http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-congress-and-the-value-of-renewable-energy-opinion By Al Dorgan and Megan Ahearn http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-congress-and-the-value-of-renewable-energy-opinion Tue, 31 Jul 2007 12:30:56 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/bridging-the-urban-rural-divide Lawmakers in Washington should pay close attention to something that happened http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/bridging-the-urban-rural-divide Tue, 31 Jul 2007 12:40:24 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/program-requires-ore_-utilities-to-buy-more-solar-electricity 7/27/2007, 4:21 p.m. PT http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/program-requires-ore_-utilities-to-buy-more-solar-electricity Tue, 31 Jul 2007 12:32:30 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-cant-solve-global-warming-alone-letter I strongly agree with the July 8 online http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-cant-solve-global-warming-alone-letter Mon, 16 Jul 2007 19:24:18 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-enacts-tough-renewable-power-requirement Wed Jun 6, 2007 7:56PM EDT http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-enacts-tough-renewable-power-requirement Thu, 07 Jun 2007 12:44:49 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/new-state-law-revs-up-green-power-standards By Aaron Clark http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/new-state-law-revs-up-green-power-standards Thu, 07 Jun 2007 12:42:52 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/energy-bill-foresees-state-as-a-powerhouse Renewable sources available statewide; new jobs expected http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/energy-bill-foresees-state-as-a-powerhouse Thu, 07 Jun 2007 12:46:38 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-passes-one-of-nations-toughest-renewable-energy-standards http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-passes-one-of-nations-toughest-renewable-energy-standards Mon, 11 Jun 2007 21:30:46 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-explores-its-energy-future The Oregon Legislature is on track to make the state http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-explores-its-energy-future Wed, 06 Jun 2007 18:06:15 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/ore_-gov_-tightens-renewable-energy-laws By CAROL MCCLAIN, KGW Staff http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/ore_-gov_-tightens-renewable-energy-laws Wed, 06 Jun 2007 18:04:20 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/energy-bill-heads-to-gov Mitch Lies Capital Press Staff Writer Friday, June 01, 2007 SALEM http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/energy-bill-heads-to-gov Sat, 02 Jun 2007 15:06:21 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/energys-future-needs-a-push-not-a-shove-editorial Legislature makes a bold statement about developing renewable energy sources Editorial The Lake Oswego Review, May 31, 2007 As Oregon moves to become a national leader in http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/energys-future-needs-a-push-not-a-shove-editorial Fri, 01 Jun 2007 12:13:21 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/chasing-the-energy-hat-editorial An old Irish saying defines the act of commitment as tossing your hat over a wall and then figuring out how to retrieve it. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/chasing-the-energy-hat-editorial Tue, 29 May 2007 13:11:38 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/two-key-environmental-bills-on-way-to-governor Shunning attempts to send legislation updating Oregon's 1971 Bottle http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/two-key-environmental-bills-on-way-to-governor Fri, 25 May 2007 18:42:38 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-bill-passes-in-house Bill requires utilities to purchase 25% renewable energy by 2025 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-bill-passes-in-house Thu, 24 May 2007 10:02:31 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-act-clears-final-hurdle-in-oregon-house Associated Press - May 24, 2007 10:25 AM ET SALEM, http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-act-clears-final-hurdle-in-oregon-house Thu, 24 May 2007 10:06:52 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/clean-energy-bill-sails-through-oregon-house http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/clean-energy-bill-sails-through-oregon-house Thu, 24 May 2007 10:08:43 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-house-approves-landmark-renewable-energy-act Twenty-five percent of state’s electricity will come from renewable sources by 2025 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-house-approves-landmark-renewable-energy-act Fri, 25 May 2007 18:25:38 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-act-clears-house-hurdle SALEM - A bill to require the state's largest http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-act-clears-house-hurdle Fri, 25 May 2007 18:36:35 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-act-clears-final-hurdle-in-oregon-house2 SALEM (AP) - A bill http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-act-clears-final-hurdle-in-oregon-house2 Fri, 25 May 2007 18:41:38 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/smith-backs-plan-to-enhance-renewable-energy-in-ne-oregon (Salem) “A tremendous amount of investment is http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/smith-backs-plan-to-enhance-renewable-energy-in-ne-oregon Sun, 27 May 2007 15:30:15 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/give-oregon-clean-tech-edge-with-energy-standard Guest Opinion By Nancy Floyd http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/give-oregon-clean-tech-edge-with-energy-standard Fri, 25 May 2007 18:33:06 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-could-lead-in-alternative-energy-development SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Oregon could surge ahead of other states in encouraging the development of renewable energy alternatives with the passage of bills before state legislators, but there may be a fight over at least one proposal because of worry over its costs. Lawmakers have considered nearly 30 different energy proposals this session — many legislators call it the "energy session" — but decisions on some of the most important bills are still pending. Oregon is known for capitalizing on its abundant hydropower, but not for other alternative forms of energy, and many lawmakers want to change that. The centerpiece of the energy legislation — and the heart of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's aggressive clean energy agenda — is a bill that would require the state's largest utilities to draw 25 percent of their electricity from renewable sources such as wind, waves and the sun by 2025. Although the bill threatens to split the Legislature down party lines, nearly all lawmakers and lobbyists agree that the proposal to force utilities away from carbon-intensive fuels would have the most and longest-lasting impact. "The renewable energy standard is the policy that alone could make Oregon the leader in renewable energy generation," said Jeremiah Baumann, a spokesman for Oregon State Public Interest Research Group. "Part of the reason it's the most controversial is that it's going to make the biggest difference." The proposal, known as a renewable portfolio standard or RPS, would require investor- and most consumer-owned utilities to draw 5 percent of their