Energy

PGE opens applications for funding distributed energy projects

Portland General Electric (PGE) is now accepting applications for its 2025 Green Future Renewable Development Fund. The program supports innovative and impactful small-scale renewable energy projects, including solar, micro-hydropower, and battery storage, providing reliable, clean, and low-cost energy to Oregon communities.

Since its inception in 1999, the fund has awarded 119 projects, totaling more than $20 million and creating more than 17.1 megawatts (MW) of renewable power generation. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, PGE boasts the largest participation of customers in a renewable energy program among U.S. electric utilities. Following the passage of Oregon House Bill 2021, which introduced new decarbonization goals, PGE announced plans to reduce emissions from its retail power supply by 80% by 2030 and 100% by 2040.

PGE’s Green Future Renewable Development Fund is made possible by more than 225,000 Green Future participants, customers who opt to pay a surcharge on their energy bill in support of renewable energy resource projects for local municipalities and organizations.

“PGE’s Green Future program is a reflection of how much our customers care about the health of their communities and environments,” said PGE director of community impact, Kregg Arntson. “We appreciate the support of Green Future participants as we work together with local organizations to build a more resilient energy system.”

The Fund in Action

Former recipient Northwest Housing Alternatives recently began construction on a new affordable senior housing development located next to Kaiser’s North Interstate medical campus and TriMet’s Overlook Park MAX Station in Portland. The M Carter Commons building will be equipped with renewable solar energy and battery storage devices purchased via PGE’s Green Future Renewable Development Fund.

“We are thrilled to include a solar array and battery backup storage into M Carter Commons, which will allow the community room to become a resilience hub for residents. During prolonged power outages, seniors living in this building will be able to power their phones and medical devices, store medicines, and stay comfortable,” said Trell Anderson, Northwest Housing Alternatives executive director.

Construction for the M Carter Commons building is expected to be completed in late Spring 2026.

2024 Green Future Renewable Development Fund awardees include:

  • City of Tualatin – Micro-hydropower
  • College Housing Northwest, Portland – Solar panels + battery storage
  • Eloheh Eagle’s Wings, Yamhill – Solar panels + battery storage
  • Just Compassion of East Washington County, Tigard – Solar panels + battery storage
  • Parrott Creek Child and Family Services, Oregon City – Solar panels + battery storage

The Green Future Renewable Development Fund application period ends June 30, 2025. PGE will host an applicant webinar on May 22, 2025. To learn more about the fund and how to apply, click here.

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