Oregon customers who rely on medical equipment can get up to $1,000 for backup power

For Oregonians who rely on electrically powered medical devices, a blackout can quickly become far more serious than a simple inconvenience. 

Now, though, a Pacific Power rebate program is offering some customers financial help to cover the cost of backup power before the next outage strikes. This funding could significantly reduce the upfront costs of backup options such as battery systems, mobile power stations, and permanent generators.

Here's what to know

KTVZ reported that eligible Pacific Power customers in Oregon may be able to get money through the utility's Oregon Backup Electric Power Rebate Program. 

Qualifying households can receive up to $1,000 for a backup system, and licensed care facilities can qualify for up to $4,000, per KTVZ.

For households, eligibility depends on meeting several program rules. Applicants must have an active Pacific Power account and be enrolled in both the utility's Medical Certificate program and its Oregon Low Income Discount program, KTVZ explained. If they meet these qualifications, they can use the rebate toward backup power options. 

For licensed residential care homes, hospices, and other care facilities, the $4,000 rebate is only available if the property owner also has an active Pacific Power account.

To qualify, you must purchase eligible equipment by the end of 2026. Pacific Power must then receive the application materials and receipts by January 31, 2027, and will issue rebates in the order requests are received until funding runs out, per KTVZ.

Because the rebates are first-come, first-served, waiting too long could mean losing access to available funds before the final deadlines arrive. Customers must also keep receipts and make sure their equipment complies with the program's requirements.

Carrie Laird, who KTVZ identified as Pacific Power's vice president overseeing wildfire mitigation and emergency operations, told the outlet, "We prioritize emergency preparedness education and communication in our communities so our customers are prepared in the event [of] an outage whether related to wildfire safety or seasonal storms."

Where can I learn more?

Backup power rebates are one piece of Oregon's broader push to make energy resilience more affordable. 

• Oregonians may need to move quickly for solar and battery rebates worth as much as $7,500.

• Some homeowners can now install home backup batteries without upfront costs through Palmetto's financing model.

• In Oregon, Brookfield Renewable is trying to harness the power of sheep-grazed land for solar.

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