power from renewable resources — other than existing hydroelectric dams — by 2010; 15 percent by 2015; 20 percent by 2020 and 25 percent by 2025. But many House Republicans worry about its impact on industry and smaller consumers. "Right now, to my knowledge, this is going to be the most aggressive RPS in the nation," said Rep. Chuck Burley, R-Bend, who opposes the bill in its current form. "In the open competitive market the reason renewable energy isn't being used more is simply because it costs more." Burley isn't the only one concerned about cost. Intel, the state's largest private employer and one of Oregon's largest electricity consumers — and a vocal defender of the environment — doesn't support the bill because it fears it could drive up costs. "When you talk about a $50 million annual energy bill, small amounts can be big dollars," said Bill MacKenzie, a spokesman for the chip maker. Oregon's two largest utilities, Portland General Electric and PacifiCorp, support it and 23 other states have passed laws requiring utilities to move toward renewable energy sources. Failure in the House would jeopardize the high-profile efforts of Kulongoski and lawmakers like Rep. Jackie Dingfelder, D-Portland, who have invested significant political capital to push through clean energy, low-carbon legislation. A few other bills, some of which have passed one or more chambers, are also important components of the so-called energy session: • Incentives and tax breaks for farmers who grow canola seeds or corn that can be used as additives for gasoline and diesel for most cars were part of a biofuels package embraced by Republicans from rural Oregon and easily passed in the House. • A companion bill that also passed in the House increases the business tax credit for firms investing in renewable energy from 35 to 50 percent of eligible costs and could stimulate additional homegrown energy sources. All three biofuels bills are expected to be approved by the Senate and signed by the governor. • The state would establish greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals and a global warming commission that would coordinate state and local efforts to halt the growth of emissions under a bill that has yet to go before either chamber. It would also create a climate change research institute in conjunction with the state's university system. • A bill passed in the House last week requires state agencies to cut their energy consumption 20 percent below 2000 levels by June 30, 2015 through efficient new buildings and renovations to older ones. Supporters say the bill shows that Oregon is serious about increasing energy efficiency and its rapidly growing green building sector. • Increased energy efficiency standards for appliances such as DVD players, bottled water coolers and portable hot tubs would be required in a measure passed in the Senate this past week. The proposal would sync Oregon with Washington and several Northeast states that are using efficiency standards created by California. • Establishing the Clean Diesel Engine Fund to retrofit diesel engines with filters to cut pollution by more than 95 percent is the intention of another bill. The goal is to reduce Oregonians' cancer risk from exposure to diesel exhaust from 23 cases per million people statewide to just one per million. Neither house has voted on it. Though several of the bills could face tough resistance from industry and lawmakers concerned aboutconomic impact, Jeff Bissonnette, a spokesman for the Citizens' Utility Board of Oregon, said there isncreasing pressure on lawmakers to act. "With continuing rising gas prices, with continuing upper pressure on electricity rates, continuing awarenessn global warming and climate change there is a public awareness that we really need to do thingsifferently," said Bissonnette. __ Eds: The bills are SB838, HB2210, HB2211, HB2212, HB3543, HB2876, SB375, HB2172. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-could-lead-in-alternative-energy-development Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:17:12 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/a-big-push-for-clean-energy Oregon has the sun, the wind and the waves. But does it have the will to lead the way on these and many other sources of clean renewable energy? That question is now squarely before the Legislature. A bill backed by Gov. Ted Kulongoski to establish a renewable energy standard -- a powerful incentive in law to expand solar, wind, wave, new hydro and other clean-energy sources -- is pending before a closely divided House of Representatives. Senate Bill 838 would require that 25 percent of Oregon's electric load come from new renewable energy sources by 2025. It is a big, ambitious and complex bill -- the most important environmental and economic proposal now before lawmakers. We strongly believe it should be approved. Here's why: A new standard would spur more clean-, green-energy production, reduce carbon emissions and address the climate change that threatens mountain snowpacks, ocean resources and Oregon agriculture. Twenty-three states already have renewable energy standards, including our neighbors, California and Washington. If Oregon fails to join them, it's likely that much of the clean energy produced in this state would be exported. A renewable standard would help Oregon become a center of new green technologies, creating businesses and jobs. The Oregon Department of Energy estimates that every $100 million invested in renewable energy in Oregon creates 1,250 jobs. Many existing Oregon companies, especially industries highly sensitive to electricity prices, have understandable concerns about a renewable standard. There is a risk that a poorly designed standard could lead to electricity price increases and damage the competitiveness of Oregon manufacturers. However, the proposal includes a 4 percent cost cap, meaning utilities would not have to comply with the standard if rate increases would exceed that level. It also includes a fair system for utilities to recover the costs of investing in clean energy, a plan supported by some consumer groups, including the Citizens' Utility Board. The legislation also has been written to shield small consumer-owned utilities across rural Oregon, which rely on low-cost Bonneville Power Administration hydropower. Utilities that serve less than 1.5 percent of the state load, or 31 of Oregon's 37 consumer-owned utilities, would be allowed to meet a lower standard of 5 percent renewables by 2025. There may be ways to further resolve concerns about SB 838 without compromising its core elements. But in the end, this Legislature must adopt a strong renewable standard. On Friday, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, a panel of the world's top climate scientists, issued a report suggesting that the worst effects of global warming can be prevented if governments act now. The scientists also described a vast potential for renewable energy and said clean energy could amount to 30 percent to 35 percent of the world's total electricity supply by 2030. That's in line with the Oregon standard. This state has the means and the motivation to become a clean-energy leader. All it needs now is the will. