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State Incentive Programs: Oregon
The Energy Trust of Oregon
Through state legislation, tariffs and other requirements, Energy Trust is funded exclusively by customers of Portland General Electric, Pacific Power, NW Natural and Cascade Natural Gas. Customers of all four utilities pay a dedicated percentage of their utility bills to support a variety of energy efficiency and renewable energy services and programs.
Energy Trust's 2011 budget allocated $13.8 million for renewable energy projects. The Energy Trust uses these funds to support projects through a loan program, assistance for grant applications, potential co-funding of feasibility analyses, and direct financial support for project development.
Energy Trust currently offers incentives for solar electric and solar hot water heating systems in homes. For businesses, incentives are offered for solar electric, solar hot water, and other renewable solutions, including wind, geothermal and biopower.
Eligibility depends on the project type and the customer's utility - check the Energy Trust website for details. Systems must be installed by a qualified Energy Trust solar trade ally contractor. Self-installed systems do not qualify. Visit the Energy Trust website to learn more.
Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC)
The Business Energy Tax Credit (BETC) administered by the Oregon Department of Energy sunseted on July 1, 2011 (Oregon Bill HB 3672). Oregon has created three new business energy incentive programs; however, rulemaking was still be developed for the programs as of January 2012. The new programs will include renewable energy grants, conservation tax credits, and transportation tax credits. Visit Oregon DOE website for updates.
Oregon State Energy Loan Program
The Oregon State Energy Loan Program (SELP) is a state loan program administered by the Oregon Department of Energy for renewable and energy efficiency technologies. The program makes available low-interest loans to individuals, businesses, schools, cities, counties, state and federal agencies, tribes, public corporations, cooperatives, and non-profit organizations and may be taxable or tax-exempt. Further information is available here.
Oregon Community Renewable Energy Feasibility Fund
The Community Renewable Energy Feasibility Fund, or CREFF, is a grants program that funds feasibility studies for renewable energy, heat, and fuel projects in Oregon. All grants have been awarded as of February 2011. There will be no more awards made until projects are completed and funds are repaid. Further information is available on the CREFF webpage.
Residential Energy Tax Credit
Homeowners and renters who pay Oregon income taxes are eligible for the Residential Energy Tax Credit if they purchase solar, wind, geothermal heat pumps, or various efficient technologies/appliances. The method of calculating the credit varies by technology, but tax payers can earn up to $1,500 per year in credits. For more information visit the Database of State Incentives.
