Electrification proponents are using several strategies to move natural gas bans forward including:

• Organized Campaigns
  • Coordinated efforts are taking place to pursue electrification. Messaging is mobilized through a sustained presence in rulemakings, regulatory proceedings, code discussions, and through letter writing and signature campaigns.
• Redefining Energy Efficiency
  • Electrification proponents are challenging the long-standing fuel neutrality of the Energy Trust of Oregon with the goal of reducing or eliminating energy efficiency rebates available to natural gas customers, and instead support fuel switching to electricity.
• Local bans
  • Supporters of electrification have coordinated with local governments and municipalities to encourage restrictions, or outright bans, of the use of natural gas.

Bend/Deschutes County Voters Support Role for Natural Gas in Region’s Clean Energy Future

In April 2023, Cascade reached out to independent pollster, DHM Research of Portland to conduct a survey to better understand community perspectives on Cascade’s role in a decarbonized future. The results demonstrate that Bend and Deschutes County voters overwhelmingly oppose banning natural gas, and instead want to see continued innovation in natural gas efficiency and decarbonization technologies.

More information on the polling results can be found in the following Bend and Deschutes County summaries.

If you have concerns about policies that restrict energy choice, here’s what you can do:

You’re not alone. A Pew Research Center poll from the end of January 2022, found that a majority of Americans would like the country to keep a mix of fossil fuels and renewable energy to heat and power their homes.[1]

Whether for or against continued energy choice and the use of natural gas as a decarbonization solution, it’s important that all voices are heard regarding our state’s energy future.

Stay informed by logging into your Cascade Natural Gas online account and make sure you are opted-in to receive periodic Company & Industry News via email.

Get directly involved in preserving your energy choice through the NW Coalition for Energy Choice.

[1] https://thehill.com/changing-america/sustainability/climate-change/596376-most-americans-want-us-to-prioritize-renewable

This web page was created at no cost to Cascade Natural Gas customers.