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/a-big-push-for-clean-energy Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:21:18 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/approve-25-by-25 Pop quiz: What do wind, waves, sunlight and manure have in common? Answer: They're some of the renewable energy resources that the state's largest utilities would develop to meet the requirements of Oregon's proposed Renewable Energy Standard Act. The bill would require utilities to get 25 percent of their energy from renewable resources by the year 2025 - a challenging but achievable goal that should become part of Oregon law. It is the centerpiece of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's strategy to combat global warming, which the Democratic governor presciently recognizes as the most significant threat facing the state's environment. Despite the measure's scope and complexity, and despite the intense scrutiny of business and utility interests, the Senate voted 20-10 last month to pass the bill. The proposal's future is uncertain in the House, where Republicans are mounting a last-ditch effort to defeat it. Their opposition is both puzzling and frustrating. The bill and its companion measures represent more than four years of work and compromise, involving countless meetings with staff, public officials and interest groups. Despite critics' claims, the proposal won't force rate increases and won't impose undue constraints on either large or small utilities. When Senate Bill 838 comes up for a floor vote in the House, perhaps as early as next week, lawmakers should keep in mind the broad support for this bill throughout the state. In addition to environmental organizations, supporters include consumer groups such as OSPIRG, the Citizens' Utility Board and the watchdog Utility Reform projects - groups that can be depended upon to oppose any proposal that might impose a hardship on ratepayers. Other supporters include Oregon's largest utilities - Portland General Electric and PacificCorp - and a host of rural organizations, businesses and public officials who are eager to cash in on the development of a biofuel industry that would turn forest debris and farm crops into affordable, low-emission fuels. Meanwhile, companies up and down the Oregon Coast are planning to make the state a global leader in wave-generated electricity. Some lawmakers have warned that the bill could impose a heavy burden on rural electric co-ops. But those utilities have been more than adequately protected by provisions that make it easier for them to comply with the bill's requirements. In the absence of presidential and congressional leadership on global warming, states such as Oregon have begun filling the void with their own policies. SB 838 would put Oregon in the forefront of this growing states-based effort to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It would give Oregon one of the most ambitious, creative and aggressive renewable energy standards in the nation, while also providing a welcome boost for the state's long-suffering rural economy. Oregon lawmakers should approve this visionary legislation. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/approve-25-by-25 Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:25:00 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-approves-renewable-energy-bill-after-vigorous-debate http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-approves-renewable-energy-bill-after-vigorous-debate Wed, 16 May 2007 08:42:42 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senators-ok-renewable-energy-bill-supporters-argue-bill-would-also-insulate-oregon-from-volatile-fossil-fuel-prices http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senators-ok-renewable-energy-bill-supporters-argue-bill-would-also-insulate-oregon-from-volatile-fossil-fuel-prices Wed, 16 May 2007 08:38:36 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/power-bill-glides-through-senate-utilities---the-action-energizes-the-governors-clean-energy-goals-but-sb-838-wont-be-an-easy-sell-in-house The Senate easily passed a bill Tuesday that would require utilities to move aggressively into renewable power, adding momentum to Gov. Ted Kulongoski's effort to make the state a leader in clean energy development. Under Senate Bill 838, wind, solar, geothermal and other types of renewable power must account for 25 percent of an electric utility's retail sales by 2025. Intermediate requirements set the standard at 5 percent by 2011, climbing gradually until 2025. State Sen. Brad Avakian, D-Bethany, called the bill a "landmark effort" to reduce Oregon's dependence on electricity produced from fossil fuels such as coal and natural gas. "It's an ambitious standard, but Oregon is an ambitious state," said Avakian, chairman of the committee that pounded out the bill's details. Pacific Power and Portland General Electric, which together account for 70 percent of the electricity consumed in the state, say reaching the 25 percent goal would be difficult. Still, they have supported the bill. "We think we can get to 15 percent by 2015 and have it be cost-effective," said Scott Bolton, a Pacific Power lobbyist. "Twenty-five percent? That seems hard." The vote, 20-10, was split primarily along party lines. Democrats, with an 18 to 11 Senate majority (there's one independent) claimed the bill would fuel clean energy development in urban and rural parts of the state without jeopardizing Oregon's reputation as a state with relatively low-cost power. Republicans warned that the mandates would force rate increases for households and businesses and cause big energy users, such as semiconductor makers and pulp and paper producers, to lay off workers. The bill now goes to the House where Democrats hold a narrower majority, and a tougher fight is expected. Business groups such as Industrial Customers of Northwest Utilities have been lobbying hard against the bill's passage. Tuesday's vote underscored the support the bill currently enjoys, and Democrats, including second-term Gov. Ted Kulongoski, were confident of success. The bill is the centerpiece of Kulongoski's energy agenda. Other proposals working their way through the Legislature include tax breaks for renewable energy and ethanol and biodiesel development. More than 20 states have renewable energy standards, although details vary widely. Supporters of SB 838 said Oregon needs mandates of its own to snag its share of renewable energy development and regain its position as an environmental leader. Critics say Oregon's plan is stricter than most other states and would force utilities to buy mostly wind power. Other renewable resources, such as solar and wave power, haven't yet honed the technologies that would make them cost-competitive, they said. "I call it the 'no windmill left behind' bill," said Dave Nelson, R-Pendleton, who, on a clear day, can look out from his eastern Oregon property and see wind turbines on the horizon. The windy Columbia gorge corridor has become a hotbed of wind farm development, and many rural counties see SB 838 as a way to stimulate faltering local economies. But Nelson frowned at the prospect. "Do I want them in my backyard? No. They're ugly," he said. "They're 260 feet tall, and they go 'woof, woof,' " as the blades turn. Currently, Oregon gets about 1 percent of its power from wind. The rest comes mostly from hydro, coal and natural gas. Pacific Power, owned by Iowa's MidAmerican Energy Holdings Co., and publicly traded PGE were part of a working group that helped craft the bill's details. Critics have accused the utilities of adding provisions that would allow automatic rate increases to cover the extra costs tied to renewable energy purchases. "We're really, really alarmed by the huge change this would bring about to rate-making," said Melinda Davison, an attorney with Industrial Customers of Northwest Utilities. "I've never seen anything this far-reaching." Avakian has countered that consumer protections and a cost cap are part of the bill and that the Oregon Public Utility Commission would maintain