Policy Briefs

This section of the report provides insights on emerging energy trends, opportunities, and barriers in the energy sector. ODOE began the development of this portion of the report by listening – and then identifying the critical energy questions and issues that we heard from stakeholders, policy makers, and the public. ODOE applied a data and equity lens in determining topics for this policy briefs section of the report – are these questions being asked by people or entities that have historically not been at the table? Do we have the data and information to help answer these questions?

Full Policy Briefs Section

Popular Topics

Equity in State Renewable Energy Programs

Oregon has been a leader in development of renewable energy for many years. Customer-owned or on-site renewables can provide individual financial benefits, societal benefits associated with clean energy production, and economic development associated with jobs to install systems. However, access and benefits of on-site renewable energy systems have not been enjoyed by all Oregonians.

This section will review a number of ways in which Oregonians have gained access to renewable energy including customer or community sited systems, utility voluntary green power programs, and acquisition of large-scale renewables by utilities. This policy brief also acknowledges that access to renewable energy does not necessarily ensure equitable distribution of benefits as many access options require significant financial investments by consumers.


Full “Equity in State Renewable Energy Programs” Brief


Energy Efficiency

In 2020, energy efficiency continues to be a cornerstone of Oregon’s energy policy. As the least-cost and priority resource, energy efficiency is second only to hydropower in terms of meeting the region’s electricity needs. The Pacific Northwest region has achieved 7000 average MW of energy savings since 1978, resulting in millions of dollars in savings for Oregonians.

This section examines two trends that have developed since 2018: the region is no longer on track to meet its electricity energy efficiency goals for everything from greenhouse gas reductions to equity, and at the same time, Oregonians are recognizing and seeking co-benefits of energy efficiency.


Full “Energy Efficiency” Brief

Capitol Building, Salem, Oregon

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