Oregon Electricity Information
Oregon’s electricity market offers direct access for business customers, not for most households. Nonresidential customers served by Portland General Electric or Pacific Power can leave basic service and buy supply from a certified Electricity Service Supplier, while the utility still delivers power and maintains the grid. Residential choice is generally unavailable, though the state has explored options like community aggregation and decided not to pursue broader retail changes for now. If a business opts in, it takes on market-based pricing and contract terms, and the Public Utility Commission oversees supplier certification and program rules.
Oregon’s electricity generation is dominated by renewable energy, with hydroelectric power providing the largest share. Wind and solar energy have also expanded, while natural gas plays a supporting role. The state has largely phased out coal, leading to lower emissions and a cleaner energy mix. Electricity prices in Oregon remain close to the national average, though investments in renewables and grid infrastructure influence costs. With strong clean energy policies, the state continues to reduce its carbon footprint while maintaining a reliable power supply.
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Ranks 27th Highest in the U.S.
Average Price: 15.77¢ /kWh
Ranks 15th Cheapest in the U.S.
Average Electric Bill: $108
Ranks 6th Cheapest in the U.S.
Electricity Production By Source
Emissions From Electricity Generation
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Renewable Electricity Generation
60.56% of Total Production
Energy Usage in Oregon
Electricity consumption in Oregon is shaped by its diverse Pacific Northwest climate, which includes wet, mild winters in the west and drier, more extreme temperatures in the east. Heating needs are significant in colder regions, while coastal areas experience lower overall energy demand. The state’s focus on energy efficiency, combined with a high share of hydropower, helps keep per-capita electricity use relatively moderate.
Municipal Utilities in Oregon
While most cities, towns, and villages throughout the state of Oregon offer municipal essential services like providing clean water, sewage treatment and dealing with waste and storm water, some also offer other services like electricity, natural gas, sanitation or recycling. In Oregon, 18 cities offer municipal electricity utility services to their residents.
Largest Electric Companies in Oregon
The rest of Oregon receives electric utility service from one of many primary providers. Here’s a list of some of the larger providers that might be available to your home:
Oregon Natural Gas Information
Oregon leans on natural gas in a way that fits its Pacific Northwest climate and hydro-heavy grid. West of the Cascades winters are cool and damp rather than frigid, so home heating is steady but not extreme, while the drier east sees colder snaps that lift demand. Almost 40% of households use natural gas as their primary heating fuel. Most of the state’s gas actually goes to the power sector, which received about 57% of in-state deliveries in 2025; industry used ~18%, households ~15%, and businesses ~10%. Oregon imports most of its gas and relies on the Mist field for in-state storage, which helps smooth seasonal swings.
Largest Natural Gas Companies in Oregon
Many of the residents of Oregon receive their natural gas utility service from one of the larger companies that service the state.
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Oregon Internet Connectivity
Largest Internet Providers in Oregon
When it comes to high-speed internet, homes in Oregon have plenty of options to stay connected! From bustling cities to quiet rural areas, a variety of providers offer reliable service across the state. Here are some of the biggest names keeping Oregon homes online and in the loop:
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Know Your Rights as a Utility Consumer
Oregon law provides specific protections to ensure fair treatment for utility customers. Being aware of these rights can help you manage difficult situations or disputes with your provider.
- Disconnection Protections: Regulated utilities (such as PGE, Pacific Power, and NW Natural) generally cannot disconnect residential service for non-payment on weekends, holidays, or days when the temperature is forecasted to be below 32°F.
- Medical Certificates: If you or a member of your household has a serious health condition that requires utility service (such as for a ventilator or home dialysis), you may be eligible for a Medical Certificate. This document, signed by a qualified medical professional, can prevent immediate disconnection and allow you to renegotiate a payment plan.
- Dispute Resolution: If you have a complaint about your service or bill that you cannot resolve directly with your utility company, you can contact the Oregon Public Utility Commission (PUC). Their Consumer Services Division offers free assistance and mediation. File a complaint or learn more at the Oregon PUC.
Energy Efficiency Rebates & Incentives
You can lower your monthly bills and increase the comfort of your home by taking advantage of state-sponsored energy efficiency programs.
