Oregon 2023 Regular Session

Oregon House Bill HB3524

Introduced
2/28/23  
Refer
3/3/23  

Caption

Relating to small-scale renewable energy.

Impact

The passage of HB 3524 is expected to have significant implications for Oregon's energy laws and policies. It will contribute to meeting the state's renewable portfolio standards, which aim to improve air quality and public health by promoting cleaner energy sources. Additionally, the bill acknowledges the existence of numerous small-scale renewable energy facilities that already operate in the state and suggests a positive trajectory for expanding renewable energy production. By diversifying the energy supply, the bill also aims to mitigate risks associated with power outages and the technical failures common in large centralized generation systems.

Summary

House Bill 3524 focuses on enhancing the state's renewable energy infrastructure by mandating that at least 10 percent of electricity sold in Oregon by electric companies serving 25,000 or more retail consumers must be generated from small-scale renewable energy facilities or specific biomass facilities. This requirement aims to ensure a robust integration of renewable energy sources into the state's energy portfolio, improving sustainability and reducing reliance on large-scale energy generation methods. The bill emphasizes that these small-scale facilities could significantly contribute to emergency preparedness by ensuring that electricity supply remains steady during natural disasters.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding HB 3524 appears generally supportive, particularly among environmental advocates and renewable energy proponents who view the bill as a step forward in achieving energy independence and sustainability. However, concerns may arise from entities reliant on traditional energy generation methods who may perceive this shift toward smaller renewable sources as a threat to established business models. Overall, the sentiment in discussions surrounding this bill suggests an acknowledgment of the need for clean energy while balancing economic interests.

Contention

Notable points of contention regarding HB 3524 include discussions about the feasibility of achieving the 10 percent mandate by 2030, especially among major electricity providers. Some stakeholders may argue about the logistics involved in integrating more small-scale energy solutions into existing infrastructure and the cost implications. Additionally, there may be debates over the regulatory framework needed to oversee the development and management of these renewable energy projects, as well as concerns regarding the equity of energy access and the potential impact on electricity prices for consumers.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

OR SB1178

Relating to small-scale renewable energy; prescribing an effective date.

OR SB634

Relating to the use of hydroelectric energy to comply with a renewable portfolio standard; declaring an emergency.

OR H0320

An act relating to the Renewable Energy Standard

OR SB927

Relating to renewable energy.

OR HB505

Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard - Renaming and Alterations

OR HB3469

Relating to energy; declaring an emergency.

OR HB3181

Relating to renewable energy development; declaring an emergency.

OR HB3087

Relating to renewable energy; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB3004

Relating to renewable energy; prescribing an effective date.

OR HB11

Renewable Energy Portfolio Standard – Tier 1 Renewable Source – Alterations (Reclaim Renewable Energy Act of 2022)

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.