Oregon utility Portland General Electric Co. (PGE) is embracing a move by the state that effectively bans any new or repowered fossil fuel electric generation plants, including those powered by natural gas. 

During a recent 2Q2021 earnings conference call, CEO Maria Pope said the energy transition to electrification and increased power demand fits nicely with the legislative push, which she called “the most significant clean energy standard in the country.” 

The legislation signed by Gov. Kate Brown last month sets 2040 as the target for achieving 100% carbon-free electricity sold in the state. Currently, at least 17 other states and the District of Columbia have adopted similar goals, according to the Clean Energy States Alliance. 

Under Oregon House Bill (HB) 2021,...