Rep. Smith Kicks Off Affordable Renewable Energy Act Petition

Calling on Oregonians to officially recognize hydroelectric energy as renewable, Rep. Greg Smith (R – Heppner) kicked off the petition drive for the Affordable Renewable Energy Act as the first signer. House District 57, which he represents in the Legislature, contains several of Oregon’s largest hydroelectric producers and key industries have selected the district because of this low-cost and renewable energy source.

 

“Renewable, low-cost energy from hydroelectric sources has been instrumental in the economic development of Easter Oregon and is a key electricity source for all Oregonians,” Rep. Smith said. “I am honored to be the first Oregonian to sign the petition for the Affordable Renewable Energy Act. It recognizes the fact that hydro power is renewable, sustainable and affordable.”

 

Hydroelectric power is the #1 source of electricity for Oregon, providing over 40 percent of Oregon’s electricity. The Affordable Renewable Energy Act recognizes the renewable nature of hydropower by allowing it to be used to meet state renewable portfolio standards. This would help prevent significant tax increases on energy providers who rely heavily on hydroelectric and in doing so keep electricity costs affordable for Eastern Oregon’s businesses and consumers.

 

“Many industries have selected places like the Port of Morrow and Hermiston specifically because our affordable and renewable hydroelectricity,” Smith said. “For example, Amazon located their server facility at the Port of Morrow because hydro is renewable. It is time for Oregon to recognize it as such.”

 

The Affordable Renewable Energy Act was praised by business leaders from Eastern Oregon as well.

 

“This measure will allow Eastern Oregon to continue to be competitive for businesses like Amazon which provide outstanding economic development opportunities for our region,” said Gary Neal, General Manager of the Port of Morrow. “I applaud Rep. Smith for putting his energy behind this important petition.”

 

As a statutory change, the petition will require roughly 87,000 signatures to make the November 2014 ballot.

 

Rep. Greg Smith is serving his seventh term as a member of the Oregon House of Representatives. As the State Representative for House District 57, Smith represents Umatilla, Morrow, Gilliam, Sherman and a portion of Wasco counties.

 

Audio clips of Rep. Smith’s remarks regarding this issue are attached for your consideration and use.

 

To learn more or to provide feedback to Rep. Smith, please contact him at 541-377-0000.