Governor Kate Brown on Tuesday signed into law a sweeping set of clean energy initiatives, giving Oregon the most aggressive timeline in the country for transitioning to 100% clean electricity sources.
Comprised of four bills (HB 2021, HB 2165, HB 2475, and HB 3141), the package requires retail utilities to offer electricity from 100% clean energy sources by 2040 and mandates that providers offer greater support for electric vehicles.
Brown signed the package during a press event at Daimler Truck North America and Portland General Electric’s Electric Island commercial vehicle charging center in Portland Tuesday morning, saying the bills will “address the climate crisis head-on,” while also promoting economic growth.
“With these policies, we will create jobs in a 21st century, clean energy economy,” said Brown. “We will reduce carbon emissions. And, we will make sure the economic, environmental, and health benefits of our clean energy economy reach all Oregonians, especially those who have been disproportionately impacted by climate change and pollution. Oregon is leading the way.”
Brown said the bills will reduce emissions, expand clean energy access, enhance energy efficiency programs and create good-paying clean technology jobs in Oregon —helping ensure the state achieves its greenhouse gas reduction goals while protecting consumers — particularly those in the most vulnerable communities.
“I have continued to make climate action an urgent priority as Oregon continues to grapple with repeated climate disasters, the impacts of which are felt disproportionately by Black, Indigenous, Latino, Latina, Latinx, Asian, Pacific Islander, Tribal, communities of color, low income, and rural communities,” Brown said.
“I’m so proud that we have taken steps forward to address climate change and build a more sustainable Oregon. All the while, growing our economy and creating green jobs. I want to thank the legislative leaders, advocacy groups, community groups, utilities, renewable energy developers, and other businesses who worked tirelessly to see these bills become law.”
