Pauses in federal funding are creating uncertainty for energy and climate programs across the country, including some supported by the Inflation Reduction Act. These pauses do not affect the support Energy Trust of Oregon offers to people and organizations in Oregon and southwest Washington.

Like other state entities such as the Oregon Department of Energy, Energy Trust remains a consistent resource to help people, businesses and communities access energy-efficient solutions and renewable power. Energy Trust was created by the Oregon Legislature more than 20 years ago and is funded largely by customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas and Avista in Oregon and southwest Washington.

One of the ways Energy Trust supports people and businesses in Oregon and parts of Southwest Washington is by offering cash incentives to lower the cost of energy-saving home upgrades, such as installing energy-efficient heating and cooling and adding insulation. Beyond individual homes, Energy Trust provides funding and support for larger projects that improve energy efficiency and expand clean energy use across the state. This work includes:

• Home upgrades, like incentives for installing insulation and highly efficient heating and cooling systems. There are also available rebates on equipment, like air purifiers or smart thermostats.
• Building upgrades for businesses, offices, hospitals and community centers, like funding new heating and cooling systems in schools to create a more comfortable learning environment for students. Learn more about upgrades and incentives available for building upgrades here.
• Renewable energy, like installing hydropower in city water systems for clean, reliable energy or developing community solar projects to lower bills for households unable to install their own solar panels. Learn more about how to add solar to your home or business here.
• New construction, like helping developers build energy-efficient apartment buildings to help keep energy costs low for renters. Learn more about how Energy Trust can help with new buildings here.
• Agricultural improvements, like helping farmers upgrade irrigation systems to save water, reduce costs and improve operations. Learn more about options for agricultural and industrial businesses here.

Energy Trust also offers technical support and can connect people and businesses to experienced contractors in our Trade Ally Network.

Energy Trust will continue providing reliable support and practical solutions to help customers save money and access clean energy.