The following is an update provided by the Oregon Department of Energy on proposed legislation in the Oregon legislature.

This legislative session, the Oregon Department of Energy introduced House Bill 2447 and House Bill 2448. If passed, these bills would affect the department’s Energy Development Services.

HB 2447 modifies the Residential Energy Tax Credit program. Residential Energy Tax Credits are available to all Oregon homeowners or tenants interested in personal income tax credits for a wide variety of high-efficiency residential products. The bill proposes to:

• Extend the sunset date
• Impose a 50 percent cost cap (tax credit up to 50 percent of the total cost of the device)
• Give the Oregon Department of Energy authority to adjust incentives based on market conditions through rulemaking.

HB 2448 modifies the Energy Incentives Program available to businesses, nonprofits and public entities. The program includes grants for renewable energy development projects and tax credits for energy conservation and transportation projects. The bill proposes to:

• Extend the sunset date for conservation, alternative fuel vehicle infrastructure and fleets, and renewable energy development programs
• Require conservation projects with annual project costs of $1 million or more to recertify the tax credit, ensuring greater

The Oregon legislative website is a resource for you as the session progresses.