Portland is setting its sights on distributing an additional 10,000 free air conditioning units to qualified residents by the end of next year, building on the success of its existing program.
Residents can apply for these units by reaching out through 311 or filling out an online form provided by the city.
The initiative is part of the Portland Clean Energy Fund’s Cooling Portland program, which offers energy-efficient portable air conditioners to residents with lower incomes.
This program was established following the tragic 2021 heat dome that resulted in nearly 100 heat-related deaths across Oregon.
As of now, the program has dramatically surpassed its initial goal by installing over 15,770 units in just under five years.
Cooling Portland stands out as one of the few remaining government-backed programs in Oregon dedicated to connecting residents with essential cooling systems, especially after two other similar initiatives that emerged post-heat dome have depleted their funding.
During the deadly heat wave of 2021, many victims were discovered alone in their homes without air conditioning, underscoring the urgent need for such programs.
Meanwhile, both the Oregon Department of Energy and the Oregon Health Authority have also rolled out programs providing qualified individuals access to heat pumps, either through rebates or by offering them at no cost.
However, due to the high demand for these services, they have quickly exhausted their funds.
In light of this, climate advocates are urging state legislators to allocate funds toward these vital programs, although it remains uncertain if lawmakers will respond positively.
A study conducted by the Oregon Department of Energy last year revealed that many of the state’s most vulnerable populations still lack adequate cooling equipment during the increasingly hot summer months.
It also highlighted that residents in Multnomah County are particularly at risk of extreme heat exposure and have limited means to cope.
Jaimes Valdez, the strategic partnerships and policy manager for PCEF, emphasized that Cooling Portland aims to address these gaps.
Funded through the Portland Clean Energy Fund, the program received a significant boost last year when city councilors allocated an additional $10.3 million to continue its efforts.
Valdez expressed enthusiasm about the program’s achievements, stating, ‘We’re really excited that the program has been successful in meeting those goals ahead of time, and we reached a little over 15,000 units a few weeks ago.’
With this momentum, the new target is set to deliver a total of 25,000 units by the end of next year, aiming to install 10,000 additional units over the next year and a half.
The program specifically caters to low-income Portland residents who live within the city limits and lack the financial means to purchase this equipment independently.
Priority is given to seniors over 60, individuals living alone, and those with medical conditions that heighten their vulnerability to heat.
As rising temperatures become more commonplace, with increasing numbers of days exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit, programs like Cooling Portland are vital in providing relief to the city’s most at-risk residents.
‘What we’ve learned from the first few years of the program is that there’s a significant need out there,’ Valdez noted.
‘We’re in a new climate reality, witnessing many more hot days each summer over 80 degrees, and it’s clear that people need access to cooling solutions.’
He added, ‘This program is designed to fill that gap for those who are income eligible.’
To streamline access for qualified individuals, Cooling Portland has collaborated with PDX 311, a city initiative focused on making local government programs more accessible.
Valdez reported an increase in calls received by PDX 311 during hotter temperatures, noting that heightened awareness of heat-related risks prompts more residents to seek assistance.
He stated, ‘Our understanding is that earlier this week, we had a hot weekend, and they received a little over 1,100 calls total, with around half of those inquiries related to Cooling Portland.’
PDX 311 operates seven days a week from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for residents seeking assistance.
For those interested, applications can also be completed online.
The program has partnered with Earth Advantage, a local organization responsible for procuring the air conditioning units, managing inventory, and coordinating delivery and installation with community partners.
Pilar Calderin, senior climate justice program manager with Earth Advantage, remarked, ‘Meeting the original goal early is a testament to the strength of the systems we’ve built with our distribution partners.’
Calderin also highlighted the deep demand for this assistance, asserting that with continued support, they are determined to help even more Portlanders stay healthy during extreme heat events.
As temperatures rise, Earth Advantage anticipates a surge in installations, ensuring that vulnerable residents receive the necessary relief.
image source from：https://www.opb.org/article/2025/06/11/portland-10000-free-air-conditioners-climate-resilience-heat/