- Energy Trust of Oregon: Most customers of PGE, Pacific Power, NW Natural, Cascade Natural Gas, and Avista are eligible for cash incentives and rebates.
- Cash Rebates: Available for upgrades like smart thermostats, high-efficiency heating systems (heat pumps), insulation, and new windows.
- Energy Saver Kits: Many customers can request a free kit containing LED bulbs, high-efficiency showerheads, and faucet aerators to start saving immediately.
- Visit Energy Trust of Oregon to view current offers and apply for rebates.
Green Energy Options
Oregonians have several ways to support renewable energy, whether they own their home or rent.
- Oregon Community Solar: This state program allows you to subscribe to a local solar project without installing panels on your own roof. You receive credits on your electric bill for the power your "share" of the project produces. There are specific protections and low-cost subscriptions available for income-qualified households. Find a project at the Oregon Community Solar Program.
- Utility Green Power Programs: Most major electric utilities offer voluntary programs where you can match your energy usage with 100% renewable sources for a small monthly fee.
- Portland General Electric: Green Future Program
- Pacific Power: Blue Sky Renewable Energy
Understanding Your Bill
Oregon utility bills often contain specific line items that can be confusing. Here is a quick breakdown of common fees:
- Public Purpose Charge: This state-mandated fee (typically 1.5% to 3% of your bill) funds public programs including the Energy Trust of Oregon, renewable energy development, and low-income weatherization assistance.
- Franchise Fee: Utility companies pay this fee to your local city or municipality for the right to use public streets and rights-of-way for their infrastructure. This cost is passed directly to the consumer.
- Basic Charge: This is a flat monthly fee covering the cost of metering and billing. You pay this amount regardless of how much gas, water, or electricity you actually use.
Safety and Emergencies
Knowing who to call in an emergency is critical for homeowner safety.
- Call Before You Dig (811): State law requires you to call 811 at least two business days before starting any digging project, such as planting a tree or building a fence. The Oregon Utility Notification Center will coordinate with utilities to mark underground lines for free. Request a locate at Dig Safely Oregon.
- Gas Leaks: If you smell a "rotten egg" odor, hear a hissing sound, or suspect a gas leak, leave the area immediately. Do not use phones, light switches, or anything that could create a spark. Call your provider or 911 from a safe location.
- NW Natural: 800-882-3377
- Avista Utilities: 800-227-9187
- Cascade Natural Gas: 888-522-1130
Utility Costs in Oregon
The average monthly total utility bills in Oregon is $273.16, which is 1.44% lower than the national average.
Assistance for Paying Utility Bills in Oregon
If you are struggling to pay your utility bills, Oregon offers several statewide and local programs designed to keep your power and heat on. Assistance is available through government agencies, non-profits, and direct discounts from utility providers.
Statewide and General Assistance Programs
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Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This federally funded program helps low-income households with heating costs. Grants are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Find your local agency to apply for LIHEAP here.
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Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP): Specific to customers of Portland General Electric (PGE) and Pacific Power, this program provides bill payment assistance to prevent disconnection. You can apply through the same local agencies that handle LIHEAP.
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Oregon Energy Fund: A non-profit that provides funds to partner agencies across the state to help those who may not qualify for federal aid. Click here to find energy assistance by county.
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Pacific Power Low-Income Discount (LID): Pacific Power offers an ongoing monthly bill discount for customers with a gross household income at or below 60% of the state median. Learn more and apply for the LID program.
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NW Natural Bill Discount Program: Income-qualified customers can receive a discount of 15% to 40% on their monthly gas bills. Check eligibility and apply at NW Natural.
Special Programs for Seniors
Many agencies prioritize seniors (age 60+) for energy assistance, ensuring they receive aid before funds run out.
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Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB): The Universal Service Plan offers bill co-payments and weatherization help specifically for low-income seniors and disabled customers.
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Emerald People’s Utility District (EPUD): The Emerald Rate Assistance Program (ERAP) provides a bill credit spread over four months for seniors (60+) and disabled customers.
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City of Ashland: Residents over age 65 with low income may qualify for a 20-30% discount on city utilities.
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City of Salem: Offers a Rate Relief Program for water and garbage bills for qualifying seniors (60+) and disabled residents.
