Linfield University has acquired two electric utility carts thanks to funding from Portland General Electric’s (PGE) 2025 Drive Change Fund, made possible by the Oregon DEQ’s Clean Fuels Program. These carts support operations and security teams on Linfield’s Portland campus, while reducing maintenance costs and campus emissions.
“With support from PGE’s Drive Change Fund, we can modernize our fleet in a practical, sustainable way,” said Nina Tall, director of Portland Campus Operations at Linfield. “The new carts help our facilities and security teams respond faster to campus needs and uphold Linfield’s sustainability goals.”
The university previously received a 2022 PGE Drive Change Fund grant to install electric vehicle charging stations.
Arriving last month, the new carts — two 2023–24 EZGO Express S2 Elite models — feature Linfield colors, cargo boxes and weather enclosures. They replace a single gas-powered cart from 1995 that is no longer serviceable.
Campus operations and security are utilizing the carts to handle maintenance, respond quickly to emergencies and support campus safety.
“With the addition of two electric carts equipped for hauling, our public safety and operations teams can monitor campus more efficiently, respond quickly to emergencies and provide transportation for injured or disabled students, employees and visitors,” Tall said.
“Portland General Electric is excited to award funds from Oregon DEQ’s Clean Fuels Program to support our partners in expanding electric transportation systems across the state,” said Elyssia Lawrence, senior manager, product manager and head of PGE’s Transportation Electrification team. “Transportation electrification plays an essential role in accelerating the clean energy transition. It is going to take all of us working together to achieve a cleaner and more equitable future for all Oregonians.”
Transportation is the largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions in Oregon and a major source of urban air pollutants. Linfield is proud to partner with PGE to take meaningful steps toward a cleaner, more resilient campus operation.
Linfield’s commitment to sustainability is well recognized. For the 14th year in a row, The Princeton Review’s included Linfield in its Guide to Green Colleges. This listing acknowledges institutions with strong environmental programs, policies and practices. Other sustainability-focused initiatives include:
- Adding a Sustainability Living Community residential option on the McMinnville campus.
- Offering a reusable to-go container program, as well as reusable dishes and silverware for events on both campuses.
- A robust recycling program and campus gardens on both campuses.
- EV chargers administered by ChargePoint on both campuses.
Learn more about Linfield’s green and environmentally friendly efforts at linfield.edu/sustainability.
