Oregon's Solar Sprint: Kotek vs. Transmission Snail Race
Oregon Governor Tina Kotek bravely ordered state agencies to Fast-Track™ solar and wind projects by July 4, 2026, in a desperate attempt to nab federal tax credits likely lost thanks to President Trump’s One Big Beautiful Bill Act (title sarcasm officially detected). Unfortunately, Oregon’s famously slow permitting process—reportedly among the nation’s least green-friendly—joins forces with Bonneville Power Administration’s transmission lines, jam-packed tighter than an L.A. freeway at rush hour, to threaten 11 projects powering a million homes. Renewable Northwest’s Nicole Hughes warns simply speeding permits won’t help, since connecting to transmission lines can take literal years. The governor shrugged, prioritizing projects “shovel-ready” enough to survive federal drama and state bureaucracy that’s as cooperative as a caffeinated cat.
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Oregon’s grand plan to fast-track solar is about as effective as sprinting through quicksand while the federal grid runs a three-car pileup on transmission approval. Tax credits might expire before the wires unjam—or before permit papers finish printing.
Trying to build wind and solar in Oregon is like ordering a gourmet meal through federal bureaucracy: decades later, you still get a cold plate and a bill for patience.
Governor Kotek ordered a solar fast-track race but grandpa transmission lines refuse to move. Spoiler: the tax credit will probably expire before anyone crosses the finish line.
Source: Propublica | Published: 10/8/2025 | Author: by Monica Samayoa, Oregon Public Broadcasting
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