In today’s news, Pacific Power acquires renewable energy, Portland considers a fossil fuel ban and the Grand Ronde Tribe intends to appeal the La Center casino.
1. Pacific Power makes renewable energy strides
Pacific Power is on its way to compliance with the new standards laid out in the Clean Electricity and Coal Transition Act. The energy provider acquired more than 48 megawatts of solar power from four new installations, which the Portland Business Journal reports will be complete by the end of the year. These purchases push Pacific Power into compliance through 2028.
2. Portland to discuss a fossil fuel ban
Portland is considering a ban on bulk fossil fuel terminals. The proposal cites the Mosier oil train derailment as a reason to support the change. The city council will discuss the ban today. If approved, the Portland Business Journal reports no new fossil fuel terminals could be built, and expansions would be limited for any existing terminals.
3. The University of Oregon is also divesting from fossil fuels
The University of Oregon Foundation is shying away from fossil fuels. The Register Guard reports the foundation intends to end its investment in “carbon-based fuel sources.” If that decision is made, UO will be the second research university to divest from fossil fuel investments.
4. Grand Ronde Tribe to appeal Cowlitz Tribe casino, again
The Grand Ronde Tribe says it will file a Supreme Court appeal in attempt to stop a new casino in La Center, Wash. The tribe lost an appeal in the lower courts earlier this year. The Statesman Journal reports the appeal won’t be filed until the fall. The Grand Ronde says if the Washington casino opens, they will lose 41% of their revenue.
5. Portland autoshop sues Better Business Bureaus
Leif’s Auto Collision Centers has filed a suit against the Better Business Bureaus. The Oregonian reports the suit alleges the BBB gave Lief’s an ‘F’ rating because the autoshop refused to pay bureau dues. Lief’s is seeking $5 million for defamation and interfering with business.
6. Eugene hotels in legal battle
There’s a land use battle brewing in Eugene. Portland developer Canterbury Hotel Group is planning a four-story TownePlace Suites in Eugene next to the Valley River Inn. The Register Guard reports the proposed hotel has sparked a legal duel between Canterbury and Valley River lawyers.
7. On trend: A modern, minimalist Portland office space
I recently toured K&L Gates’ Portland office, which takes cues from European design. Check out the photos here.