its authority to regulate rates. The bill's treatment of hydropower provided another flash point. Only renewable resources acquired after 1995 count toward meeting the mandates, a provision that excludes the huge dams fed by the Columbia and Snake rivers. Critics pounced on the exclusion. "We should be proud of our heritage," said Sen. Roger Beyer, R-Molalla, who called hydro "probably the most renewable power there is." Avakian countered that the "hydro issue is a red herring." The point of SB 838 is to look to the future, not the past, he said. "It's a visionary type bill," Avakian said. "Oregon needs to look forward again. And this does it in a big way." Gail Kinsey Hill: 503-221-8590 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/power-bill-glides-through-senate-utilities---the-action-energizes-the-governors-clean-energy-goals-but-sb-838-wont-be-an-easy-sell-in-house Wed, 16 May 2007 09:05:16 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-oks-renewable-energy-bill2 SALEM - After a vigorous debate, the Oregon Senate passed a bill Tuesday that would require the state's largest utilities to eventually draw 25 percent of their power from renewable sources such as wind, waves, sunlight and manure. A centerpiece of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's effort to reduce global warming, supporters argued the bill also would help insulate Oregonians from volatile fossil fuel prices. The measure passed despite opposition from Republicans who said it might result in higher costs for consumers by forcing new technologies into the market before they are cost competitive. ``This bill is one of the strongest actions this body can take to do our share to curb global warming and protect our increasingly fragile planet,'' said Sen. Ben Westlund, D-Bend. ``It helps brand us as the environmentally clean state that we are. ... This has huge implications not only for today but for our future.'' The bill would require Oregon's major utilities to obtain 5 percent of their power from renewable resources by 2011, increasing by increments to 25 percent by 2025. The Eugene Water & Electric Board's Jason Heuser said the bill had been reworked enough this session to win the utility's support. Earlier, EWEB generally agreed with the concept but had concerns that its own efforts to expand into renewable sources such as wind wouldn't be taken into account when determining whether the bill's standards were being met. "It's hard to argue with all the progress that was made since (the bill's) inception," he said. But most Senate Republicans said the bill unfairly moves the cost and risk of developing new renewable energy sources from private businesses to residential and industrial electricity consumers. ``This is a huge shift of a burden to two groups of people that we need desperately,'' said Sen. Larry George of Sherwood. ``One is our businesses, and two are the most vulnerable citizens who can't afford to pay higher rates.'' The bill allows utilities to recover the cost of investing in new generating sources, such as wind farms, through increases to customers but includes a provision that could release them from the mandate if their costs increase by more than 4 percent of their revenue in one year. Although the legislation allows electricity generated from new ``low-impact'' dams to count toward the standard, existing hydroelectric generation is not included under the bill. Oregon gets about 40 percent of its electricity from hydroelectric dams, according to the state's Department of Energy. Reporter David Steves contributed to this report. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-oks-renewable-energy-bill2 Wed, 16 May 2007 09:37:23 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-state-senators-okay-renewable-energy-bill http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-state-senators-okay-renewable-energy-bill Wed, 16 May 2007 09:38:58 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-vote-gives-boost-to-renewable-energy-effort As the new home of OSPIRG's environmental work, Environment Oregon can be contacted regarding this news release. Oregon senators gave the go-ahead Tuesday for more wind, solar, ocean wave, geothermal and other renewable-energy sources to power homes and businesses in the state. Two-thirds of the Senate voted in favor of Senate Bill 838-A, which requires utilities to generate 25 percent of their power with renewable energy by 2025. Nine Republicans and one Democrat voted against the bill, citing concerns about possible utility rate increases and the exclusion of existing hydropower dams and other energy sources as "renewable." Sen. Roger Beyer, R-Molalla, opposed the bill, saying the state should get credit for the hydropower Oregon already produces, as well as the Brooks garbage incinerator, which generates as much as 13.1 megawatts for Portland General Electric. Forty percent of the state's electricity comes from hydropower, according to the state Department of Energy. Sen. Alan Bates, D-Ashland, who was on the committee that worked on the bill's standard, said that the exclusion of energy sources developed in Oregon before 1995 was intentional. "This bill is about new renewable energy, not about old renewable energy," he said. "It is about looking to the future." Bill co-sponsor Sen. Jason Atkinson, R-Grants Pass, took issue with many of his party members' comments. "We are trying to invest here and invest here now," he said about renewable energy development. "There is no intention to dismantle Bonneville or our reliable, affordable hydropower here." Sen. Brad Avakian, D-Portland, also a co-sponsor of the bill, called the goal a "landmark effort." "It is an ambitious standard to meet, but Oregon is an ambitious state," he said. About the bill Senate Bill 838-A mandates Oregon utilities to generate 25 percent of their power with renewable energy sources by 2025. Key parts include: Renewable energy: Sources such as solar, wind, geothermal, ocean wave, that are built after 1995. Standards: Large utilities must have 5 percent of their power from renewable sources by 2011, increasing in increments until it reaches 25 percent by 2025. Smaller utilities have to meet a lower standard of 5 percent renewable power by 2025. Meeting the standard: Utilities can invest in renewable energy generators, such as wind farms, efficiency upgrades and/or conservation measures. Utility rates: A provision caps utilities' costs for renewables at 4 percent above predicted fossil fuel costs. What's next The Oregon Senate passed the renewable-energy standard bill 20-10. It is expected to go to the House Committee on Energy and the Environment, which could have public hearings as early as next week. Link http://www.leg.state.or.us/searchmeas.html http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-vote-gives-boost-to-renewable-energy-effort Wed, 16 May 2007 10:05:13 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-state-senators-okay-renewable-energy-bill2 SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) - Oregon state senators passed a bill on Tuesday to require electric utilities to make renewable energies such as wind, solar and wave power at least 25 percent of their power supplies by 2025. The bill, passed on a 20-to-10 vote, now goes to an energy and environment committee in Oregon's House of Representatives. It calls for utilities to add renewable energy in stages, beginning with 5 percent by 2011 and rising to 15 percent by 2015, 20 percent by 2020, and to the 25 percent standard five years later. Smaller consumer-owned utilities would have to meet a 5 percent renewable supply target by 2025. Renewable energy added after 1995, including hydroelectricity projects, would count toward Oregon's goal. Oregon's neighboring states have adopted renewable energy laws, with California targeting 20 percent of supplies by 2010, Nevada 20 percent by 2015, and Washington state 15 percent in 2020. About half of the 50 states have set "renewable portfolio standards" that, depending on the state, are either guidelines or rules for the share of renewable power generation delivered to customers. