the Road in Oregon, a blog series that takes you on a journey through the heart of Oregon's diverse communities with our Community Navigator Program. This month, we hear from RARE Member Sara Lark Millies-Lucke as she and Community Navigator Sarah Moehrke make a 1,300-mile trek in Eastern and Central Oregon.

On this episode of Getting Grounded, our energy fundamentals series of mini episodes, we are joined by Rob Del Mar, ODOE senior policy analyst. He discusses some benefits of solar power, such as the opportunity to provide backup power for your home, and some challenges, including the upfront cost of the equipment. However, once you buy the equipment, the fuel to power your home is free, courtesy of the sun.