Energy Savings

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Winter Weather May Impact Electric Bills

Follow these tips to save energy During these colder months, you may see an increase in your electric bill. When outdoor temperatures drop, electricity use increases. That’s because we’re doing more activities inside, and our heating systems are running longer and more often to counteract colder outdoor temperatures. If you receive a larger than normal…

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Programs to Help You Pay Your Electric Bill

Benton REA has programs available to help you pay your electric bill. We understand life can be tough and it’s easy to fall behind. We want to make sure you can get back on your feet, by offering financial assistance and guiding you to the right services.

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5 Ways to Help You Save on Your Summer Energy Bill

5 ways that can help you save energy, money, and increase the comfort of your home. These tips can help decrease your utility bill.

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Planting Trees and Bushes for Energy Efficiency

Careful planning can lead to a beautiful, safe, energy saving landscape.  Spring and summer are opportune times for yard work and DIY projects. Making improvements to your landscaping can provide valuable shade and promote better efficiency, lowering your summer energy bills. Large deciduous (leaf-shedding) trees planted on the east, west, and northwest sides of your…

A woman and cat sit on a couch with a blanket. A space heater is on in front of them.

Are Portable Space Heaters Efficient?

Small space heaters are meant to do exactly as their name says: heat a small space. Unfortunately, many people use portable space heaters to heat their entire home, which takes a toll on their energy bills. Whether you should use space heaters depends on your home’s efficiency and energy needs. If you’re using a space…

A Detroit Electric advertisement from 1912. Black and white illustration of a woman in a winter dress and hat standing by an electric car in a snowy neighborhood. The add says "One of Our nine Rare Creations For 1912"

The Future Is Electric

In the early 20th century, electric vehicles made up close to 40% of the U.S. vehicle market share. Despite their early popularity, they began to disappear from the streets after just a few years. As roadways improved beyond city limits, people wanted to explore. With their slower speeds and shorter ranges, electric vehicles were not…

Illustration by Atilla N. Wind, solar and hydropower landscape with a river and mountains

Your Feedback Needed on Washington’s Clean Energy Transformation

The Clean Energy Transformation Act, passed in 2019 by the Washington Legislature, requires Benton REA to file a Clean Energy Implementation Plan. Benton REA is seeking member input on this plan. Clean energy is electricity that does not produce carbon or other greenhouse gases as it is generated. Examples include hydro, solar, wind, geothermal and…

A man and woman look at their heat pump water heater while an installer explain its features

What Are Hybrid Electric Water Heaters?

Hybrid electric water heaters, formerly referred to as heat pump water heaters, are revolutionizing the way we heat water. Compared to traditional electric water heaters, HEWHs can cut your water heating costs in half. Why are they called hybrids? The word hybrid appears in the name because it uses two electric methods to heat the…

A couple sits outside at a coffee business downtown

Energy Savings for Your Business

Locally owned businesses are the backbone of our community. With fall here, now is the perfect time to make sure your building is equipped for maximum energy savings. LED lighting for your business allows you to maintain your preferred brightness levels while keeping energy costs low. Don’t forget about your outdoor lighting options and timers…

A woman adjusts a thermostat that currently reads 78 degrees Fahrenheit

Potential Capacity Shortage: Members are asked to conserve energy during heat wave

Benton REA is asking members to conserve their use of electricity during these extreme high temperatures. The Bonneville Power Administration (BPA), which supplies power for Benton REA and other local utilities, has informed Benton REA that the extreme heat is putting record demand on its system. BPA says if demand for electricity continues to increase,…