Renewable Energy
The Vital Role of the Lower Snake River Dams
A crucial asset for the Northwest and our members By Josh Lozano, Benton REA Director of Energy Policy and Contract Management The four lower Snake River dams (LSRD)—Ice Harbor, Lower Monumental, Little Goose, and Lower Granite—are indispensable to the Northwest. Their benefits extend to our cooperative membership and beyond, impacting energy production, economic…
Federal Hydro System Powers Region Through Arctic Blast
Federal dams were operating at levels not seen since the age of aluminum smelters in the Northwest and were key to keeping the lights on.
Dams: One Structure, Many Benefits
At first glance, dams look like they hold back and store water, but they actually do so much more. Dams protect communities from floods, provide water to irrigate farmland, enable safe passage for boats and barges, create places to play on the river and provide the Northwest with renewable, carbon-free electricity. While not all dams…
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…
Solar Equipment 101
If a person had a Rip Van Winkle moment and fell asleep under a tree a decade ago, they would be amazed at how far solar photovoltaic systems have come. Technology continues to evolve at a rapid pace. Once the most expensive form of electricity generation, economies of scale in manufacturing and advances in technology…
Questions to Ask Your Solar Contractor
As with any major home improvement project, buying from the right contractor is every bit as important as the product you are buying. Due diligence is critical to ensure you get the best system for a fair price, and that it is installed correctly and on time. This lengthy list of questions may help you…
Idaho Congressman Seeks Support for Plan to Breach the Snake River Hydropower Dams
U.S. Representative Mike Simpson of Idaho wants to get the Columbia and Snake River dams out of seemingly endless court battles. Simpson has a plan to breach the lower Snake River dams while compensating electricity, river transportation and irrigation stakeholders through a infrastructure funding bill that could hit President Joe Biden’s desk this year. This…
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…
Clean Energy: The Northwest Way of Life
Life in the Northwest is shaped by the Columbia River and all it has to offer. From clean energy to clean air, this iconic waterway is forever giving. It Fuels the Cleanest Power System in the Nation Dams in the Columbia River Basin produce more electricity than any other North American river. They provide nearly…