Green Energy Institute

Developing smart and comprehensive legal and policy strategies to address climate change and support a swift and equitable transition to a sustainable, carbon-free energy grid.

Our policy recommendations and publications have charted the course for reform, and our Charged Debate blog explores current energy policy issues.

Green Energy Institute News

GEI Law Clerks Graduate

Students, come work with GEI!

Interested in supporting GEI’s mission and learning skills to support you in your future energy law career? Apply to be a law clerk with GEI!

environmental law
Cole (left) speaking at the Data Centers: New Kids on the Block panel

Green Energy Institute Presents at 2026 Energy Policy Conference of the Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board

The Oregon Citizens’ Utility Board invited L&C alumni and staff attorneys from the Green Energy Institute as panel speakers for the annual Energy Policy Conference, “Harnessing Local Energy is Tomorrow.” 

If we have to, let's use clean energy

POWER Act Implementation: Comparing Approaches to Data Centers in PGE and PacifiCorp Territory

Governor Kotek signed HB 3546, Oregon’s POWER Act, into law on June 16, 2025. Implementation in territory served by Portland General Electric and in parts of Oregon served by Pacific Power (aka PacifiCorp) looks different. 

environmental law
Google Data Center The Dalles

Regulating the Rise of Data Centers in Oregon

Green Energy Institute staff and students are advancing solutions under Oregon’s POWER Act to address the environmental and economic impacts of data center expansion. The Oregon Public Utility Commission’s recent ruling, citing GEI throughout, ordered some of the most innovative and protective outcomes from a public utility commission in the nation.

Past Events

July 13, 2026

July 13 - Fall in Love with the Future. Empowering Local Climate Action: Education, Policy and Practice

Kick off your PNW Climate Week right! It’s time to take solutions into our own hands. Enjoy the company of other youth and advocates of all ages who are ready to race to save the planet. There is no better way to launch a week dedicated to our planet than by grounding ourselves in hope, strategy and community. The livestream link is available here.

Youth v. Gov Climate Documentary and Panel, Nov. 11, 5:30 pm, at L&C Law Schoo, McCarty Classroom 2
November 11, 2025

LAW: Youth v. Gov film screening and panel discussion with the Citizens’ Climate Lobby

Join NEDC and the Citizens’ Climate Lobby for a screening of Youth v. Gov! The film follows the landmark case where youth sued the U.S. government for its role in the climate crisis. Afterwards, hear from panelists, including, the nonprofit that represented the youth, Our Children’s Trust. 6:00pm. RSVP here.

November 7, 2025

Corporations and Climate Change - Business Law Fall Forum

Register now for this great event featuring panels discussing ESG and Climate Reporting and Investing, Industry and NGO perspectives on disclosure initiatives, Net Zero Targets, and Corporate Climate Litigation!

This event has been approved for 4 general CLE credits.

More News and Events →