Special Programs for Veterans
Veterans in Oregon have access to specific emergency funds that can be used for utility debts.
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Oregon Veterans’ Emergency Financial Assistance: Administered by the Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA), this grant provides one-time emergency financial assistance to veterans and their immediate families for vital needs, including utilities and temporary housing. Learn more about ODVA Emergency Assistance.
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EWEB Military Assistance: Active duty military personnel deployed overseas and their families may qualify for special bill-payment assistance.
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City of Ashland: The Low-Income and Military ALIEAP program offers short-term discounts on electric bills for qualified military households.
Special Programs for Students
College students often face financial instability. While many can apply for standard low-income assistance (like SNAP or LIHEAP), several Oregon universities have “Basic Needs” centers with specific utility grants.
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University of Oregon (UO): The Basic Needs Program helps students access food and housing resources. Students can submit a request for the Housing Subsidy, which can provide funds to pay utilities and prevent eviction. Visit the UO Basic Needs Program.
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Portland State University (PSU): The Basic Needs Hub connects students to resources like the Student Emergency Fund, which offers limited financial assistance for essential expenses including utilities. PSU also partners with the Oregon Energy Fund for a specific utility bill grant. Access PSU Basic Needs resources here.
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Oregon State University (OSU): The Basic Needs Center (BNC) at Champinefu Lodge offers peer navigation to help students build a financial plan and can assist with rental and utility assistance applications. Connect with the OSU Basic Needs Center.
If you are a student at another institution, contact your financial aid office or student life center to ask about “Emergency Student Aid” or “Basic Needs” grants.
Learn more in the Student Utility Guide
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Utility Providers by City in Oregon
| City Name | Population | Municipal Electricity |
|---|---|---|
| Albany | 66,405 | No |
| Aloha | 52,704 | No |
| Altamont | 19,569 | No |
| Ashland | 21,348 | Yes |
| Astoria | 10,166 | No |
| Aumsville | 4,193 | No |
| Baker City | 9,998 | No |
| Bandon | 3,285 | Yes |
| Banks | 2,080 | No |
| Bay City | 2,334 | No |
| Beavercreek | 4,026 | No |
| Beaverton | 97,466 | No |
| Bend | 109,224 | No |
| Bethany | 29,277 | No |
| Boardman | 3,748 | No |
| Brookings | 6,706 | No |
| Bull Mountain | 9,545 | No |
| Bunker Hill | 2,438 | No |
| Burns | 2,726 | No |
| Canby | 18,078 | Yes |
| Carlton | 2,219 | No |
| Cave Junction | 2,039 | No |
| Cedar Hills | 9,511 | No |
| Cedar Mill | 18,987 | No |
| Central Point | 18,948 | No |
| Clatskanie | 2,177 | Yes |
| Coos Bay | 15,921 | No |
| Coquille | 3,998 | No |
| Cornelius | 12,893 | No |
| Corvallis | 66,090 | No |
| Cottage Grove | 10,569 | No |
| Creswell | 5,625 | No |
| Crooked River Ranch | 4,495 | No |
| Culver | 2,098 | No |
| Dallas | 16,663 | No |
| Damascus | 10,878 | No |
| Dayton | 2,672 | No |
| Depoe Bay | 2,140 | No |
| Deschutes River Woods | 5,859 | No |
