Energy Savings
Paying for February in April
Stan Fields: “Miss Rhode Island, please describe your idea of a perfect date.” Miss Rhode Island: “That’s a tough one. I’d have to say April 25th. Because it’s not too hot, not too cold, all you need is a light jacket.” This scene from the 2000 film “Miss Congeniality” explains perfectly how many of us…
10 Steps to Take Before Installing Solar
As prices decline and technology improves, installing a residential solar system—also called a photo-voltaic system—makes sense for some. However, it’s important to know the facts before committing to a purchase. Consider these points as you explore whether solar is right for you. 1. MAKE YOUR HOME MORE ENERGY EFFICIENT BEFORE BUYING A SOLAR SYSTEM Adding…
Five Ways to Stay Cozy this Winter
Baby, it’s cold outside! When you’re feeling chilly at home, there are several budget-friendly ways to stay comfortable without turning up the thermostat. Here are five easy ways: Whether you’re experiencing extremely cold winter temperatures or you simply “run cold,” an electric blanket can deliver quick warmth in a way a regular throw or blanket…
Three DIY Efficiency Projects to Tackle in 2021
A new year brings new opportunities to save energy and money. You may think energy-efficiency upgrades require a great deal of time and expense, but that’s not always the case. If you to make your home more efficient, but don’t want to break the bank, there are several do-it-yourself projects you can tackle to increase…
Four Ways to Save Energy In the Kitchen
Ah, the kitchen. It’s undeniably one of the most-loved rooms in our homes. It’s where we gather with family and friends for our favorite meals and memories. Like most of us, you probably aren’t thinking about saving energy when you’re planning that perfect dish. Here are four ways to save energy in the kitchen with…
Plant Windbreak Trees and Save Energy
It’s been said the Tri-Cities is a windy area. You’ll get no argument from most area residents. Wind erodes our soil and leads to nasty dust storms. Winter winds can increase a home’s heating costs 10% to 40%. Wind can also be just plain annoying. You can’t stop the wind, but you can slow it…
Residential HVAC Rebates Increase
Benton REA᾽s residential rebates have recently increased for efficient heating and cooling systems. Ductless Heat Pump – $1,300 This technology is ideal for smaller homes currently without ductwork. Benton REA᾽s ductless heat pump rebate increased to $1,300. Heat Pump – Up to $1,600 Rebates for a new heat pump range from $200 to $1,600, depending…
$80K Window Rebate Makes Energy-Efficient Upgrade Possible
If you live in or drive by Westview Garden Apartments on West Richland’s 38th Avenue, you will notice new paint and new roofs. What you cannot see is residents enjoying lower electricity bills from their new, energy-efficient windows. “The windows are awesome,” says one apartment resident. “Our electric bill is down about $30 a month…
Smart Thermostat Options and Rebates
A comparison of the market’s smartest and most popular Heating and cooling costs account for about half of a user’s energy bill, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When it comes to reducing energy use and cutting home energy costs, programming the thermostat can make a big impact. The right thermostat settings could yield…
Prosser Public Charging Station Operational
On May 11, Prosser gained an electric vehicle (EV) fast charger at 20 Merlot Drive, near the Verizon store and Chevron. The EV fast-charging station is the last to be energized as part of a nine-station network along Washington state highway corridors designed to enhance interstate and intrastate EV travel. The others are in Cle…