Grounded: a Podcast by the Oregon Department of Energy

Episode 46: A New Chapter in Oregon's Energy Story Nov 22, 2024

Earlier this month, ODOE was excited to release the 2024 Biennial Energy Report that tells Oregon’s energy story. The report shows how the state’s energy system has evolved over time to include new technologies, address changes in the availability of different generation resources, and to meet state energy goals. Learn more: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2024/11/22/a-new-chapter-in-oregons-energy-story Grounded theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman

Episode 45: Magic School Buses Oct 15, 2024

Class is back in session, and nearly 550,000 students in Oregon make the trip to and from school every school day. On this episode of Grounded, we tag along and venture into the magic world of clean-running and electric school buses. Learn more: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2024/10/10/grounded-podcast-episode-45-magic-school-buses Theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman

Episode 44 - Harvesting Solar: The Science of Agrivoltaics Sep 05, 2024

Grounded host Bryan Hockaday meets OSU Assistant Professor Chad Higgins and takes listeners on a tour of a solar research farm outside of Wilsonville. On the farm, they’re fine tuning the practice of agrivoltaics and experimenting with what crops respond best to integrated solar electricity production. Learn more: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2024/9/4/grounded-podcast-episode-44-harvesting-solar-the-science-of-agrivoltaics Theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman

Episode 43: Road Trip Across Oregon Aug 06, 2024

On Episode 43 of Grounded, host Bryan Hockaday catches up with Sarah Moehrke, ODOE’s Community Navigator. In her role, Sarah is often on the road and meeting with Oregonians all across the state. In just over this past year, Sarah has logged nearly 15,000 miles as she connects cities and counties with resources to help with community-scale sustainable improvement projects. Learn more: 2024/7/31/grounded-podcast-episode-43-road-trip-across-oregon Grounded theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman.

Bonus E43: A Tour of Oregon with Sarah Moehrke Aug 06, 2024

On Episode 43 of Grounded, host Bryan Hockaday catches up with Sarah Moehrke, ODOE’s Community Navigator. In her role, Sarah is often on the road and meeting with Oregonians all across the state. Enjoy a bonus episode, where Sarah takes listeners on a vividly narrated tour, starting on the stunning shores of the Oregon coast, going through the mid-Willamette Valley, and heading across to the spectacular vistas in eastern Oregon. Learn more: 2024/7/31/grounded-podcast-episode-43-road-trip-across-oregon Grounded theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman.

Episode 42: Cool for the Summer Jul 09, 2024

Summers in the Pacific Northwest are spectacular, but it’s starting to feel like Oregon’s summers keep getting hotter. On this episode of Grounded, host Bryan Hockaday learns about ODOE’s Heat Pump Incentive Programs and talks with Oregon’s Climatologist Larry O’Neill. Grounded theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman.

Bonus E42: Conversation with Oregon's Climatologist Larry O'Neill Jul 09, 2024

We also got to speak with Oregon’s official State Climatologist, Larry O’Neill. We had such a great conversation and he shared really interesting insights into Oregon’s climate, how it’s changing, and even how we measure these changes and how that data can be used to inform policies. So, we thought we’d share this extended interview with Larry O'Neill in this special bonus episode. Hope you enjoy! blogs.oregonstate.edu/orcs/oregon-cl…vice/our-team/ Grounded theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman.

Episode 41: Oregon Cherries and Tractor Tech Jun 18, 2024

On this episode of Grounded, join host Bryan as he heads out to the Columbia River Gorge to attend the annual Cherry Pre-Harvest Tour and see an all-electric, autonomous tractor. The event attracts regional cherry and fruit growers, and this year’s demonstration was organized by partners including Oregon State University and Wy’East Resource, Conservation and Development; Forth Mobility; Sustainable Northwest; and Bonneville Environmental Foundation. Grounded theme music by Oregon artist, Jana Cushman.

