Are there specific incentives for energy-efficient homes in Oregon?

@yasmin.eichmann  Yes, Oregon offers several incentives and programs to encourage energy-efficient home improvements and construction. These incentives are designed to promote sustainability, reduce energy consumption, and lower utility costs for homeowners. Some of the key incentives for energy-efficient homes in Oregon include:

1. Energy Trust of Oregon: The Energy Trust of Oregon offers various incentives, rebates, and financing options for energy-efficient upgrades and improvements, including insulation, heating and cooling systems, windows, appliances, and renewable energy installations such as solar panels. Homeowners can access cash incentives, instant discounts, and low-interest loans to offset the cost of energy-efficient upgrades.
2. Oregon Residential Energy Tax Credit (RETC): The Oregon RETC program provides tax credits for qualifying energy-efficient home improvements, including insulation, windows, doors, heating and cooling systems, and solar energy systems. Homeowners can claim a portion of the project costs as a tax credit on their state income taxes, helping to offset the upfront expenses of energy-efficient upgrades.
3. Oregon Department of Energy (ODOE) Loans: The ODOE offers low-interest loans to homeowners for energy-efficient upgrades and renewable energy installations. These loans can be used to finance a wide range of improvements, including insulation, HVAC upgrades, energy-efficient windows, and solar energy systems. The loans offer competitive interest rates and flexible repayment terms to make energy-efficient upgrades more accessible to homeowners.
4. Oregon Zero Energy Ready Home (ZERH) Program: The ZERH program encourages the construction of high-performance, energy-efficient homes that produce as much energy as they consume over the course of a year. Homes that meet the program's rigorous energy efficiency and performance standards are eligible for certification and recognition as Zero Energy Ready Homes, which can increase their market value and appeal to homebuyers.
5. Local Utility Incentives: Many utility companies in Oregon offer incentives, rebates, and energy efficiency programs to encourage homeowners to reduce energy consumption and adopt renewable energy technologies. These programs may include cash incentives for energy-efficient appliances, lighting upgrades, weatherization measures, and solar energy installations.

These are just a few examples of the incentives and programs available to homeowners in Oregon to promote energy efficiency and sustainability. Homeowners interested in energy-efficient upgrades or construction should research available incentives, consult with local energy efficiency organizations, and work with qualified contractors to maximize the benefits of these programs.