Market saturation report reveals opportunity in small multifamily properties


Energy Trust’s Existing Multifamily program recently completed its 2018 multifamily market analysis to determine customer participation rates and identify energy-efficiency opportunities statewide. The analysis revealed potential opportunities for trade allies.

Findings indicated that 12 percent of all eligible multifamily properties in Oregon have participated in Energy Trust’s Existing Multifamily program. The Portland Metro region reported the highest participation rate, at 19 percent, followed by Central Oregon, at 18 percent.

Property size, measured by number of units, has shown to be directly related to participation rates. Statewide, larger properties with over 100 units had a 65 percent participation rate compared to smaller properties with 2-4 units, which only had a 6 percent participation rate.

Overall, these findings reveal a relatively untapped market among smaller multifamily properties, especially those with 2-4 units. Residential contractors, who primarily serve single-family homes, can use this as an opportunity to expand their customer base in 2019 by providing energy saving retrofits for these properties.

For more information about our 2018 multifamily market analysis, contact Nate Collins, trade ally coordinator, at 503.278.3075.