Episode 40: The Reboot with host Bryan Hockaday Apr 29, 2024

Grounded is back in action! We’re excited to welcome Bryan Hockaday as host, who recently joined the Oregon Department of Energy’s communications team. In this first episode of the Grounded reboot, join Bryan as he begins his expedition across the state to learn all about energy in Oregon. Learn More: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2024/4/29/grounded-podcast-welcome-bryan-hockaday

Episode 39: 2023 Biennial Zero Emission Vehicle Report Nov 28, 2023

On this episode of Grounded, we explore ODOE's second Biennial Zero Emission Report with EV expert, Jessica Reichers. We take the opportunity to learn about report topics, policy and consumer resources, and some interesting differences between the 2023 and 2021 EV landscape. Find links and resources mentioned in the interview here: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2023/11/28/grounded-podcast-2023-biennial-zero-emission-vehicle-report https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/Pages/IIJA.aspx Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 38: Recent Federal Investments in Energy and Climate Aug 29, 2023

On this episode, Jen Senner joins the podcast to help us understand federal funding that has been allocated for energy and climate programs here in Oregon. Jen is a Federal Grants Officer here at ODOE and does a wonderful job at explaining the background of this funding and how ODOE is working hard to get it in the hands of Oregonians. Find links and resources mentioned in the interview here: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2023/8/29/grounded-podcast-recent-federal-investments-in-energy-and-climate https://www.oregon.gov/energy/energy-oregon/Pages/IIJA.aspx Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 37: 2023 Oregon Global Warming Commission Reports Jun 26, 2023

On this timely Grounded episode, we’re joined by the Oregon Global Warming Commission’s Chair, Cathy Macdonald, and ODOE’s Senior Climate Policy Analyst, Zach Baker. We dive into three important reports the Commission published earlier this year: an Oregon Climate Action Roadmap to 2030, a companion TIGHGER Project Report, and the Commission’s usual biennial 2023 Report to the Legislature. The Commission typically issues a report to the Legislature every two years that includes an update on progress toward achieving Oregon’s greenhouse gas reduction goals and recommendations for making progress. This year, the Commission also provided a new Oregon Climate Action Roadmap to 2030. The Roadmap includes extensive recommendations to inform state climate action, which were developed using an analysis of data and pathways as part of the Transformational Integrated Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Project (AKA TIGHGER). Based on the best available science, the reports considered what it would take to accelerate achievement of Oregon’s existing 2035 goal to instead reach it by 2030. This is a fascinating conversation with two of Oregon’s hardest working climate specialists — let’s listen! Find links and resources mentioned in the interview here: https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2023/6/26/grounded-podcast-2023-oregon-global-warming-commision-reports Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 36: Congressman Peter Defazio Tells the NW Power Act Story Dec 01, 2022

Congressman Peter DeFazio shares how the Northwest Power Act was created and some of the disastrous events of that surrounded that event. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 35: Oregon Energy Timeline Conversations: Energy Trust of Oregon with Margie Harris Oct 18, 2022

On the third episode of a special Grounded series called Oregon Energy Timeline Conversations, we sit down with the Energy Trust of Oregon's founding executive director, Margie Harris. Learn about the early days of ETO and the passionate energy work lead by Margie in this intimate and candid interview. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 34: Oregon Energy Timeline Conversations: Nuclear Energy in Oregon with Tom Sicilia Sep 28, 2022

On the second episode of a special Grounded series called Oregon Energy Timeline Conversations, we meet with ODOE’s Hanford Hydrogeologist, Tom Sicilia. Tom will share the state of nuclear energy in Oregon and a little about it’s past and potential future! Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2022/9/28/grounded-podcast-oregon-energy-timeline-conversations-nuclear-energy-in-oregon-with-tom-sicilia for fun media and resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 33: Oregon Energy Timeline Conversations: Mr. Sun May 27, 2022

On this special Grounded series called Oregon Energy Timeline Conversations, we meet with Mr. Sun- John Patterson. John has earned the name "Mr. Sun" as a solar pioneer whose company installed more than 3,000 solar systems, and who helped get legislation passed to make alternative energy more affordable. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2022/5/27/grounded-podcast-oregon-energy-timeline-conversations-mr-sun for fun media and resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 32: Oregon's Home Energy Score Program Apr 28, 2022

On this episode of Grounded we talk with Oregon Home Energy Score experts Roger Kainu, Peter Brandom, and Dacia Bakkum. For homeowners, buyers, sellers, assessors, and real-estate agents- this episode is a must! Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2022/4/27/grounded-podcast-oregons-home-energy-score-program for fun photos and topic resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 31: The 2021 BiZEV & EV Extravaganza Nov 13, 2021

