The annual Citizen Utility Board (CUB) Conference is an opportunity for energy experts to share knowledge and discuss some of the most important issues confronting the energy system. This year, event organizers included Silivia Tanner, Sr. Energy Policy and Legal Analyst for the Office of Sustainability, on a panel discussing the issue of utility disconnections due to non-payment. The moderator of the panel was Sarah Wochele, Equity Analyst & Advocate, Oregon CUB. Other panelists included: Michelle Scala, Regulatory Strategy Manager - Energy Program, Oregon Public Utility Commission; Christina Zamora, Executive Director, Klamath and Lake Community Action Services; Charlee Thompson, Policy Associate, NW Energy Coalition.
According to the conference panel description, “in 2024, Oregon’s for-profit utilities disconnected about 175,000 people. This population combined would be our state’s fourth-largest city. While compounding factors have gotten us to this point, help is on the way. Through the implementation of the Energy Affordability Act (2021) and a new suite of energy affordability measures, we have a lot of opportunities to change the tide. Oregonians, decision-makers, and advocates have made it clear that energy affordability must continue to be our top priority.”
The panel focused on the challenges, outcomes, and the way forward, including discussion of the Energy Affordability Act and other tools to prevent disconnections. Together, the panelists and moderator have a long history of working to improve the rules and practices that impact the experience of customers at risk of disconnection when they interact with their utility. According to Tanner “disconnection can be discussed in the abstract in energy policy spaces, yet it is a real and harsh experience that impacts health, food security, housing, and more for those who live it, with some households experiencing disproportionate impacts from disconnections.” Multnomah County recognizes the urgency in mitigating disconnections in coalition with other stakeholders through engagement with utilities and regulators, and at the legislature, to develop and support policies that reduce this source of suffering in our community. Multnomah County also provides assistance to low income households through energy bill assistance and weatherization.
John Wasiutynski, Director for the Office of Sustainability, said “I am really proud of the work Silvia does advocating for low income ratepayer programs and protections. When someone can’t pay a utility bill, or has their power shut off, it’s devastating for the family and makes it far more likely that they will need other services from social safety net providers like the County.”