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-state-senators-okay-renewable-energy-bill2 Wed, 16 May 2007 10:06:40 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-passes-oregon-renewable-energy-act-package-will-set-the-standard-for-a-cleaner-environment-through-renewable-energy http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-passes-oregon-renewable-energy-act-package-will-set-the-standard-for-a-cleaner-environment-through-renewable-energy Wed, 16 May 2007 08:31:10 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-oks-renewable-energy-bill http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/senate-oks-renewable-energy-bill Wed, 16 May 2007 08:46:05 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-senate-approves-renewable-energy-bill SALEM, Ore. (AP) — After a vigorous debate, the Oregon Senate passed a bill Tuesday to require the state's largest utilities eventually to draw 25 percent of their power from renewable sources like wind, waves, sunlight and manure. Supporters argued the bill was a necessary step toward reducing global warming and protecting Oregonians from a volatile fossil fuel market. Opponents said they were concerned that setting quotas would increase the cost to consumers. The bill would require Oregon's major utilities to obtain 5 percent of their power from renewable resources by 2011, increasing by increments to 25 percent by 2025. The two largest utilities, Portland General Electric and PacifiCorp, support the bill. Opposition comes from the Industrial Customers Northwest Utilities, which represents users such as Weyerhaeuser, Hewlett-Packard and Oregon Steel Mills. The bill would put Oregon alongside Minnesota, which has a similar law, and California, which recently raised its renewable percentage to 33 percent by 2025. Twenty other states require utilities to draw a significant percentage of their electricity from renewable resources. http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-senate-approves-renewable-energy-bill Wed, 16 May 2007 09:10:23 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/weighing-a-mandate-for-renewable-energy As the new home of OSPIRG's environmental work, Environment Oregon can be contacted regarding this news release. The state's proposal to get a quarter of its electricity from wind, solar, wave or other renewable energy sources by 2025 will hit the Senate floor in the coming week. Portland General Electric, PacifiCorp and other large utilities would be required to generate 25 percent of their power using renewable sources to meet growing energy needs, under the bill. Smaller electric utilities, such as Salem Electric, which serves almost 20,000 customers in Salem and Keizer, would be required to have only 5 percent of their sales from non-fossil-fuel sources in 18 years. Senate Bill 838-A has drawn support from an unusual cast of characters -- venture capitalists, large utilities, the Association of Oregon Counties, the Oregon Business Association, farmers and environmentalists. The reasons read like a list of the most popular phrases this year: Energy independence: The bill would reduce Oregon's reliance on fossil fuels that come from volatile areas of the world. Economic development: The bill would bring billions of dollars in new economic activity to the state, with the development of projects such as wind farms and wave-energy buoys. Protecting public health: The bill would help reduce global warming and pollution, created by coal- and natural-gas-powered generating plants. But anyone who flips a light switch might wonder what the utility bills will look like under the new mandate. And that's where the bill is the most controversial. Large industrial facilities, small manufacturers and other commercial interests are not satisfied with a provision that caps utilities' costs for renewables at 4 percent above predicted fossil fuel costs. The costs "really cannot be determined with any certainty, and the customers bear that risk," said Julie Brandis of Associated Oregon Industries, which represents about 20,000 companies. Brandis said her organization supports a renewable energy mandate, but only if more protections are in place for the consumer. Ann Fisher, a Portland energy consultant, said that the costs also are related to the technology to integrate the renewable energy power into the electricity grid and transmit it to consumers. "It will (undoubtedly) raise rates in the near-term and probably a significant amount," she said. "It is a laudable program, but the technology that would make this cost-effective is not there yet." Natalie McIntire, a senior policy associate of Renewable Northwest Project, said more transmission lines will need to be built, regardless of what generates the electricity. With renewable sources, however, those lines may cost less. "Some transmission planning studies show ... that if we rely more on renewables and less on coal, then there is less transmission needed," she said. "Coal is generally farther away and most of the (energy) load is on the west." Other experts also reject the argument that renewable energy will cost more. "We expect the price of fossil fuels to continue to go up, especially oil and natural gas," said Mike Grainey, the director of the Oregon Department of Energy. "The (renewable energy mandate) will likely result in lower costs." Right now, Grainey said, wind power is between $60 and $67 per megawatt hour. Natural gas is hovering around that same price with future predictions at $75 a megawatt hour, he said. A report released last month by the Berkeley National Laboratory showed that most of the studies looking at rate impacts of renewable energy standards showed less than a 1 percent increase in electricity rates. Six studies showed cost savings. A diverse set of renewable sources also will help keep prices in check, Grainey said. The bill encourages a third of renewable energy to be from resources less than 20 megawatts, typically biomass, solar and small wind projectsT he renewable sources that can be tapped exclude dams built before 1995 or on a protected stream, garbage burners such as the Marion County incinerator, and nuclear plants. The problems of not passing a renewable energy standard -- already in place in 21 other states -- far outweigh its potential drawbacks, proponents argue. "If we don't have a renewable energy standard in place, Oregon consumers would be stuck paying for coal and gas plants that get more and more expensive over time while California and Washington take all of our renewable energy sources," said Jeremiah Baumann of the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group. For a Salem resident who relies only on electricity, not natural gas, for his home energy needs, a renewable energy mandate is the way to get cleaner energy into the state. Ronald Stout said, "These are new ways of having electricity and they do have a cost on those, but once they are developed they probably won't be that expensive." http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/weighing-a-mandate-for-renewable-energy Wed, 16 May 2007 09:56:46 