Recent Co-op News
Winter Weather May Impact Electric Bills
Follow these tips to save energy During these colder months, you may see an increase in your electric bill. When outdoor temperatures drop, electricity use increases. That’s because we’re doing more activities inside, and our heating systems are running longer and more often to counteract colder outdoor temperatures. If you...
Cybersecurity Tips For a Safer Digital World
Did you know the average household with internet access owns about 17 connected devices? That figure covers a wide range of electronics, including smart phones, computers, streaming devices, smart thermostats, home assistants and more. Given our increasing reliance on internet-connected technologies, the likelihood of new cyber threats is ever-present. Benton...
Electric Co-ops Grow for the Communities They Serve
October is National Co-op Month, and Benton REA is joining cooperatives across the U.S. to celebrate. Co-ops come in all shapes and sizes, but they each have a common goal: to provide goods or services for the members of the co-op. Electric co-ops, including Benton REA, exist to serve their...
Go Above and Beyond for a Safe Harvest
Modern farming often relies on data and equipment with GPS and auto-guidance systems. However, even with these modern conveniences, farm workers must remain vigilant. That’s because farming is considered one of the most dangerous jobs. Massive machinery is indispensable to farming, but the same impressive size, height and extensions...
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...
5 Tips to Beat the Summer Heat
Summer temperatures are here, and to put it simply, it's HOT! Although we're used to the hot summer temperatures on our area, it's always good to be reminded of some things that can make you more comfortable and save some energy at the same time. Happy Summer! Ceiling Fans Did...
What You Need to Know About Furnace Filters
With so many options available, picking the right filter for your home is not easy. These tips can make the process simpler! Changing furnace filters is one of the many household chores that is often forgottenor skipped, but not changing your furnace filter could have expensive consequences. A dirty filter...
May is Electrical Safety Month
Prioritize Safety Year-Round Benton REA recognizes Electrical Safety Month every May, but it is important to practice safety year-round. According to the Electrical Safety Foundation International, thousands of people in the U.S. are critically injured or electrocuted as a result of electrical fires and accidents in their own homes. Many...
Programs to Help You Pay Your Electric Bill
Benton REA has programs available to help you pay your electric bill. We understand life can be tough and it’s easy to fall behind. We want to make sure you can get back on your feet, by offering financial assistance and guiding you to the right services. Please contact a...
5 Ways to Help You Save on Your Summer Energy Bill
Here are 5 ways that can help you save energy, money, and increase the comfort of your home. Installing a smart thermostat is one of the simplest ways to manage home energy use and keep summer bills in check. Smart thermostats are easy to install and allow you to control...
Planting Trees and Bushes for Energy Efficiency
Careful planning can lead to a beautiful, safe, energy saving landscape. Spring and summer are opportune times for yard work and DIY projects. Making improvements to your landscaping can provide valuable shade and promote better efficiency, lowering your summer energy bills. Large deciduous (leaf-shedding) trees planted on the east, west,...
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. Plunging temperatures across the Pacific Northwest that stayed below freezing for four days from January 12-16 were no match for the Federal Columbia River Power...