Companies that produce emissions, like natural gas producers, would be affected by Oregon’s proposed Climate Protection Program. (Getty Images)
Oregonians from across the state are weighing in on a crucial program that officials say would address nearly half of Oregon’s solutions to the climate crisis, while positioning Oregon for leadership in the clean energy economy.
The proposal would restore the Climate Protection Program, which sets a declining cap on emissions from natural gas and liquid fuels. A fossil fuel-funded lawsuit invalidated the program on a technicality last year, and the current public comment period marks a milestone in the Department of Environmental Quality’s work to get the plan back on track. In the process, DEQ has made improvements that strike an innovative balance – driving down emissions, advancing equity and addressing the key concerns of regulated industries.
Forward-looking Oregon businesses see many benefits in the program. It creates a long-term planning horizon while aligning industries to do our share in the climate fight.