New tool makes it easier to track incentive application status. July 27, 2026 On July 31, Energy Trust of Oregon launched a new online application status tool to provide residential customers with greater visibility into incentive applications for their energy-saving projects. The resource allows residential customers and trade allies to quickly check an application's progress once it is submitted without needing to contact Energy Trust's customer support team, offering a convenient self-service option to stay informed and updated. "We are hoping that customers get a better understanding of where their incentive application is in the process and when they might expect their incentive payment," said Alanna Hoyman-Browe, digital transformation program manager at Energy Trust. Energy Trust developed this new tool in response to direct feedback from individual customers, trade allies and community-based organizations, who shared that seeking information about the status of an incentive application can be time-consuming and frustrating. By offering a convenient self-service option for customers to check on their application from submission through incentive payment, this tool will help create a more transparent, customer-centered experience. Ultimately, this supports key priorities in Energy Trust's 2025-2030 Strategic Plan by empowering customers with the information they need to make informed decisions and encouraging greater participation in Energy Trust programs. How it works After submitting an incentive application, customers will receive a confirmation email that includes an incentive tracking number and a link to the application status tool. Using this number and their email address, customers will be able to: * View the current status of their application, such as received, in process or under review * View messages from Energy Trust as their applications are processed, including requests for additional information or other project-specific updates The tool will not replace existing methods for communicating about incentive applications, but will instead provide another level of visibility at customers' fingertips. The tool is optimized for desktop and mobile devices, making it easy to check an application's status wherever it's most convenient. Customers will continue to have the option of contacting Energy Trust's customer support team for assistance if needed. The initial launch is focused on residential incentive applications as the first phase of the tool's development. Energy Trust will continue gathering feedback from customers, trade allies and community partners to evaluate how the tool is being used and identify opportunities for future enhancements.

Energy Trust connects with community at Good in the Hood. July 16, 2026 Energy Trust of Oregon was a proud sponsor and participant in this year's Good in the Hood Multicultural Music & Food Festival, one of Portland's longest-running celebrations of community, culture and connection. Held on the last weekend in June in the historic Albina community of Northeast Portland, the two-day festival brings together over 10,000 attendees for a parade, live entertainment, family-friendly activities and a fair with community resources. Energy Trust has sponsored the event for several years, joining organizations from across the region to celebrate diversity, culture and the resilience of Portland's communities. Throughout the weekend, Energy Trust staff connected with festivalgoers at its booth, sharing information about energy-saving programs, cash incentives and resources available to utility customers. "What I've loved most about sponsoring Good in the Hood over the years is that it's all about connection," said Mia Deonate, Energy Trust senior community outreach specialist. "We get to meet people where they are, have real conversations and share resources that can make a difference - whether we're talking with a homeowner, renter or business owner, we're connecting with people all across the board." Energy Trust team members answered questions about ways to make homes more comfortable, lower energy costs and improve energy efficiency, while helping attendees understand how Energy Trust can support their energy goals. Through events like Good in the Hood, Energy Trust is also able to hear directly from utility customers and better understand their needs. Energy Trust's outreach team will continue to partner with local organizations to help communities across Oregon and Southwest Washington learn about and access resources to create affordable, comfortable and energy efficient homes and businesses. Upcoming events in the Portland metro area over the coming months include the India Festival 2026 on August 23, the Jade International Night Market on August 29 and the Multicultural Kids Festival on September 27. To stay in the loop about how Energy Trust is connecting utility customers with energy saving resources, follow Energy Trust on LinkedIn.

Jefferson County tour highlights how manufacturers and farms can cut costs with energy efficiency. July 8, 2026 The Made in Jefferson County Tour included a stop at Poland Organic Dairy. Energy Trust of Oregon sponsored and participated in the Made in Jefferson County Tour on June 18, hosted by Economic Development for Central Oregon (EDCO). The tour brought together business leaders, community members and regional partners to learn more about the businesses helping drive Jefferson County's economy. Stops included Madras-based operations KEITH Manufacturing Co., Central Oregon Seeds, Inc. and Poland Organic Dairy. The businesses featured on the tour reflected the diversity of Jefferson County's growing economy. While the region has deep agricultural roots, it is also home to manufacturers and industrial businesses that are investing in innovation and growth. For Energy Trust, the event was an opportunity to share how energy efficiency can support long-term business success. "Energy Trust works alongside businesses and operations across Oregon to help them cut energy use and lower operating costs," said Nate Merrill, Central Oregon Outreach Manager for Energy Trust. "When businesses invest in energy-efficient equipment and processes, they often see lower utility bills, less maintenance and new opportunities to reinvest those savings back into their operations." Two of the businesses featured on the tour - KEITH Manufacturing and Central Oregon Seeds - have partnered with Energy Trust on energy-saving projects. KEITH Manufacturing has worked with Energy Trust since 2005 on projects including lighting upgrades, and Central Oregon Seeds has partnered with Energy Trust on lighting upgrades, energy assessments and Strategic Energy Management. Energy Trust helps farmers, ranchers and manufacturers of all sizes identify opportunities to reduce energy use and improve efficiency. Through incentives, technical expertise and ongoing support, Energy Trust helps these operations make investments that can lower costs and support long-term growth. "When local businesses reduce operating costs, they can invest more in their employees, facilities and future growth," Merrill said. "Those benefits extend beyond individual businesses and help support economic activity throughout the region. That's why Energy Trust believes energy efficiency and economic development go hand in hand." Are you interested in learning how Energy Trust can support your facility? Get the conversation started by reaching Energy Trust of Oregon, Inc. at all 1.866.202.0576 or by email at [email protected]