All utility customers participating in ratepayer-funded energy efficiency and clean energy programs – like those offered by Energy Trust – should benefit equitably from those programs. However, awareness of and access to these programs has historically lagged in low-income and rural areas.
In recent years, Energy Trust has increasingly worked alongside community-based organizations in rural Oregon to address these inequities, leveraging their local knowledge and trust to improve program delivery.
In a 2024 paper presented at ACEEE’s 23rd biennial Summer Study on Energy Efficiency in Buildings, Energy Trust’s Karen Chase presented findings from an Energy Trust research paper called “Empowering Energy Equity in Rural, Low-Income Communities.”
It details Energy Trust’s work with three groups to tailor energy efficiency programs to the needs and characteristics of rural communities, leading to significant gains in participation.
In Josephine County, Illinois Valley Community Development Organization (IVCDO) collaborated with Energy Trust to deliver targeted outreach to businesses and nonprofits about Energy Trust’s no-cost lighting upgrades. By grouping site visits into three consecutive days and leveraging IVCDO’s relationships in the community, Energy Trust was able to efficiently explain program benefits, reduce skepticism and remove barriers to participation.
Klamath Lake Community Action Services (KLCAS) in Klamath and Lake counties is the designated Community Action Agency for the area. Energy Trust worked closely with the group to create an outreach manager position dedicated to working with local organizations involved in residential energy.
Tapping into the Resource Assistance for Rural Environments program at University of Oregon, KLCAS developed a comprehensive energy resource guide and coordinated workshops on new funding opportunities. These efforts, combined with collaboration across local organizations, expanded access to energy efficiency and upgrade programs.
And in Lakeview, Lake County Resources Initiative (LCRI) – a long-standing Energy Trust partner – enrolled as one of the first Residential Community Partner Funding organizations, enabling Energy Trust to work with local groups to facilitate energy upgrades for people with low incomes, including comprehensive home energy assessments and efficiency projects.
In 2023 alone, LCRI did 139 energy assessments and 55 upgrades, far exceeding expectations.
These achievements underscore the value of entrusting community-based organizations to lead energy efficiency efforts, leveraging their deep understanding of local needs and priorities.
The ACEEE event where the paper was presented brings together energy professionals from around the world to share insights and best practices for equitably addressing the climate crisis. As climate-related challenges continue to mount, these examples from rural Oregon offer a roadmap for delivering more equitable energy solutions.