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/friction-builds-over-kulongoskis-energy-bill-the-governors-plan-for-cleaner-energy-has-wide-support-but-power-companies-and-other-interests-could-alter-it As the new home of OSPIRG's environmental work, Environment Oregon can be contacted regarding this news release. The scope and complexity of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's signature renewable energy bill will make for a tough slog through the Legislature, with opposition expected from powerful business and utility interests. "It's going to be a challenge," admitted Jeremiah Baumann, environmental advocate for Oregon State Public Interest Research Group, an active supporter of the bill. The bill would require the state's largest utilities to obtain ever-increasing amounts of their electricity from renewable energy, beginning with 5 percent by 2010 and rising to 25 percent by 2025. If passed, the bill would leave Oregon with one of the most ambitious renewable-energy standards in the nation. Already, behind-the-scenes debate has begun over whether the bill would force sharp rate increases for consumers, unduly penalize small utilities or inadequately account for Oregon's bedrock renewable resource, hydropower. Yet, as hearings on Senate Bill 373 began Tuesday before the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, advocates lined up to testify, underscoring the proposal's widespread support. Kulongoski, the first to address the committee, called the bill "aggressive yet attainable." He said his energy package, a combination of requirements, incentives and tax breaks, "will help Oregon accomplish what we know we need to do and scientists tell us we must do: shift from using carbon-based sources of energy to cleaner, renewable sources of energy." He has the enthusiastic backing of key lawmakers in the House and Senate, consumer groups such as OSPIRG and the Citizens' Utility Board and rural constituents in such areas as the wind-rich Columbia Gorge. The Democratic governor hopes to solidify support among Republicans and business interests by underscoring the economic benefits that wind, solar and ocean power could bring. Given the bill's popularity and the political fact that Democrats control both chambers, even critics acknowledge the bill stands a good chance of passing. It could, however, change considerably from its current form as compromises and trade-offs are made. PacifiCorp and Portland General Electric, which together account for more than 70 percent of the state's electricity consumption, are certain to weigh in, and they're well aware of their lobbying clout. "We really are the linchpins to effectuate this," said Scott Bolton, a lobbyist for PacifiCorp, which operates the electric utility Pacific Power. He said the bill, more than 20 pages long and still in draft form, is in need of "fine-tuning." "We still have a number of questions about some of the concepts and how they would work," he said. A key provision for PacifiCorp and PGE involves a cost cap, which would give utilities a reprieve from the targets if compliance increased rates more than 4 percent. That cap, the utilities said, needs to provide an adequate escape clause. Smaller utilities also are worried about costs. And some dislike the prospect that state mandates could usurp the authority of the local public utility boards. Sandra Flicker, executive director of the Oregon Electric Cooperative Association, said the bill has another striking flaw: It ignores existing hydropower, a clean, renewable resource that accounts for more than 70 percent of her members' electricity supplies. "It's punitive for the state to turn its back on hydro," Flicker said. Adding more politics to the mix, Pacific Power has made it clear it wants changes to a utility tax bill passed by the 2005 Legislature before it throws its support behind SB373. The recently enacted tax bill contains a glitch, Bolton said, that unintentionally penalizes utility investments, including the renewable-energy purchases required under SB373. The tie-in promises a clash with Industrial Customers of Northwest Utilities and other groups that claim the tax bill effectively closed loopholes that benefited utilities at consumers' expense. The industrial utilities group and another influential business group, Associated Oregon Industries, could prove SB373's stiffest opposition. They say the mandates could drive up rates for businesses already hurt by high energy costs. Kulongoski maintains that the bill won't force rate increases and won't slap undue constraints on utilities. He appears in no mood for compromise. In a Monday news briefing, he said the bill and its companion measures represented four years of work and countless meetings with staff, public officials and interest groups. "This bill is the product of a lot of compromise," he said. "I think it's a reasonable approach." Gail Kinsey Hill: 503-221-8590; gailhill@news.oregonian.com http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/friction-builds-over-kulongoskis-energy-bill-the-governors-plan-for-cleaner-energy-has-wide-support-but-power-companies-and-other-interests-could-alter-it Wed, 16 May 2007 09:03:52 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/governor-presses-for-renewable-energy-bill-utilities---the-plan-would-mandate-that-25-percent-of-electricity-sales-come-from-sustainable-sources-by-2025 Gov. Ted Kulongoski on Monday emphasized his support of an ambitious, potentially controversial bill aimed at increasing electric utilities' use of renewable energy. At a briefing with reporters, Kulongoski extolled the virtues of Senate Bill 373, which would direct utilities to account for 25 percent of their electricity sales with renewable energy by 2025. His praise, which preceded today's initial hearings on the bill, was designed to build support for a proposal that could spark considerable opposition from business interests and some utilities. Critics say the bill would impose unnecessary mandates on utilities and could drive up rates for consumers. Kulongoski considers SB 373, known formally as the Oregon Renewable Energy Act, the centerpiece of his energy agenda. He said the requirements, among the most comprehensive in the country, would help make Oregon a leader in the development of wind, solar, geothermal and wave power. "It's one of the principle pieces of legislation we have to get passed this session," Kulongoski said during the Monday morning briefing in his ceremonial office at the Capitol. Interim requirements set the renewable energy standard at 5 percent by 2010, 15 percent by 2015 and 20 percent by 2020. Hearings begin at 3 p.m. today before the Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee, Hearing Room B. "It's the single best tool for Oregon to take control of our energy future and to move us toward energy independence," said the committee's chairman, Sen. Brad Avakian, D-Bethany, who joined Kulongoski at the briefing. Gail Kinsey Hill: 503-221-8590 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/governor-presses-for-renewable-energy-bill-utilities---the-plan-would-mandate-that-25-percent-of-electricity-sales-come-from-sustainable-sources-by-2025 Wed, 16 May 2007 08:55:49 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/legislature-to-consider-energy-bill SALEM - State lawmakers today will take up a proposal to require that a quarter of Oregon's electricity comes from wind turbines, solar panels and other renewable energy technologies. The proposal for 25 percent of the state's electricity to come from renewable sources by 2025 is one of Gov. Ted Kulongoski's top priorities for the session. The Senate Environment and Natural Resources Committee has scheduled the