Oregon Department of Energy Announces $2 Million in Available Grants for Energy Workforce Training
Media Contact: Jennifer Kalez
Program Contact: eetraining@energy.oregon.gov
SALEM – The Oregon Department of Energy has launched a new $2 million grant program to support training for Oregon’s energy workforce. Grant funding will support professional training programs for heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; home energy auditing and modeling; contractor business development; and home energy efficiency upgrades.
ODOE expects to award grants between $150,000 and $400,000 to individual organizations through a competitive grant review process. Awards will be based on the number of qualified applicants and program needs. Eligible organizations include community-based organizations, labor organizations, apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs, training centers, community college training facilities, and other culturally and locally connected organizations. At least $800,000 in program funds will be awarded for projects that demonstration direct benefits to disadvantaged communities for clean workforce development.
The program was developed following the passage of HB 3409 by the Oregon Legislature in 2023; the bill recognized the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by accelerating the installation of heat pumps and other energy efficient appliances in Oregon homes. The bill established the $2 million Energy Efficiency Technologies Information and Training Fund at ODOE, with a focus on reducing barriers to home energy efficiency and resilience improvements. Technical assistance, education, and training support will build capacity among developers, builders, community-based organizations, and others to bolster Oregon’s available workforce.
“The Oregon Department of Energy is committed to supporting our state’s clean energy workforce,” said ODOE Director Janine Benner. “This program will expand our communities’ available training opportunities, support family-wage jobs, and help Oregonians improve energy efficiency at home.”
ODOE is now accepting applications from eligible applicants through January 17, 2025. Interested businesses and organizations can find more information, including application materials and a full Opportunity Announcement, on ODOE’s website.