Energy Trust awards $86,306 incentive for Clackamas County courthouse efficiency

Energy Trust of Oregon presented Clackamas County with an $86,306 incentive on Jan. 29 for energy‑efficiency work at the replacement Clackamas County Courthouse.

Nancy Bush, County Operating Officer, introduced Shelly Carlton, senior program manager with the Energy Trust of Oregon. Carlton described Energy Trust as "an independent nonprofit that offers cash incentives, services, and information for people and businesses to save energy and lower their energy costs." She said the courthouse opened last May with energy efficient features including high‑efficiency heating and cooling systems, high‑performance windows and insulation, and LED lighting.

"Just last year, these energy saving features saved the county over $50,000 in utility bills," Carlton said, adding that the features are projected to save the county more than $800,000 over the systems' lifetimes. Facilities Director Jeff Jorgensen and the project team were recognized for incorporating efficiency during design.

Commissioners thanked Energy Trust and county staff for the partnership and posed for a photo with the check. County staff said the incentive supports the county's goal to reduce operating costs and build more sustainable facilities.