first hearing today on his plan, Senate Bill 373. In a briefing with reporters, Kulongoski said he felt upbeat about the bill's chances. About two dozen states already have renewable energy standards, including California and Washington. But Kulongoski said Oregon's would be the second-most ambitious in the country. The bill calls for intermediate standards to be met along the way to the "25 by '25" target. By 2010, each utility must meet a 5 percent threshold. That would rise to 15 percent by 2015 and to 20 percent by 2020. Besides curbing the production of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases that cause global warming, the governor said his plan could help Oregon's economy. With its diversity of renewable energy resources - Columbia River Gorge wind, waves off the Oregon Coast, central Oregon geothermal power, and burning wood debris from thinned and logged forests, called biomass, to generate heat or electricity - Kulongoski said Oregon is well-positioned to attract manufacturers of the equipment used in renewable energy production. "I have this vision that the state can be the capital" of such production, he said. The Democrat-controlled Legislature is likely to give a friendly reception to Kulongoski's bill. That was underscored by the appearance alongside Kulongoski at his briefing by the two lawmakers who chair committees dealing with renewable energy, Sen. Brad Avakian and Rep. Jackie Dingfelder, both Portland Democrats. So far, the bill has generated guarded responses from groups that have in the past expressed skepticism about government-mandated standards for renewable energy. Julie Brandis of Associated Oregon Industries said industrial customers were leery of a requirement that utilities expand into potentially expensive alternatives to hydro-power and plants that generate electricity by burning coal or natural gas. Kulongoski's bill puts a 4 percent cap on the cost increases that result from the shift to renewables, but Brandis said that still could force big costs onto ratepayers. Despite such concerns, Brandis said her group was not opposed to the plan. "At the end of the session we all want to be there supporting something," she said. "We'll just have to see how the Legislature wants to moderate and involve themselves in this debate." Tom O'Connor, who lobbies for the Oregon Municipal Electric Utilities Association, said one of his group's biggest concerns was that a renewable energy proposal would force small utilities to give up "100 percent greenhouse gas-free" hydro-electricity from the federal dam system operated by the Bonneville Power Administration in order to meet the 25 percent standard. But he said a couple provisions in the bill appeared to have addressed that concern. One exemption covers utilities that contribute less than 1 percent of the total state energy load. That would apply to 28 of the 37 public utilities in Oregon, according to the governor's office. In Lane County, the Eugene Water & Electric Board and the Springfield Utility Board would not be exempted because their electricity loads each exceed the 1 percent mark. Another provision lets utilities continue using their full allotment of BPA electricity, even if that means missing the renewable-energy standards. After focusing on the details for more than a year in various work groups and task forces, Kulongoski said just about every possible objection from industrial customers and public utilities had been taken into account. "They've thought of just about every argument that could come up," Kulongoski said. Still, he said additional work would most likely take place as the bill goes through the public-hearing process. Lobbyist Jason Heuser said EWEB supported Kulongoski's direction philosophically. "In the big picture, EWEB is open to operating under a renewable energy standard," he said, noting that the public utility already has expanded into such renewables as wind and the use of biomass years ago. However, he said, the bill would have to be thoroughly worked over to ensure it addresses concerns such as whether all of EWEB's renewable energy investments were counted toward the standard. NEXT STEP The renewable energy proposal, Senate Bill 373, gets its first public hearing today. Where: Senate Environment and Energy Committee, Capitol Hearing Room B When: 3 p.m. Online: Find the bill and streaming video and audio coverage at www.leg.state.or.us http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/legislature-to-consider-energy-bill Wed, 16 May 2007 09:34:40 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-gets-boost-in-bill As the new home of OSPIRG's environmental work, Environment Oregon can be contacted regarding this article. As Oregon's need for electricity grows, Gov. Ted Kulongoski and several legislators hope to draw more from wind, solar, wave and other renewable energy sources than from fossil fuels. Their proposal -- which calls for 25 percent of the state's electricity in 2025 to be from new and renewable energy -- also will help reduce global-warming pollution and Oregon's dependence on foreign fuel, proponents said. "If you want to have an impact on climate change and make the world more safe and secure, the answer is to move away from the importation of fossil fuels," Kulongoski said. "There are so many pieces that are good for Oregon and for the nation." The renewable-energy standard, Senate Bill 373, is part of the governor's comprehensive clean-energy initiative. The state's largest utility, Portland General Electric, supports the new renewable energy standard even though it would mean aggressively pursuing renewable sources in the future. The company predicts that electricity needs will grow by 2 percent each year -- the equivalent of adding a new Oregon city annually, said PGE's spokesman Steve Corson. Less than 4 percent of PGE's sources are considered renewable now. The standard does not include existing hydropower sources, which make up about 40 percent of the company's energy sources. Corson said, in addition to the available wind technology, PGE is supporting emerging technologies such as wave generation off the Oregon Coast. Opponents argue that Oregon's proposed renewable energy standard doesn't acknowledge that Oregonians already use a significant amount of renewable energy -- hydropower. "If the goal is to adopt a renewable (energy) standard to do our fair share for reducing emissions then we have to take credit for what we have done to date," said Michael Early, the executive director of Industrial Customers of Northwest Utilities, which represents pulp-and-paper plants, the high-tech industry and others. "If we are doing it to have renewable businesses to come here, it is unfair to place the burden on existing customers." Early said industrial customers are particularly sensitive to higher utility costs because they are large consumers of energy. Jeremiah Baumann, an environmental advocate with the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group, said studies have shown there is no evidence that a renewable energy standard increases customers' rates. In fact, Colorado projected it will save $170 million in the next decade because of investments in renewable sources. Including hydropower in a renewable energy standard for Oregon defeats the purpose of drawing from clean energy for future needs, Kulongoski said. "If you included existing hydro, there would be no investment in new renewable resources," Kulongoski said. "You have to push the industry in new technologies." Smaller utilities are worried about being lumped with larger, investor-owned utilities, such as PGE. Sandy Flicker, who represents the