Renewable energy act clears final hurdle in Oregon House

SALEM — A bill to require the state’s largest electric utilities to draw 25 percent of their power from renewable resources by 2025 won approval Wednesday in the Oregon House.

Advocates said the proposal sets the stage for the state to embark on one of the nation’s most aggressive renewable energy programs, while generating income for rural economies.

The proposal passed 40-19. It has been approved by the Senate, but will return there for action on House amendments before heading to Gov. Ted Kulongoski, who has said he will sign it.

The bill requires investor-owned utilities, as well most consumer-owned utilities, to draw 5 percent of their power from wind, sun, geothermal and other renewable resources by 2010, increasing by increments until the figure is 25 percent in 2025.

The bill would not include existing hydroelectric power.

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The bill is SB838.