| Dundee | 3,237 | No |
| Durham | 2,073 | No |
| Eagle Crest | 3,068 | No |
| Eagle Point | 9,600 | No |
| Enterprise | 2,245 | No |
| Estacada | 4,353 | No |
| Eugene | 273,904 | Yes |
| Fairview | 10,439 | No |
| Florence | 9,353 | No |
| Forest Grove | 25,767 | Yes |
| Four Corners | 16,608 | No |
| Garden Home-Whitford | 7,237 | No |
| Gervais | 2,585 | No |
| Gladstone | 12,017 | No |
| Gold Beach | 2,615 | No |
| Grants Pass | 38,902 | No |
| Green | 8,182 | No |
| Gresham | 114,164 | No |
| Happy Valley | 23,442 | No |
| Harrisburg | 3,645 | No |
| Hayesville | 21,887 | No |
| Heceta Beach | 2,127 | No |
| Hermiston | 19,141 | Yes |
| Hillsboro | 105,909 | No |
| Hood River | 8,210 | No |
| Hubbard | 3,422 | No |
| Independence | 9,850 | No |
| Jacksonville | 2,984 | No |
| Jefferson | 3,329 | No |
| Jennings Lodge | 7,953 | No |
| Junction City | 6,718 | No |
| Juniper Canyon | 2,295 | No |
| Keizer | 39,119 | No |
| King City | 4,992 | No |
| Klamath Falls | 21,710 | No |
| La Grande | 13,212 | No |
| La Pine | 2,390 | No |
| Lafayette | 4,369 | No |
| Lake Oswego | 40,390 | No |
| Lakeview | 2,566 | No |
| Lebanon | 18,150 | No |
| Lincoln Beach | 2,561 | No |
| Lincoln City | 9,655 | No |
| Madras | 7,381 | No |
| Marlene Village | 5,064 | No |
| McMinnville | 34,224 | Yes |
| Medford | 178,457 | No |
| Metzger | 4,282 | No |
| Millersburg | 2,813 | No |
| Milton-Freewater | 7,143 | Yes |
| Milwaukie | 21,108 | No |
| Molalla | 10,060 | No |
| Monmouth | 10,735 | Yes |
| Mount Angel | 3,397 | No |
| Mulino | 2,251 | No |
| Myrtle Creek | 3,476 | No |
| Myrtle Point | 2,691 | No |
| Newberg | 25,108 | No |
| Newport | 10,305 | Yes |
| North Bend | 10,224 | No |
| North Plains | 3,280 | No |
| Nyssa | 3,180 | No |
| Oak Grove | 17,382 | No |
| Oak Hills | 11,715 | No |
| Oakridge | 3,247 | No |
| Oatfield | 12,993 | No |
| Odell | 2,569 | No |
| Ontario | 11,465 | No |
| Oregon City | 37,160 | No |
| Pendleton | 16,861 | No |
| Philomath | 5,353 | No |
| Phoenix | 4,452 | No |
| Portland | 2,036,875 | No |
| Prineville | 10,611 | No |
| Rainier | 2,022 | No |
| Raleigh Hills | 6,726 | No |
| Redmond | 33,160 | No |
| Redwood | 3,207 | No |
| Reedsport | 4,289 | No |
| River Road | 9,526 | No |
| Rockcreek | 9,659 | No |
| Roseburg | 23,551 | No |
| Roseburg North | 4,683 | No |
| Salem | 268,634 | No |
| Sandy | 12,383 | No |
| Santa Clara | 11,680 | No |
| Scappoose | 7,871 | No |
| Seaside | 7,058 | No |
| Shady Cove | 3,072 | No |
| Sheridan | 4,826 | No |
| Sherwood | 20,281 | No |
| Silverton | 10,402 | No |
| Sisters | 2,945 | No |
| Springfield | 62,138 | Yes |
| St. Helens | 13,808 | Yes |
| Stanfield | 2,290 | No |
| Stayton | 8,199 | No |
| Sublimity | 2,940 | No |
| Sutherlin | 8,429 | No |
| Sweet Home | 9,716 | No |
| Talent | 6,256 | No |
| The Dalles | 15,942 | Yes |
| Three Rivers | 3,597 | No |
| Tigard | 54,750 | No |
| Tillamook | 5,183 | Yes |
| Toledo | 3,516 | No |
| Tri-City | 4,009 | No |
| Troutdale | 16,353 | No |
| Tualatin | 27,821 | No |
| Turner | 2,306 | No |
| Umatilla | 7,224 | No |
| Vale | 2,151 | No |
| Veneta | 5,199 | No |
| Vernonia | 2,270 | No |
| Warm Springs | 2,638 | No |
| Warrenton | 6,123 | No |
| West Haven-Sylvan | 8,469 | No |
| West Linn | 27,173 | No |
| West Slope | 6,970 | No |
| White City | 10,151 | No |
| Willamina | 2,511 | No |
| Wilsonville | 25,887 | No |
| Winston | 5,591 | No |
| Wood Village | 4,435 | No |
| Woodburn | 25,877 | No |
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.


