state's 18 electric cooperatives, said smaller utilities would have to pass all their expenses to the customers. Also, the mandate essentially takes local control away from the cooperative's board of directors, she said. Salem Electric, which serves 18,000 customers in West Salem and Keizer, spent three years searching for affordable renewable energy, said Terry Kelly, the member services manager for the cooperative. "We struggled for two to three years to find something that was affordable," he said. "The 4.5 percent (of renewables) that we found raised our rates 1 percent. If we are talking about 25 percent, you can do the math." Under the most recent draft of the proposed renewable energy standard, Salem Electric would be exempted because it makes up less than 1 percent of the state's energy load. Other small utilities won't be so lucky, Flicker said. But renewable energy proponents called the proposal a compromise that, in the end, will push Oregon to live up to its "green" reputation. "There is a spirit in this bill," said Sen. Brad Avakian, D-Portland. "We are prompting not just the industry but all of Oregon to be forward-thinking again." bcasper@StatesmanJournal.com or (503) 589-6994 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/renewable-energy-gets-boost-in-bill Wed, 16 May 2007 09:51:27 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-takes-a-leadership-role Legislativeproposals tout use of biofuels and better energy efficiency BETH CASPER Statesman Journal January 25, 2007 Oregon is poised to be a national leader in renewable energy and responder to climate change if the legislature acts on a series of biofuel, tax credit and renewable energy proposals this session, program proponents said Wednesday. In addition to his five energy legislative proposals, Gov. Ted Kulongoski is backing a proposal that would force utilities to increase energy efficiency, increase their reliance on renewable energy and limit greenhouse gas emissions. He said he would work with other Western states to discuss a regional program called cap-and-trade, but an initial program just within Oregon also is viable, said David Stewart-Smith, the chairman of the governor's task force on this program. Stewart-Smith made his formal recommendation to the governor as part of a discussion on the next steps the state should take to address global warming and move toward energy independence. Stewart-Smith said the program would reduce the average cost to utility customers, but only if energy conservation measures were also adopted. The cap-and-trade program is only one piece of the governor's plan to reduce greenhouse gases within the state -- which would help halt, or even reverse, the global warming trend. Among the state's goals are: By 2010, arrest growth of greenhouse gas emissions. By 2020, reduce greenhouse gas emissions to 10 percent below 1990 levels. By 2050, reduce greenhouse gases to 75 percent below 1990 levels. Oregon State University professor Jane Lubchenco, who was chairwoman of the governor's advisory group on global warming, said that it is urgent that global-warming policies are enacted now. She said that conclusive evidence shows that climate change is real and it's happening even faster and with more detrimental consequences than originally predicted. Lubchenco said that Oregon's leadership -- in concert with actions in California and other states -- could force federal dialogue on global-warming policies. "If we enact our priorities this session, we will create a sustainable economy and a sustainable environment for future generations," Kulongoski said. "We can't wait any longer." "Global-warming pollution takes awhile to have an effect on temperature, and temperature takes awhile to have an effect on snow levels and the sea," said Jeremiah Baumann of the Oregon State Public Interest Research Group. "Even if we could stop all global-warming pollution now, the Earth would continue to warm. It's good news for the country -- and the planet really -- that Oregon is ready to take a leadership role." Just an hour after the governor's remarks on climate change, the House Committee on Energy and the Environment began hearings on biofuels legislation. The package of proposals includes a requirement that biodiesel and ethanol are ingredients of fuels sold in Oregon, expansion of property tax incentives for biofuel production facilities and creation of an income tax incentive for consumer use of biofuel. The biofuels package is one of the pieces of the governor's climate change initiative, but it also is touted as a key to economic development and energy independence for Oregon. It's the third legislative session for some of these proposals. Jeff Kropf, a former Republican legislator and grass seed farmer from Sublimity, testified in front of the committee Tuesday. He proposed similar legislation last session with Rep. Jackie Dingfelder, D-Portland, who supports the biofuels package this year. Kropf said that promoting the biofuel industry in Oregon is also good for air quality. Burning biodiesel instead of regular diesel reduces particulates in the air, and both biodiesel and ethanol reduce carbon emissions, said Andrew Ginsburg of the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality. Governor's legislative proposals Senate Bill 232: Authorizes state agencies to develop renewable energy on state forests, campuses and other state lands. This bill will help achieve the governor's goal for state agencies to meet 100 percent of their electricity needs from renewables by 2010. House Bill 2211: The Business Energy Tax Credit is amended to provide greate incentives for renewable energy -- including increasing credit for renewable energy systems installed by businesses from 35 percent to 50 percent and increases the project cost limit from $10 million to $20 million; and providing that the costs of constructing facilities to manufacture renewable energy systems and components are eligible for the increased tax credit for renewable energy. House Bill 2212: Changes to the Residential Energy Tax Credit to allow use of the credit for more than one qualifying item in the same year, e.g. for a solar water heater and for a solar electric system; and increases the maximum tax credit for fuel cells and for wind generation from $1,500 to $6,000 over four years. House Bill 2210: Biofuels Fuels Package expands property tax incentives for biofuel and certain fuel additive production facilities; establishes a new tax credit for producers and collectors of biofuel raw materials; establishes a Renewable Fuel Standard for biodiesel and ethanol based on in-state production; provides that the existing mandate on state agencies to use ethanol also applies to biodiesel; creates an income tax incentive for consumer use of biofuel. House Bill 2209: Establishes a Renewable Portfolio Standard for electricity. The bill requires that 25 percent of Oregon's electric load come from new renewable energy by 2025. Links http://oregon.gov/ENERGY/GBLWRM/docs/GWReport-FInal.pdf The Carbon Allocation Task Force report: http://oregon.gov/ENERGY/GBLWRM/CATF-Rpt-Ltrs.shtml The Climate Change Integration Group report: http://Oregon.gov/ENERGY/GBLWRM/docs/CCIG_Interim_Report_Final.pdf http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/oregon-takes-a-leadership-role Wed, 16 May 2007 09:47:55 -0500 http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/bridging-oregons-urban-rural-divide By JEREMIAH BAUMANN and DON COATS Oregonians should pay close attention to something rare http://www.environmentoregon.org/in-the-news/energy/energy/bridging-oregons-urban-rural-divide Wed, 13 Jun 2007 14:08:42 -0500