Energy Savings
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,…
Register Your EV, Get $100
Benton REA members can receive up to $100 from Benton REA toward the purchase of an electric vehicle when they register them with the co-op. Members will receive $100 for electric vehicles purchased before a Level 2 charger has been installed in their homes or businesses where the vehicles will be charged. Members can receive…
How Long Will an EV Battery Last?
How long will an electric vehicle battery last, and what is the price to replace it? The response is often “it depends.” Many electric vehicle models come with an eight-year/100,000 mile warranty, but some do not. While there is little agreement in the EV industry as to how long a vehicle battery will last, there…
Three Ways to Electrify Your Lawn Care
Summer is just around the corner, and you can already smell the freshly cut grass. If you are in the market to upgrade your lawn care equipment, you may want to consider electric or battery-powered options. Gas-powered lawn mowers and trimmers may be your go-to, but times they are a-changin’. Electric lawn care equipment options…
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…