Solar and Other Renewable Energy Net Metering Program
Benton REA has closed applications for the Washington state Renewable Energy Incentive Program as it has met the WSU Energy Program cap per state legislation. Funds for this program have been exhausted; however, Benton REA members can still participate in Net Metering through Benton REA, with no state incentive.
If you have an application that has been filed with Benton REA and we have returned a copy of the signed interconnection agreement, you may proceed with building your renewable energy system.
Benton REA is your trusted partner in navigating the world of renewable energy. Although we do not sell or recommend any particular brands or products, we can help you navigate the options, incentives and tax credits that are available for your solar, wind, water or biogas project.
Net Metering is an incentive designed to encourage and enable Benton REA members to generate their own electric power at their home, business or both. The power you generate is credited against your monthly electric bill. Generating electricity will reduce the amount of electricity Benton REA will provide to you and help you save on your monthly energy bill.
How to participate
- Contact Benton REA to discuss current program incentives and requirements by calling 509-786-8265.
- Select the qualifying system you want to install.
- Submit a net metering (interconnection) application and pay the $525 fee to Benton REA. Upon approval, the member may begin the installation. This includes a new net meter provided by Benton REA.
- Follow the steps in Benton REA’s policies for installation and inspection of your system until final approval by Benton REA.
- Start generating power!
Qualifying Renewable Projects: Solar - Water - Wind - Biogas
Potential Incentives*
- Federal Tax Credits - Amount changes annually
- $0.0799/kWh Net Metering
- State Incentive: Benton REA has met the Washington State University Energy Program cap, thus there are no state incentive dollars left to fund the program
- For Commercial State Incentives, contact Benton REA
*Residential and commercial incentives are subject to change at any time. Contact Benton REA at 509-786-8265 for current program details.
Calculating Your Actual Monthly Electricity Use
Due to the way Benton REA electric meters read the energy consumed by your home and produced by your solar generation system, you cannot determine how many kilowatt-hours of electricity your home uses each month by viewing your electric bill. However, you may use this document to calculate your home’s actual electricity use, which may also help you conserve even more energy.
Click the button to download the document.
For Current Participants
Annual renewable energy production reports are due to Benton REA by July 15 of each year. You may print the form or download a fillable version. To complete the form digitally, download and save the form to your computer. Then complete the form and save it again.
Return your report to rmitchell@bentonrea.org or mail it to:
Benton REA, Attn: Ron Mitchell
PO Box 1150
Prosser, WA 99350