During these difficult economic times, affordability is often top of mind. It’s why I’ve become interested in solar energy even as a renter living in Eugene. Once the upfront costs of solar are covered, the energy collected can be low-cost or even free.

This is one of the many reasons why I plan to vote yes on Measure 20-388, the Eugene Clean Energy Fund. The fund would help residents, small businesses, schools and neighborhoods cover the upfront costs associated with solar while sourcing local labor and decreasing our energy bills.  

The Eugene Clean Energy Fund would establish a 2% fee on the gross profits of billion-dollar corporations that make at least $1 billion nationally and $500,000 locally to fund clean energy projects in Eugene.

If we, the residents of Eugene, decide to pass Measure 20-388, we will be creating an entirely new sector of opportunities for our local labor and trade unions who are already endorsing the measure, including IBEW Local 280, Iron Workers Local 29, and Lane, Coos, Curry, Douglas Building Trades Council, just to name a few. If you enjoy low-cost energy and supporting the local economy, vote yes on Measure 20-388 to help keep Eugene green.

Becca Schnabel
Eugene