How Oregon Can Lead the Clean-Energy Boom — Without Raising Taxes
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By Alexander Ziwahatan Founder, Omnithion | Candidate for Governor of Oregon 1. Why This Moment Matters Oregon is already a clean-energy leader—but our progress masks a deeper urgency. In 2024 , renewable sources accounted for 62% of Oregon’s electricity, led by hydro (41%) and wind (15%). Solar generation exploded—from 104 GWh in 2014 to 2,401 GWh in 2023 , putting the state 17th nationally. Demand is soaring: data centers, EVs, green hydrogen and electrification projects could double electricity demand in the Northwest by 2046 . Meanwhile, threats loom: A persistent drought in 2024 reduced hydro output to a 23-year low, lowering clean dispatchable capacity and increasing reliance on gas . Federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act—with deadlines before mid‑2026/2027 —are driving a race to deploy wind and solar projects before they expire . 2. A Funding Challenge Without New Taxes Oregon’s unique tax landscape complicates growth: We have no sales...