On this episode of Grounded we sit down with Jessica Reichers, ODOE's Energy Technology & Policy Manager and EV expert. We discuss the inaugural Biennial Zero Emission Report and how to make it work for you! Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2021/11/12/grounded-podcast-2021-bizev-amp-ev-extravaganza for fun photos and topic resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 30: Pump Up the Hydro! Sep 28, 2021

On this episode of Grounded we dive into the hot topic of energy storage, specifically- pumped-storage hydropower. Rebecca Smith from ODEO joins us as well as Erik Steimle from Rye Development for this fascinating and timely discussion! Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2021/9/28/grounded-podcast-pump-up-the-hydro for fun photos and topic resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 29: New Day School + Green Hammer = Oregon's First Net-Zero Preschool Jul 14, 2021

On this episode of Grounded, we learn about Oregon's first net-zero preschool with New Day School teacher, Didi Jayagitta and Green Hammer team members, Laura Squillace and Alex Boetzel. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2021/7/14/grounded-podcast-new-day-school-green-hammer-oregons-first-net-zero-preschool?rq=alex%20boetzel for fun photos and topic resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 28: Hello Arcimoto Jun 11, 2021

On this episode of Grounded we learn about Arcimoto's electric three-wheel vehicles with founder and CEO, Mark Frohnmayer. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2021/6/11/grounded-podcast-hello-arcimoto?rq=arcimoto for fun photos and topic resources. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 27: Back In Time With Janine Benner Apr 24, 2021

On this interactive episode of Grounded, we sit down with ODOE’s Director, Janine Benner, and walk through the Oregon Energy History Timeline section of the 2020 Biennial Energy Report. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2021/4/23/grounded-podcast-back-in-time-with-janine-benner for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 26: Biomass Special Mar 18, 2021

On this special episode of Grounded, we meet up with ODOE’s Senior Energy Policy Analyst, John Cornwell, who takes us through the fundamentals of the exciting renewable energy resource that is biomass. Then we’ll dig deeper into to the electricity potential for Oregon with Oregon Torrefaction’s CTO, Dr. Wayne Lei. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/blog/2021/3/17/grounded-podcast-biomass-special for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 25: The Renewable Energy Workforce Starts Here Dec 05, 2020

On this episode of Grounded we meet with Charles Sekafetz, the Program Chair for Chemeketa Community College's Electronics Program, and learn about the Renewable Energy Management path. As the renewable energy industry continues to grow, so do these specialized jobs. We learn from Charles what the program offers and how this new wave of energy workers are preparing for the future. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov/ for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 24: Clean Fuels Program: 25% by 2035 Or Bust Oct 27, 2020

On this episode of Grounded we meet DEQ's Clean Fuels Program Manager, Cory Ann Wind, and learn about the program's work towards decreasing the amount of pollution allowed from transportation fuels in Oregon. In fact, their goal is 25% by 2035! Cory Ann shares with us some of the program's growing pains, how their clean fuel incentives work, and a few unexpected successes. The program also just launched a new website which can be found here: https://www.oregon.gov/deq/ghgp/cfp/Pages/default.aspx Visit energyinfo.oregon.gov for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 23: Hanford to Home: Ken Niles Retirement Aug 31, 2020

Grounded is back this month with a new episode so we can bid a fond farewell to Oregon Department of Energy's own Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Ken Niles. After 31 years with the agency, Ken is retiring and moving on to new adventures! Join us as we talk to Ken about his time with ODOE and his thoughts on what is to come for Oregon and the Hanford cleanup. Learn more and see photos: www.energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 22: Excelsior! TriMet Rolls Electric Jul 22, 2019

We’re in Portland for our latest episode of Grounded, talking with TriMet, the metro area’s public transit agency. TriMet has been helping Oregonians on the move for 50 years – and they’re on the leading edge of sustainability in transportation. Public Information Officer Tia York tells us all about the agency’s latest electric bus pilot, mini wind turbines, and more. See photos and get helpful links at https://energyinfo.oregon.gov. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 21: Portland Poop To Power Apr 02, 2019

