The Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) is seeking input from the public for the upcoming design of its community grant cycle, with a hefty $67 million ready to be awarded this year. The grants are intended for community-based nonprofit organizations that focus on climate initiatives rooted in advancing racial and social justice. Portlanders have until Feb. 6 to have their voices heard through a survey or email and help shape the significant funding allocation towards energy efficiency, renewable energy, regenerative agriculture, and more.
According to the City of Portland, PCEF Program Manager, Sam Baraso emphasized the unique nature of the program: “With the proposals that this next Community Grants program cycle will fund, we are again showing what it means to work in partnership with the community to make our city more resilient, regenerative, and just,” he stated. The fund, heralded for being a localized effort, will allocate money across five categories, including a general one for broader approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
The current public engagement is not new for PCEF; it's a continuation of a tradition that has been in place since PCEF's first grant cycle in 2020. Through these periods of public comment, PCEF staff have enhanced their processes by welcoming numerous community insights, leading to refined grant awards, as observed by many past contributors. So far, the program has distributed $202 million across various projects, marking a significant city-led effort to reduce carbon emissions and improve resilience against climate change, while aiming for economic opportunities, especially for marginalized communities.
PCEF's reach extends beyond immediate climate action; the fund, generated from a 1% surcharge on large retailers operating in Portland, is expected to pull approximately $200 million annually for climate initiatives. As Angela Previdelli, PCEF’s Community Grants and Capacity Building Program Manager, explained, "By sharing your insights, you help us understand how our requirements and structures impact organizations’ ability to carry out meaningful work and apply for grants successfully.” Echoing this communal ethos, the fund operates under the umbrella of the City of Portland’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, known for spearheading energy efficiency and advocating for climate change action.
The City of Portland's website shares details about PCEF's history and importance. It was established by a 65% vote from Portland residents in November 2018 and represents a milestone as Oregon's first environmental initiative led by communities of color. With every grant cycle's feedback from the public, PCEF has shown its commitment to inclusive and effective climate progress that harmonizes with Portland's social fabric. The energy and focus on public involvement are set to continue shaping the future of Portland's environmental landscape.
