Energy Savings

A blue humidifier vents steam out the top. It is resting on a white table with a tropical house plant behind it. Photo by Abby Berry, NRECA

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…

A young boy stands on a washing machine and dryer wearing a towel like a cape, swimming goggles and a swimming cap. He is standing with his hands on his hips like a superhero pose.

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…

a woman places a plastic lid in the top rack of her dishwasher

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…

An illustration of a tree windbreak with evergreens in different shades of green

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…

A ductless heat pump outdoor unit. Photo by Lincoln Barbour, courtesy of NEEA.

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…

Property Manager Kari Kallio and Owner Don Winton accept a $80,196 window rebate from Benton REA for upgrades to the Westview Gardens Apartments in West Richland.

$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…

A woman walks down stairs in her home. There is a smart thermostat on the wall near her.

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…

Electric Vehicle Fast Charting station with sign that says "Reserved for Electric Vehicle Charging"

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…

A mom and daughter sit on daughter's bed, both looking at a phone

Power Bills, Reliable Service and COVID-19

Answers to your questions about Benton REA’s response to the COVID-19 outbreak. Q: Are my electricity and internet service considered essential? A: Yes. Benton REA and PowerNET are considered essential service providers and will remain operating during the COVID-19 outbreak and stay-home order. Reliable electricity and internet services are critical to fighting the virus. Benton…

#PowerOn logo

#PowerOn

Energy Assistance helps members power on through COVID-19 The last few months have taken a toll on our community, but we’re working together, supporting each other and powering on. If the COVID-19 outbreak had a negative financial impact on your household or business, Benton REA can help you stay up to date on your electric…