Energy In the News

Associated Press - May 24, 2007 10:25 AM ET

SALEM, Ore. (AP) - A bill to require the state's largest electric utilities to draw 25% of their power from the wind, sun and waves by 2025 has won approval in the Oregon House.

Supporters say the proposal sets the stage for the state to embark on 1 of the nation's most aggressive renewable energy programs that will generate income for rural economies. It would place Oregon at the forefront of the emerging clean energy economy.

A chief sponsor of the bill is Democratic Representative Jackie Dingfelder. She says the bill is about "taking control of our energy future and using homegrown renewable resources to do so."

Opponents say they support efforts to reduce the state's dependence on foreign oil, but are against the bill because it doesn't offer enough consumer protections.

Oregon's two largest utilities, Portland General Electric and PacifiCorp support the bill.

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