Portland Residents Slash Energy Consumption by 70% — Here’s How They Did It

Portland homeowners are showcasing their energy-efficient renovations in the Rose City Park neighborhood. Four renovated century-old homes highlight improvements in efficiency, comfort, and resilience. Frank Granshaw’s nearly all-electric 1929 house, equipped with solar panels and a community subscription, boasts a 70% decrease in energy use. Tom and Dineen Crowe transformed their 1923 bungalow into an all-electric home with 9.22 kW of rooftop solar and a Franklin WH aPower2 15 kWh battery. Larry Ferguson’s 1927 home and Chris Cross’s 1912 house also feature heat pumps, solar systems, and enhanced weatherization. The free Solar Oregon 2026 Go Zero! Tour, running from 1-4 p.m. on Saturday, Oct. 3, requires registration at tinyurl.com/GoZeroTour2026, culminating in a gathering from 3-5 p.m. at Hi-Top Tavern in Portland.