Oct. 07, 2008

Portland, Ore. — Small and medium businesses are the backbone of the Oregon economy – in Portland alone, they make up 95 percent of all companies. Collectively, these businesses can have a big impact. That’s why Portland General Electric, with support from Energy Trust of Oregon, Inc., is encouraging Oregon businesses and nonprofits to pledge their commitment to save more energy with their new “Save more, matter more^TM” campaign. The campaign provides a way for businesses to share how they plan to make a difference, while also helping their bottom line.

“We’re inviting the business community to be part of something exciting — to lead the way in reducing our impact on the environment and help power Oregon’s future by saving energy,” said Bill Nicholson, PGE vice president, customers and economic development. “This is a chance for companies to make a statement to their customers, employees and other businesses, while also finding ways to manage their own energy costs.”

From now through December 31, companies can visit our Save Energy section and make a public commitment to use energy more efficiently over the next year. Once a pledge has been made, it is uploaded online so others can see the list of participating companies and learn how each plans to make a change. The site also offers case studies and energy-savings ideas to help businesses find ways to save on energy use and energy costs.

“Whether you’ve been meaning to install more energy-efficient light bulbs, train your employees to be more conscious about turning off lights and computers at night, or take an overall look at your business’ energy use, it’s easy to find a way to make an impact over the next year,” said Roch Naleway, product manager, PGE. “Even small steps matter.”

As part of the campaign, companies can also register to win one of five $3,000 energy-efficient lighting retrofits from PGE and Energy Trust.

Cash incentives are also available to businesses from Energy Trust for energy efficiency improvements. Visit the Energy Trust Web site to learn more. Energy Trust is a nonprofit organization dedicated to changing how Oregonians use energy by promoting energy efficiency and clean renewable energy.