Everybody poops. On our latest episode of Grounded, we’re joined by Paul Suto, Engineering Manager with the City of Portland’s Bureau of Environmental Services. BES is working on its “Poop to Power” project, which will convert methane from wastewater treatment processes into useable, renewable energy. See photos and get helpful links at https://energyinfo.oregon.gov. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 20: One Plug Two Plug Red Plug Blue Plug Mar 04, 2019

Today on Grounded, we’re talking to Matt Teske, founder and CEO of Chargeway, an Oregon-based company focused on making it easy to charge your electric vehicle. Chargeway’s innovative platform takes the guesswork out of how and where you charge your electric vehicle, using color-coded plug types and simple numbers for charging speed. Visit energyinfo.oregon.gov for helpful links. Download Chargeway’s free app at www.chargeway.net. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 19: Ashland Captures The Sun Jan 03, 2019

On our latest episode of Grounded, we’re talking solar energy and virtual net metering in Ashland, Oregon. Stu Green, the City of Ashland’s Climate and Energy Analyst, talks about the city’s bold strategy for expanding access to renewable solar electricity to more Oregonians. Ashland is committed to fighting climate change, and was an early adopter of solar policies in the 1980s – they are walking the talk to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve community resilience. Visit energyinfo.oregon.gov for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 18: Rogue Valley's Circle Of Waste Life Nov 19, 2018

For our latest episode of Grounded, we are in Southern Oregon at Rogue Disposal and Recycling. This episode was a fun one to record on site at Rogue’s White City transfer station – so don’t be surprised if you hear a collection truck or two traveling by! It might seem unusual to be talking garbage and landfills on an energy podcast, so get ready to geek out about some of the amazing things this company is working on to improve its services, harness energy, and protect its environment. Visit energyinfo.oregon.gov for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 17: Gresham Powers Through The FOG Aug 23, 2018

On our latest episode of Grounded, Alan Johnston, Senior Engineer for the City of Gresham Wastewater Treatment Plant, is with us to talk about the plant’s operations (everybody poops!), and how they’ve implemented energy projects onsite that end up producing more electricity than the plant can even use. Gresham has also become the first certified facility for Renewable Energy Certificates for thermal energy. ODOE REC expert Rebecca Smith joins the episode later to talk about what that means. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at https://www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 16: A Community Energy Plan For Cully Jun 14, 2018

We’re in Northeast Portland this week, talking to Carolina Iraheta Gonzalez, Verde’s Community Energy Advocate. Verde is part of the Living Cully collaborative, an effort to boost sustainability as an anti-poverty strategy in the Cully neighborhood. Living Cully released its Community Energy Plan earlier this year – Carolina tells us about in this week’s episode. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov for helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 15: Clean Fuels Clean Cities Apr 11, 2018

We are in Lebanon, Oregon this week, interviewing Brian Trice, Executive Director for the Columbia Willamette Clean Cities Coalition, a nonprofit focused on boosting alternative fuels in our state. Brian dives in to the Coalition’s work in Oregon, how the Advanced Transportation Technology Center at Linn-Benton Community College plays a role in alternative fuels, and his upcoming Green Transportation Summit & Expo. Not to mention: an epic race battle between Ford F-150 and a Nissan Leaf. Visit https://energyinfo.oregon.gov for photos and helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 14: NuScale's New Scale For Nuclear Mar 14, 2018

Grounded is back with a new season – and we are jumping right in with the fascinating, innovative work NuScale Power is doing in Corvallis, Oregon. NuScale was borne from research funded by the U.S. Department of Energy through Idaho National Environment & Engineering Laboratory, with support from Oregon State University. Today, the company is nearing certification from the Nuclear Regulatory Commission for its small modular nuclear reactor technology. Dr. Jose Reyes, NuScale co-founder and Chief Technology Officer, joins us for today’s episode to talk about NuScale’s work and what it means for worldwide energy – and what it could mean for Oregon. Visit http://energyinfo.oregon.gov for helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 13: Birth of an Oregon Energy Facility Dec 04, 2017

