SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Gov. John Kitzhaber’s plan to put people to work by retrofitting schools with energy efficient technology is moving through the Oregon Legislature and could get a vote in the state House as soon as this week.
The measure is aimed at helping school districts afford the high upfront cost of energy efficient technology. Proponents hope schools could improve the efficiency of aging buildings and save money on energy bills.
The legislative initiative would offer low-interest loans from the state that would be paid back with energy savings.
The Legislature’s budget committee approved the concept last week and set the stage for votes in the House and Senate.
