PGE celebrates 2024 National Drive Electric Week with transportation electrification programs to help customers make the switch

To celebrate this year’s National Drive Electric Week, Portland General Electric is making it easier for customers to take part in the transition to electric vehicles. With programs like the Electric School Bus Fund and Drive Change Fund, and upcoming community electrification events, PGE provides customers with options and information to begin their electrification journey.

“We are dedicated to making transportation electrification accessible and beneficial for all our customers,” said Eva DeCesaro, Senior Product Portfolio Specialist on PGE’s Transportation Electrification team. “By supporting these initiatives, we are not only helping to create a cleaner environment but also empowering underserved communities with the tools and resources they need to participate in the transition to electric transportation. We are excited to see the positive impact these programs will have.”

One of the ways PGE is improving access to electric vehicles is through two grant funding programs for schools and nonprofit organizations: the Electric School Bus Fund and the Drive Change Fund . These grants, which are funded by the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s Clean Fuels Program , have no impact on customer rates.

Since 2020, PGE has partnered with 14 school districts to bring 55electric school buses to Oregon roads. Many districts have incorporated the electric buses into student curriculum, while helping meet transportation needs in underserved communities. Applications for the next round of Electric School Bus Fund grants open on Sept. 23 and close on Nov. 29. Districts are encouraged to visit PGE's website to apply.

In addition to opening applications for the Electric School Bus Fund, PGE announces award recipients for the 2024 Drive Change Fund, which helps community organizations electrify their fleets, install charging infrastructure and provide education to underserved communities.

Among the 2024 Drive Change Fund recipients is Caldera , an arts and environmental nonprofit that aims to inspire and support youth from underserved communities through creativity. Their Drive Change Fund project will help replace aging vehicles with four new electric transit vans along with charging infrastructure, to transport youth to natural areas for immersive education.

Resources aren’t limited to schools or nonprofit organizations. Community members are invited to attend a free Electric Vehicle Ride and Drive event on Sept. 28 and 29 at Portland Community College’s Sylvania campus. Attendees will have the opportunity to experience a variety of EVs from local dealerships, learn about PGE’s charging rebates and incentives and take an e-bike for a spin. Walk ups are welcome, though it is recommended to pre-register for a test drive at PGE’s Ride and Drive Events page.

Visit PGE’s website to learn more about how to participate in transportation electrification.