When you flip on your light switch at home, do you ever think about where that electricity came from? Energy facilities like wind farms and power plants are spread out among our communities, producing energy to keep our state running. The birth of an energy facility – and its lifespan – is dependent on a governor-appointed body by called the Energy Facility Siting Council. Their complex work is supported by staff at the Oregon Department of Energy. On this latest episode, ODOE Siting Division Administrator Todd Cornett gives us an energy facility siting 101 lesson. Visit http://energyinfo.oregon.gov for helpful links. Learn more about our work at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: “If” by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

Episode 12: Coyote Trails: Powered By The Sun Nov 07, 2017

For 18 years, Coyote Trails has been helping Oregon families – and beyond – reconnect with nature. In 2015, Coyote Trails became powered by the sun, thanks to a large solar pavilion installation at the School of Nature in Medford, Oregon. On this episode of Grounded, Coyote Trails Nature Center Director Molly Kreuzman and True South Solar Owner/Sales Manager Shawn Schreiner tell us about Coyote Trails’ solar pavilion, and how it has helped the nonprofit achieve “net zero” electricity while offering important educational opportunities to Coyote Trails students. Learn more and see photos of Coyote Trails Nature Center: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 11: Fueling Oregon in a Post-Cascadia World Oct 09, 2017

The Cascadia Subduction Zone runs 700 miles along the Pacific Northwest coast – from northern California up to Vancouver Island. The Juan de Fuca plate is shoved up against the North American tectonic plate – eventually, the plates will give way, and North America will spring back with an earthquake anywhere from an 8.0 on the Richter Scale to higher than a 9… it’s known as a megathrust earthquake. On this week’s podcast, Oregon Department of Energy Emergency Preparedness Manager Deanna Henry talks to us about Oregon’s Fuel Action Plan – and the steps we have in place to get much-needed fuel into the state for emergency responders and other essential services in a post-Cascadia Subduction Zone world. Learn more about the Fuel Action Plan: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 10: Hanford's Dream Of 2036 Sep 19, 2017

On this week’s podcast, we continue our multi-part series on the Hanford Nuclear Site near Richland, Washington. Oregon Department of Energy Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety, Ken Niles, is back to talk to us about Hanford’s biggest cleanup challenge: millions of gallons of radioactive and chemically hazardous waste stored in underground tanks at Hanford. Tune in to hear Ken talk tank waste, vitrification (mixing waste with glass-making materials), and the new dream of Hanford: to start the vitrification by 2036. Learn more and see photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 9: The Great Solar Panel Eclipse Aug 11, 2017

On August 21, a total solar eclipse will begin its journey across the United States right here in Oregon. From Depoe Bay to Ontario, sun watchers will witness up to two minutes of totality – where the moon will completely cover the sun. On this week’s Grounded podcast, Oregon Department of Energy Analyst Rob DelMar talks about how the eclipse will affect solar in Oregon and beyond. Oregon Department of Energy staff will be on hand in the state’s Emergency Coordination Center on August 21, ready to respond as we welcome up to 1 million visitors to the state. Follow state updates on Twitter and Facebook with the hashtag #OREclipse. Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 8: Hanford's Dream Of The 90s Jul 19, 2017

On this week’s podcast, we continue our multi-part series on the Hanford Nuclear Site near Richland, Washington. Oregon Department of Energy Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety, Ken Niles, is back to talk to us about the early years of the Hanford cleanup. When Hanford shifted to cleanup in the early 1990s, the dream was to complete the project in just 30 years. Ken shares why that dream won’t become a reality – for decades to come. Learn more and see photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 7: Charge Up & Go Forth Jul 03, 2017

Rock down to Electric Avenue. On this week’s podcast, we talk to Forth Executive Director Jeff Allen. Forth, formerly known as Drive Oregon, is helping Oregonians find alternative, low- or zero-emission transportation options. In May, Forth opened its Electric Showcase – the first of its kind in the nation. At the Showcase, people can learn more about electric vehicles, charging options, and even take a no-pressure, brand-neutral electric car test drive! Learn more and see photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 6: Rip City, Green City Jun 20, 2017

This week, Grounded is with the Portland Trail Blazers, talking about the organization’s ongoing commitment to saving energy and going green. Trail Blazers Vice President of Social Responsibility Christa Stout and Assistant General Manager of Facility Operations Scott Sisson talk to us about their 2025 goals, how they’ve reduced energy in half over the last decade, and how they’re teaming up with Trail Blazer players, fans, and partners to focus on sustainability and combating climate change. Learn more and see photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 5: Tree-Powered Planes May 24, 2017

