Environment and Climate Committee Meeting - 3/12/26 - 11:00 AM

The City of Bend, Oregon Environment and Climate Committee met on March 12, 2026, to discuss the ongoing development of an electrification fee policy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions from residential natural gas use. Key procurement-related topics included the upcoming stakeholder roundtable involving utilities and advisory bodies to discuss exemptions and implementation timelines for the fee. The committee reviewed potential exemptions such as renewable natural gas and deed-restricted affordable housing, and debated the administrative feasibility of these exemptions. Staff outlined a proposed implementation timeline targeting January 1, 2028, to allow for legislative developments and clearer utility compliance projections. The committee also discussed the fee's calculation methodology, its impact on new construction, and the use of fee revenues for electrification incentives. No contract awards or vendor selections were reported, but the policy decisions discussed will influence future procurement and funding allocations related to energy efficiency and electrification initiatives in the city.