Community support has made this year's competition too close to call.
Emerald People's Utility District (EPUD) is extending voting in its 2026 GREEN Grant competition after the initial voting period ended in a tie between two outstanding community organizations: Cottage Theatre and Friends of Buford Park & Mount Pisgah.
The annual GREEN Grant program awards funding to support local renewable energy projects, with the winning organization selected by EPUD GREEN program participants. This year's competition generated strong community engagement, resulting in an exact tie between the two finalists.
To ensure a clear winner can be determined, EPUD is reopening voting for a limited time and inviting GREEN participants to cast their ballots in the runoff competition.
This year's finalists have inspired support from the community. The tie reflects the value both organizations bring to our region and the enthusiasm people have for local renewable energy projects. We encourage eligible voters to participate in this final round and help decide which project will receive the $40,000 GREEN Grant.
The Finalists
- Cottage Theatre is seeking funding for a renewable energy project that would reduce energy costs while supporting the organization's mission of bringing performing arts opportunities to the community.
- Friends of Buford Park & Mount Pisgah proposes a solar energy project that would help power operations at the Buford Park Nursery while advancing the organization's commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainability.
The winning project will receive funding through EPUD's GREEN program, which allows customers to voluntarily support renewable energy initiatives and community-based clean energy projects throughout Lane County.
Vote Today
GREEN participants are encouraged to review the finalist projects and cast their vote before the extended deadline of Thursday, August 20, 2026. Every vote helps determine which local organization will receive GREEN Grant funding and move its renewable energy project forward.
Learn more about the finalists and vote.
Subscribe to GREEN for as little as $5 per month.
About the GREEN Program
EPUD's GREEN program provides customers with an affordable way to support renewable energy. Funds contributed through the program help support renewable energy initiatives, including the annual GREEN Grant competition, which invests directly in local projects that benefit the communities EPUD serves.