Just southeast of Jefferson, Oregon, 85 acres of hybrid poplar trees have a special mission: demonstrate how poplars can be quickly and economically grown, harvested, and converted into renewable biofuels. In this week’s podcast, Greenwood Resources’ Chief Science Officer, Brian Stanton, talks to us about the Advanced Hardwood Biofuels, a consortium working to demonstrate how trees can power airplanes! Learn more and see photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

BONUS: Nuclear Shenanigans May 16, 2017

Radioactive jam, anyone? Check out this bonus material from Episode 4: Hanford's Burping Tank. Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety Ken Niles talks about some shenanigans at Hanford and the larger Manhattan Project. Be sure to listen to our previous podcast episodes about Hanford production and the transition to cleanup. See photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

BONUS: This Is Not A Drill May 12, 2017

After recording "Hanford's Burping Tank," an episode about the extent of the waste cleanup at the Hanford Nuclear Site, the area experienced a real emergency when part of a tunnel storing contaminated waste partially collapsed. Oregon activated its Agency Operations Center, and went to work. Our Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety, Ken Niles, shares some info about the incident and Oregon's response. Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 4: Hanford's Burping Tank May 11, 2017

If you haven't already, please listen to our first Hanford episode, "The Atomic Man." This week, Ken Niles, the Oregon Department of Energy's Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety, continues his Hanford history lesson, moving from the production days of Hanford over to the transition to cleanup. Ken describes the overwhelming problem at Hanford, and the many challenges we face. This multi-part series will continue with a third episode focused on the progress we've made so far. Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, www.freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 3: Oregon Scores! Apr 17, 2017

A Home Energy Score can help homeowners and homebuyers better understand how a home uses energy – and what steps they can take to improve energy efficiency. Oregon is on the leading edge of Home Energy Scores in the United States. A voluntary state-wide program and a mandatory Portland program are helping set the standard for a more energy-efficient housing market. Oregon Department of Energy Analyst Roger Kainu is joined by Andria Jacob and Kyle Diesner with the City of Portland Bureau of Planning & Sustainability to talk home energy scoring in Oregon. Learn more about Home Energy Scoring: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

BONUS: The Nuclear Complex Mar 31, 2017

Check out this bonus material from Episode 2: The Atomic Man. In this short recording, Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety Ken Niles discusses the larger nuclear complex in America in the late 1980s. Be sure to listen to The Atomic Man for more information about Hanford. See photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 2: The Atomic Man Mar 28, 2017

For more than 40 years, the federal government produced plutonium for America's nuclear weapons program at the Hanford Nuclear Site in southeast Washington. The now-decommissioned site is home to immense amounts of radioactive waste - and Oregon has a huge stake in ensuring the safe and timely cleanup. Hanford sits just 35 miles from Oregon's border along the Columbia River. In what will be a multi-part series, Ken Niles, the Oregon Department of Energy's Assistant Director for Nuclear Safety, shares a brief history of what went on at Hanford in the early 1940s until the late 1980s. See photos: energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/

Episode 1: Ice-pocalypse Now! Mar 14, 2017

In December 2016, Eugene, Oregon was hit with a major ice storm - thousands of residents lost power for several days. The Eugene Water & Electric Board (EWEB), a public electric and water utility, went into full emergency response mode in the aftermath of the storm. EWEB Communications Specialist Jen Connors shares her experience and lessons learned from the storm. See photos: http://energyinfo.oregon.gov Learn more about us: www.oregon.gov/energy Music: "If" by Broke For Free, freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_Fo…Free/Layers/If

Episode 0: Grounded Preview Mar 08, 2017

Coming soon: Grounded, a new podcast by the Oregon Department of Energy. Here on Grounded, we’ll be talking energy in the Beaver State – from renewable energy and the history of nuclear power… to utilities, businesses, nonprofits, schools, and Oregon families going green and making a difference. Learn more about us at www.oregon.gov/energy. Music: "If" by Broke for Free. http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Broke_For_Free/Layers/If

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