Democrats Lead House to Broad Support for 'Renew Oregon' Biofuels Plan

The Renew Oregon Plan now moves to the Oregon Senate for approval.

Photo: Tim King

(SALEM) - A biofuels legislation package championed by House Democrats was approved in the Oregon House last week with broad bi-partisan support.

The House Democrats' "Renew Oregon Plan" aims to jumpstart the biofuels industry in Oregon, create new agricultural and manufacturing jobs, decrease Oregon’s dependence on imported fuel and combat global warming.

“After working on a biofuels bill last session that unfortunately failed, I am very excited by today’s action,” said State Representative Jackie Dingfelder (D-Portland), Chair of the House Committee on Energy and the Environment.

“This is our opportunity to correct last session’s shortcomings a move all of Oregon toward a better environmental and economic future. The Renew Oregon plan is a win/win—bridging the urban/rural gap by creating jobs and economic benefits for both rural and urban Oregonians while strengthening Oregon’s commitment to the environment.”

The Renew Oregon Plan -- House Bills 2210, 2211, 2212 -- would:

Create and expand tax incentives for producers of ethanol and biofuels, producers and collectors of biomass used to produce biofuels and for consumers of biofuels.

Expand the incentives allowed for businesses and manufacturers who use renewable energy resources or equipment and provides new incentives to home builders who include energy saving measures in the construction of new homes.

Provide residential consumers with additional tax credits for the use of multiple energy efficient appliances, fuel cells and wind generation.

"This vote puts our state one step closer to becoming a national leader on both the economic and environmental benefits of alternative fuel sources," said Representative Ben Cannon (D-Portland), Energy and the Environment Committee Vice-Chair.

“I’m proud that the plan approved today is one that reflects a collective consensus among members of Oregon's agricultural and business community, advocates for working families and experts on energy and economic development.”

The Renew Oregon Plan now moves to the Oregon Senate for approval.