Racing to zero vehicle emissions in Oregon

Portland is pushing the envelope when it comes to accelerating transportation electrification. Adding to the excitement: Formula E was in Portland last weekend—the premier race for electric cars. The latest generation of Formula E cars are the cutting edge of electric vehicle (EV) technology—reaching top speeds of 200 miles per hour via a 350-kilowatt (kW) electric motor, the equivalent of 469 horsepower. With batteries capable of flash-charging four times faster than the average electric vehicle, Formula E is demonstrating the rapid evolution of EV technologies.

The fleet vehicles my co-workers drive are definitely less powerful – but no less important when it comes to addressing climate change. From electric passenger vehicles and work truck apparatuses for daily operations, to electric forklifts in our yards and warehouses, we are in the process of electrifying the PGE fleet. Even our larger vehicles like bucket trucks are being outfitted with electric systems that allow operation of booms and aerial equipment without the need to have their engines running.

About 40% of greenhouse gas emissions in Oregon come from the transportation sector, meaning electric vehicles are a key part of the solution to reach our state’s climate goals and help address the negative impacts of climate change. And, with significant investments by automakers and new state and federal incentives, EV adoption is increasing rapidly.  

Portland General provides electricity to roughly half of Oregon’s population, and we know we have a significant role to play in powering EVs and charging infrastructure. Oregon is the fourth largest market for EVs in the country and today one in every six vehicles purchased is an EV.

At PGE, we are focused on the necessary planning and investment to make the electrified future a reality. Here’s how we are creating a connected and accessible electric mobility ecosystem that works for everyone:

• Planning for EV infrastructure investment: Through modeling and forecasting, we know where to improve existing and new grid infrastructure, ensuring investment in the right locations and at the right times. We are enhancing existing grid reliability and resiliency as we serve new transportation uses of electricity.
• Focusing on managed charging: The most efficient and lowest-cost time for EV owners to charge their vehicles is during off-peak hours. To effectively manage future load from EVs, we are enabling and scaling tools, like vehicle telematics, that enhance overall electric grid reliability.
• Adapting key customer solutions: As the needs of residential and business customers continue to evolve, PGE is adapting our EV offerings—from residential EV Smart Charging programs, providing rebates for eligible chargers and panel upgrades, to business Fleet Partner programs that assist in planning and installing charging infrastructure.
• Prioritizing equitable partnership and grant offerings: We are working closely with municipalities and non-profit organizations to meet the needs of environmental justice communities and take advantage of new federal funding opportunities.  Working together, we can help historically disadvantaged communities overcome disproportionate barriers to EV adoption.

It is an exciting and pivotal time in the energy industry. It will take all of us working together to address the challenges and seize the opportunities for transportation electrification ahead of us. Whether you’re plugging in at Formula E at the Portland International Raceway, a new EV at home, an electric school bus or delivery van, you’re doing your part to help move Oregon towards a clean energy future.

At PGE, it is our privilege to provide your EV with safe and reliable power.