Buildings account for 40% of energy use in the United States. Portland and Oregon have long-standing energy-efficiency programs that address the residential, commercial and industrial markets. Expanding these initiatives will become increasingly important as natural gas supplies become more con­strained. Not only is natural gas used directly in building systems, it accounts for a growing percentage of electrical generation in the Northwest. Strategies should include retrofitting existing buildings and influencing the design of new ones to maximize energy efficiency. 

Action items:

a)     Increase funding and availability for programs and demonstration projects to increase energy efficiency and the use of renewable energy. All buildings in Portland should have energy-efficiency upgrades over a 20-year period.

b)    Adopt The 2030 Challenge put forward by the American Institute of Architects and implement policies and programs to achieve the reductions in fossil fuel use for all new and renovated structures.

c)     Use City leverage in building permitting processes to promote efficiency of both new and existing buildings.

d)    Actively participate in the State of Oregon energy code adoption process to push for changes that align with the City’s sustainability goals.

e)     Provide incentives to encourage energy-efficiency improvements at the time of real estate transfer.

f)     Work with utilities and the Oregon Public Utility Commission to ensure that peak natural gas considerations are incorporated into utility Integrated Resource Plans and into utility rates, policies and programs. Conventional coal-fired generation is not an acceptable alternative fuel, given its high emissions of carbon dioxide, the primary cause of global warming.

g)    Ensure weatherization programs are available for renters.

h)    Assist businesses and residents in installing solar energy systems.

i)      Continue the City’s green building program, offering technical assistance, resources, and financial incentives to residents, developers, and the design and construction industry. Accelerate outreach and services to the mainstream building community.

j)      Promote efficiency and renewable energy for Police, Fire, Water, Sewer, and Solid Waste services. Demand and provision of these services are not expected to be greatly affected by peak oil and natural gas, but they are critical services that should be made as energy efficient as possible and transitioned to renewable fuels.