Oregon’s Shocking Move to Slash Greenhouse Gases: New Rules Ready for Public Scrutiny!

Oregon’s Ambitious Climate Goals Under Review

Oregon is taking bold steps to regulate fossil fuel companies and dramatically cut greenhouse gas emissions. After a legal setback, the state is now inviting public comments on its revamped Climate Protection Program. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has published draft regulations, hoping to put its landmark climate laws back into action by the year’s end.

Key elements from the original program remain intact, with targets set to achieve a 50% reduction in emissions by 2035 and a 90% reduction by 2050. These ambitious goals aim to mitigate the escalating threat of climate change. The new rules focus on fossil fuel companies transitioning from petroleum and natural gas to renewable sources like wind, solar, and biofuels.

Given the potency of methane gas, which is a significant contributor to global warming, the rules also target heavy energy users in the state. These users must now meet stricter emissions reduction targets, with compliance checks every two years instead of three.

Nicole Singh, senior climate change policy advisor for DEQ, emphasizes that the new program builds on previous efforts, stating, “We didn’t throw that out the window. We’re using that information to help inform this.”

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Expanding the Scope of Emission Regulations

The new regulations go beyond previous measures by targeting heavy natural gas users for the first time. Companies involved in cement, fertilizer, and gypsum production must now adhere to the new standards. This expansion ensures a broader impact on reducing state emissions.

Oregon’s carbon crediting market sees significant updates as well. Companies can offset emissions by purchasing credits, each valued at $129 per credit. This market, projected to bring in $150 million annually, funds community decarbonization and renewable energy projects.

Credit recipients, mainly nonprofits, can use these funds for projects like:

• Installing solar panels and heat pumps
• Purchasing electric vehicles and chargers
• Weatherizing homes and buildings

Oregon’s nine federally recognized tribes will play a more prominent role in determining grants and receive increased funding under the new rules. The state also allocates 4.5% of the funding for oversight and auditing to ensure the effectiveness of these initiatives.

Greater Flexibility for Companies

To offer flexibility, companies can now offset a higher percentage of their emissions through purchased credits. Initially, they can offset 15% of emissions during the first two years, increasing to 20% thereafter. This adjustment aims to balance regulatory demands with operational realities.

Collaboration between DEQ and the Oregon Public Utilities Commission will ensure that decarbonization costs are not unfairly shifted to consumers. This partnership seeks to stabilize natural gas rates while advancing climate goals.

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These measures reflect a comprehensive approach to addressing climate change, offering both stringent targets and practical means for companies to comply. By investing in renewable energy and community projects, Oregon aims for a sustainable future.

Public input remains crucial as the state finalizes these rules, underscoring the collaborative nature of this environmental endeavor.

The Legal Journey of Oregon’s Climate Efforts

The Climate Protection Program, initially approved in 2021, faced a legal challenge that paused its implementation. In December, the Oregon Court of Appeals ruled that procedural oversights invalidated the program. The lack of required disclosures to companies holding federal industrial air pollution permits was a critical issue.

Rather than appealing to the Oregon Supreme Court, which would have delayed resolution until mid-2025, state regulators opted to restart the process. This decision underscores their commitment to swift and effective climate action.

Oregon Capital Chronicle, part of States Newsroom, emphasizes the state’s resilience in addressing climate challenges. The nonprofit news network highlights the importance of informed public participation in shaping these pivotal environmental policies.

As Oregon moves forward, the revised Climate Protection Program represents a renewed effort to balance environmental stewardship with economic and social considerations. With public commentary and thorough review, the state aims to set a precedent for impactful climate regulation.

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