WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

HB 3313

Relating to the eligibility to use electricity generated from waste for renewable energy certificates.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Ed Diehl and 1 co-sponsor

HB 3313 allows waste-to-energy facilities to earn renewable energy certificates, expanding clean energy incentives to waste-derived electricity in Oregon.

In committee upon adjournment.
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · HB 3313

Legislative bill overview

HB 3313 expands eligibility for renewable energy certificates (RECs) to include electricity generated from waste materials. Currently, Oregon's renewable energy standards typically exclude or limit waste-derived electricity. This bill would allow facilities converting waste into energy to qualify for the same certificate incentives as traditional renewable sources like solar and wind.

Why is this important

Renewable energy certificates are financial instruments that create market incentives for clean energy production. Expanding eligibility could increase investment in waste-to-energy technology, potentially diverting waste from landfills while generating power. However, this directly affects how Oregon allocates renewable energy credits and could reshape competition in the renewable energy market.

Potential points of contention

  • Environmental classification debate: Whether waste-to-energy truly qualifies as "renewable" compared to wind/solar, given emissions and environmental concerns about combustion-based power
  • Market distortion concerns: Expanding REC eligibility could redirect subsidies and investment away from zero-emission renewables toward waste facilities
  • Definition ambiguity: The bill's language on what types of "waste" qualify (municipal solid waste, industrial waste, agricultural waste) remains unclear and could be interpreted broadly or narrowly

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.