Current News
One Year of Community Solar
Benton REA’s community solar project went live January 2, 2019. In one year, Co-op Solar produced 41,000 kilowatt hours of electricity—enough to power two efficient, modern, all-electric, 2,000-square-foot homes for one year. Thirty-one Benton REA members invested in the project and are reaping the benefits of renewable, carbon-free energy produced in West Richland. “We thought…
Energy Help is Available
To ease the financial burden caused by energy costs on Benton REA’s low-income, senior or disabled residential members, Benton REA offers a discount of $24 each month to qualifying members. Qualifications: Combined annual household income that is equal to or less than 150% of the Washington state poverty guideline for two-member households. Applicants must be…
Four Tips for Winter Safety
It’s no surprise that winter months bring increased potential for fire risks and electrical safety hazards. During the coldest months, consumers use additional electrical devices and appliances, such as space heaters, electric blankets and portable generators. The National Fire Protection Association estimates that 47,700 home fires occur each year in the U.S. due to electrical…
Blood Donors Needed
Benton REA is partnering with the American Red Cross to collect blood donations Thursday, January 23, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Benton REA Prosser office. Donors of all blood types are needed, especially those with types O negative, B negative and A negative. According to the Red Cross, type O negative is…
More than $1.8 Million Paid Back to Members in December
This month, Benton REA is paying back more than $1,836,000 in capital credits to its members. All utilities have margins, but only electric cooperatives such as Benton REA allocate and, over time, pay back those margins to their members. One million dollars will be returned to members using the percentage of equity method, with an…
Low October Temperatures Cause High Bills
October was unusually cold, causing electric heating systems to use more energy According to the National Weather Service, October 2019 was the coldest on record for several cities in Yakima and Benton counties. The average temperature was 44.8 degrees in Yakima and 48 degrees in Richland. Seven days dipped down to or below 32 degrees…
Introducing A New SmartHub Experience
SmartHub, Benton REA’s mobile payment and account app, underwent a facelift last month. You may have noticed the update to your app. If you don’t have the app yet, you can download it from the Apple Store or Google Play Marketplace. SmartHub has helped Benton REA members connect with their co-op since 2015. With a…
Be Prepared for Winter Storms
When winter temperatures drop and storms hit, it can be challenging to stay safe and warm. Benton REA cares about your safety. Heavy snow and ice can lead to downed power lines and power outages. During extremely low temperatures, this can be dangerous. During a power outage, our crews work as quickly and safely as…
Students: Apply Now for 2020 Scholarships and Youth Tour
Benton REA scholarship and Youth Tour applications are available online. Youth Tour applications are due December 3. Scholarship applications are due January 3, 2020. Seniors Graduating seniors whose parents are members of Benton REA and whose main residence is within Benton, Yakima or Lewis counties are eligible to apply forBenton REA’s scholarships. Up to five…
Sign up for Youth Program and Energy-Efficiency Webinars
Benton REA will host three free webinars in November about its youth programs and residential energy-efficiency programs. “We want to let our members know about these great member benefits, but we know not everyone has time to attend a class”, says Troy Berglund, manager of community development and member relations. “By attending a webinar, you…