How local businesses are powering up with good energy

Good energy is contagious — and Oregon businesses are leading the charge. From salons to vineyards to local delis, these inspiring businesses are proving that clean energy and long-term savings go hand in hand. Whether it’s upgrading lighting, optimizing HVAC systems or generating renewable power onsite, these leaders show that no shift is too small to spark a lasting impact.

Here’s how three local businesses are reducing energy use, cutting costs and creating more resilient operations with help from PGE.

A brighter path for Natural Hair and Extensions

When Tisha Stigler’s mother began losing her hair during cancer treatment, Tisha started experimenting with natural oils to help her feel like herself again. That passion eventually led to Aspired Oil and the launch of Natural Hair and Extensions, a salon in Portland’s Lloyd District.

After receiving a mailer from PGE, Tisha connected with one of our Energy Experts to explore energy-saving options for her space. Together, they upgraded the salon’s lighting, improving visibility and comfort for clients and saving around $420 annually on electric bills. For Tisha, saving energy isn’t just about cutting costs — it’s about creating a welcoming, sustainable space where her community can feel seen and supported.

Learn more about Natural Hair and Extensions.

Nick D. at Elephants’ NW 22nd Avenue location.

Energy efficiency meets everyday operations at Elephants Delicatessen

Since 1979, Elephants Delicatessen has been a Portland favorite, known for its delicious food and commitment to sustainability. As a certified B Corporation, Elephants is serious about reducing their environmental footprint and PGE has been proud to support their journey.

To reduce energy waste and improve building performance, Elephants has taken steps like:

• Retrofitting lights with LEDs

• Downsizing walk-in refrigeration

• Installing smart thermostats

By joining PGE’s Energy Partner Smart Thermostat program, Elephants is also optimizing their HVAC use across eight retail locations, plus a busy catering and events division. The result? Better control, lower energy costs and a big impact — all with the simplicity of smart automation.

Learn more about Elephants Delicatessen.

David Markel, Research and Development Manager at Willamette Valley Vineyards in Dayton, Oregon.

Raising a glass to sustainability with Willamette Valley Vineyards

Founder Jim Bernau built Willamette Valley Vineyards with a simple belief: Wine grown with care for the environment and community just tastes better. Today, that philosophy continues to guide the vineyard’s growth across Oregon, Washington and California.

With help from PGE’s Energy Partner On Demand program, Willamette Valley Vineyards has added solar tiles, battery storage and onsite generation to power critical operations like refrigeration and data systems — especially during outages. At their Domaine Willamette Gift Shop, those upgrades allowed them to generate 90% of their own power in 2023, saving over $2,600.

Their commitment has earned them recognition as a leader in clean, resilient business practices and helped them stay true to their roots in sustainability.

Learn more about Willamette Valley Vineyards.

Ready to be a Good Energy Business?

These are just a few of the many businesses across our region putting people, planet and purpose at the heart of their operations. And whether you’re just getting started or already making strides, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Explore energy-saving programs, connect with an expert and find tools that fit your business — because doing good feels even better when we do it together.