Recent Co-op News
Be A Fam With A Plan
January 23, 2024
It’s not pleasant to think about worst-case scenarios, but a little planning can make a big difference if the worst happens. Follow these tips to avoid feeling helpless during a disaster. Before Communicate: Talk with your family about who to call, where to go and what to do if disaster...
Dams: One Structure, Many Benefits
January 23, 2024
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...
2024 Scholarships and Youth Tour Applications Due January 8
December 4, 2023
Children of Benton REA members whose main residence is in Benton, Yakima or Lewis counties may apply for the co-op's 2024 continuing education scholarships and the Youth Tour to Washington, D.C. Funds for Benton REA's scholarships, youth tour and other education programs come from members' unclaimed ownership credits. Applications are...
Lasers Protect Birds and Prevent Large Electric Outages
September 1, 2022
Why do you live where you live? Is it close to where you earn your income that feeds your family? Is it a structurally sound building in a safe neighborhood? These are the same reasons birds choose to nest inside electric substations. The steel beams and small hiding spots within...
Surge Protection for $6 A Month
April 14, 2022
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...
A Month of Appreciation
April 1, 2022
Lineworker Appreciation If you have noticed Benton REA's line crews working on power lines and other electrical equipment, it's no secret a lineworker's job is tough—but it's a job that's essential. This month we celebrate lineworkers. The next time you see a lineworker, please thank them for the work they...
A Day on the Lines
March 25, 2022
Benton REA Line crews work hard day and night to keep the lights on Story and photos by David Herder As the Benton Rural Electric Association lineworkers arrive to their worksite on a late February morning, the poles they plan to raise are covered in snow. For the past week,...
Irrigating Around Electricity
March 17, 2022
Know the Risks and How to Safe Safe Spring planting is around the corner. Whether you’re a large producer or backyard gardener, keeping safety in mind as you plant and irrigate can save your life. Know What’s Below Do you know where the overhead and underground utilities are on your...
Power Outage Safety Before, During, After Storms
February 6, 2022
Weather-related electric outages happen year-round. Be prepared before a flood, snow, ice or wind storm strikes. Before the Storm Save 800-221-6987 in your contacts so you can quickly report outages. It's equally important to give Benton REA your current phone number and email address so you can be informed about...
Benton REA Buys Land for New Administration Building in West Richland
January 28, 2022
Electric prices will not increase due to phased construction schedule. After years of research, the Benton REA Board of Trustees approved the purchase of 17.79 acres on Keene Road in West Richland in December 2021. The land will be home to a new Benton REA administration building, with room to...
The Future Is Electric
January 11, 2022
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...
Understanding Power Surges and Blinks
December 7, 2021
Have you noticed your lights blink during a storm? Perhaps you’ve noticed a blinking microwave clock when you arrive home. When this happens, you’ve likely experienced a brief disruption to your electric service, which could result from a power surge or blink. While the symptoms of surges and blinks can...