Member Services
You Have the Power to Care
In September 2020, Benton REA launched the Power to Care bill assistance program. Two years later, the program has helped income-qualified members pay nearly $30,000 in past-due bills. Donating to the Fund Each month, 582 Benton REA members choose to round up their electric bill to the nearest dollar or more. Since 2020, members have…
Hot Air Balloon Gives Free Rides for Charity
Benton REA employees choose Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels for Cooperative Balloon Associates’ donation The Cooperative Balloon Associates donated $510 to Mid-Columbia Meals on Wheels on behalf of Benton REA. Every day the hot air balloon is flown, a monetary contribution is made to a local charity on behalf of the sponsoring Touchstone Energy Cooperative. Benton…
Rebates Increase for Low-Income Homeowners
Rebates for heat pumps and hybrid electric water heaters have significantly increased for homeowners who qualify as low-income. Benton REA is making $100,000 available to members through September 2023. For heat pump upgrades and conversions from another heating system, the rebate is now as much as $6,200. The installation of a single-head ductless heat pump…
BentonREA.org/EV Makes Finding an EV Charger Easy
Did you know there are more than 30 public electric vehicle charging stations between Pasco and Yakima? You can find any public charging station in the country at www.BentonREA.org/EV. Click the “Charger Finder” tab and search by zip code, type of charger and type of connector. If you’re planning a longer trip, the “Map a…
Arbor Day Foundation Recognizes Benton REA as Tree Line USA Utility
Benton REA was named a 2022 Tree Line USA utility by the Arbor Day Foundation in recognition of its dedication to proper urban forest management. Tree Line USA—a partnership between the Arbor Day Foundation and the National Association of State Foresters—recognizes utilities for pursuing best practices that protect and cultivate America’s urban tree canopy. Tree…
Surge Protection for $6 A Month
A power surge is an unexpected increase in voltage. Regardless of the cause, power surges can damage electronics in your home. Benton REA offers surge protection at your electric meter for only $6 a month. But first, let’s look at common causes of power surges and how you can protect your sensitive electronics. One of…
Plant Trees for the Next Generation
If you plan to plant trees on your property this year, think of the life of the tree. Planting a tree incorrectly or in the wrong place can shorten its life, especially if it could grow near power lines. Always call 811 before you dig, no matter how shallow or deep you go. Avoid planting…
Dreaming of the Sun
As the days get longer, the sun is on our minds. You may be wondering if solar energy is right for you. Here are answers to the frequently asked questions we receive from members considering a solar photovoltaic system investment. How Much Electricity Can I Generate? This depends on several factors. The first is the…
Claim Your Ownership Cash
Benton REA members, you may have money on the table. Each year the Benton REA Board of Trustees chooses to pay back ownership credits to members, and thousands of those checks go uncashed. After one year, uncashed checks become unclaimed and the funds are transferred to Benton REA’s Education Fund. Benton REA can use money…
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…