October 7, 2026
For many Portland households, making improvements that increase comfort, improve energy efficiency, and reduce energy costs feels out of reach. The Energy Friendly Homes Program is designed to change that. Funded by the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF), Energy Friendly Homes helps income-qualified households access home energy upgrades while providing extra support throughout the process.
Since Energy Friendly Homes launched in early 2026, 85 project installations have been completed. But the impact of Energy Friendly Homes extends beyond the upgrades themselves. The Program is built around relationships with clients, contractors, community partners, and the Client Navigators.
As the Program’s Client Navigator, CEP staff accompany homeowners during the energy assessment, provide translation services, and offer personalized support throughout what can otherwise be an overwhelming process.
For CEP’s Client Navigator staff, Valeria and Breanne, that support is about more than helping clients understand the next step. Their approaches have made an impression on clients. Eight of the Program’s first participants shared feedback on the services and their appreciation:
“Valeria was incredible – being able to speak my language, she explained everything very clearly, and they were all very kind.”
“Breanne was wonderful and outgoing – a really friendly person. She came out to the house, and it was like she had known them all her life.”
The program has also been impactful for Valeria and Breanne, who both shared their reflections one year into the Energy Friendly Homes Program.
What drew you to the Client Navigator position?
Valeria: The opportunity to work with different communities. I am able to help a complicated process feel a bit more manageable while building relationships with clients and helping them feel supported and heard.
Breanne: I grew up in a low-income household, so I've seen firsthand the sacrifices many households make to get by. I had to jump at the opportunity to build trust with and serve frontline communities.
From your experience in the field, why is a position like this important?
Valeria: I think a Client Navigator role is important because home energy upgrades can involve a lot of moving pieces, different people, and a lot of unfamiliar terminology. Having someone who can bridge the gap between the Program, the contractors, and client provides that extra trust needed to fulfill a successful project.
Breanne: Similar programs can be challenging to navigate, particularly for those who need additional support. We remove barriers that prevent the most vulnerable people from receiving much-needed services.
How has your technical knowledge developed over the past year?
Valeria: My technical knowledge has grown tremendously over the past year. I've learned so much about home energy assessments and energy efficiency from program staff and being in people's homes. I still have a lot to learn but feel a lot more confident in understanding the technical side and helping clients navigate those conversations.
Breanne: I completed my Building Analyst Professional certification this year, and I use what I learn every day with clients and colleagues. I went from basic weatherization knowledge to understanding the home as a system.
Tell us about one positive interaction with a client that stands out in your mind.
Valeria: One interaction that stands out to me is working with a client who was feeling really frustrated by delays and miscommunication with her project. Taking the time to listen to her concerns and meeting her where she was made a huge difference. She had also referred several people in her community to the program, so it was especially meaningful to be able to support someone who had been such a strong advocate for the program.
Breanne: I ran into a client at an event this summer; it was so great to catch up in a relaxed setting and hear about how much their comfort has improved. I even purchased some of their art!
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
Valeria: One of the things I've appreciated about this role is seeing the direct impact this program has had on so many people in the city of Portland. Being able to support someone through the entirety of the process has been truly rewarding. I am excited to see how the program continues to grow.
