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Community Resources

The following energy and weatherization programs are available through local Community Action Agencies and other community service providers:

Oregon Housing and Community Services

  • Oregon Home Energy Assistance Program
    Helps low-income customers whose electric service has been disconnected or is in danger of being disconnected due to home heating costs. Available to electric heat customers of Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power.
  • Weatherization Assistance Program
    Offers free weatherization and energy conservation services to reduce utility bills. Participants receive an energy audit and may qualify for insulation, furnace repair, heating duct improvements and minor energy-related home repairs.
  • State Home Oil Weatherization Program
    Homes that receive space heating primarily from a fuel oil dealer can apply for cash payments for installing energy-saving heating equipment and for making home weatherization improvements through the State Home Oil Weatherization (SHOW) program.

Oregon Energy Fund

Oregon Energy Fund works with 30 partner agencies located throughout Oregon to help Oregonians facing hardships. With the support of their donors, they help with emergency energy assistance. If you are behind on your energy bill, do not wait to be “disconnected.” Find out where energy assistance is available in your area.

Community Energy Project

Low-income seniors and people with disabilities may receive in-home weatherization and safety repairs, including installation of reusable internally mounted vinyl storm window kits that can roll up for the summer and compact fluorescent lights. You can also access free workshops on weatherization, lead poisoning prevention and water conservation. Learn more.

Utility bill payment plans

If you need help paying your utility bills, contact your electricity, natural gas, oil or propane provider. There are multiple options available to customers—including monthly bill discounts, options to pay down high bills over time, and payment plans that result in 12 equal monthly payments over the year to even out high seasonal bills.

Instant bill discounts

Certain utilities now offer Income-Qualified Bill Discount Programs, which provides a monthly bill discount based on your income. To be eligible, your household’s gross annual income must be at or below the State Median Income; however, no financial documents are required to apply. For more details and to apply:

Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund

The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) supports Portlanders in completing climate investments that center equity, serve traditionally underrepresented populations, improve homes with renewable energy and energy efficiency, and support local nonprofits and businesses. PCEF grant funding is awarded to nonprofits to implement projects and programs that benefit Portland communities of color, people with low incomes and other frontline communities. Learn more about how Energy Trust can help nonprofits considering applying for PCEF grant funding.

Energy Trust is supporting nonprofits applying for PCEF funding. Learn more.

Visit the City of Portland’s website for information about free cooling solutions.