2020 in Review: Finding Hope in the Future of Oregon Utilities

What a year. My heart goes out to all Oregonians affected by 2020 challenges: COVID-19’s public health and economic devastation, addressing systemic racism, and unprecedented wildfires. As the year closes, though, I am hopeful.

I find hope in the generosity of CUB members. Despite the economic downturn, CUB members stepped up and donated to support our work. In a year when too many Oregonians could not afford their utility bills, CUB’s work as an advocate for residential utility customers has been all the more important. I am grateful to everyone who contributed to our work.

I find hope in Oregon’s response to utility customers affected by the pandemic. I am so proud of CUB’s COVID-19 Energy Utility Customer Protection Plan which mapped out strong and innovative recommendations. Commissioner Mark Thompson of the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC) called our Plan a “watershed moment” in the PUC’s customer impact investigation, a well-deserved compliment to my hardworking staff.

I find hope in building the future of equitable utility systems. This year saw robust discussion at CUB’s 10th Annual Policy Conference, Finding Hope: Improving Our Energy Systems in the Age of COVID-19. Oregon’s ongoing commitment to addressing climate was evident in the tenor of the day’s dialogue. And it was an honor to have CUB’s decarbonization policy work recognized by Governor Kate Brown in her opening remarks at our conference. Much more progress is needed in the coming months and years, but in the meantime, CUB is focused on ensuring vigorous implementation of Governor Brown’s Executive Order on Climate Action.

I find hope in the closing of coal plants. These closings come from the work of CUB and allied groups. Portland General Electric closed its Boardman facility in October. This was the culmination of work that CUB began in 2008 with analysis showing it was more economical to shutter Boardman in 2020 and avoid spending $500 million to meet air quality regulations. PacifiCorp, whose northwestern component is Pacific Power, is also shuttering coal plants. With pushing from CUB, Pacific Power will close its Cholla 4 coal plant in Arizona by the end of 2020 and additional coal facility retirements are expected.

I find hope in utility resource planning that emphasizes decarbonization. Resource plans from both Pacific Power and Portland General Electric include more investments in renewables and energy efficiency. CUB’s work during these planning efforts includes ensuring that decarbonization steps are also affordable for customers, with protections for fixed- and lower-income residents.

I find hope in reporting to you that all of us here at CUB are safe and continue to work effectively, despite all the challenges. I hope you and yours are also safe and managing the emotional and economic challenges of COVID-19. We are working hard through the end of this year and building toward an even more successful 2021. But we cannot succeed without your financial support. Your contribution, at whatever level you can give, is needed and much appreciated.

This work cannot happen without the backing of our members. To do even more in 2021, we are asking for you to donate before the end of the year for $5 or more.

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