Oregon legislators have raised the state’s energy law to 50% renewables by 2040 in a bipartisan decision agreed on Wednesday.
The measure – which affects Oregon’s two largest utilities, Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power – doubles the renewable portfolio standard from the current 25% by 2025 target. It outlines intermediate steps of 27% in 2025, 35% in 2030 and 45% in 2035.
The law also sets firm timelines for eliminating coal-fired generation by 2035.
PGE’s president Jim Piro said: “We were pleased to be part of a collaborative process that puts Oregon’s electricity sector on a path to achieve its state carbon reduction goals as we plan for Oregon’s energy future.
“This is a sensible approach that reflects our customers’ values while maintaining the affordability and reliability of electric service.”
The bill now moves to governor Kate Brown’s desk to be signed into law.
Oregon has 3.3GW of installed renewable energy capacity. States with renewable energy policies of 50% or higher include Hawaii, California and Vermont.
Image: Oregon’s 845MW Shepherds Flat wind farm (Blattner)
