Benton REA Community Impact Statement

2022 was a big year for Benton REA and PowerNET. In addition to providing reliable and affordable electricity and internet services to our community, we also gave back in many ways. Keep reading to see our community impact.

Community

$1.87 Million Paid Back to Members

Since forming in 1937, Benton REA has returned more than $19.8 million to its member-owners through ownership credits.

$15,000 Donated to Food Banks

With a matching donation from CoBank, Benton REA gave back to our community during a time of need.

$204,235 Donated to Nonprofits

Benton REA donated to more than 35 nonprofit organizations, five chambers of commerce and six economic development organizations.

$52,000 Awarded in Scholarships

Benton REA awarded eight scholarships to graduating high school seniors.

$1,133,941 in City Taxes

Although the co-op is a not-for-profit, Benton REA still pays local taxes, contributing to the health of our communities. These cities include Benton City, Mabton, Prosser, Sunnyside and West Richland.

Members Pay $23,701 of Neighbors’ Bills

Benton REA members donated $22,042 to the Power to Care bill assistance program in 2022. $23,701 was credited to 108 qualifying members’ bills.

Energy & Savings

95% Carbon-Free

With hydropower and nuclear energy in its fuel mix, nearly all electricity on Benton REA power lines is produced carbon-free, per the most recent data available in the 2020 Washington State Fuel Disclosure Report.

6.35 million kWh of Solar Power Produced

In 2022, 428 Benton REA members owned 5,263 kilowatts in solar energy, producing 6,315,600 kWh of renewable electricity. That’s enough to power 276 homes for a year.

40,451 kWh of renewable energy was generated in 2022 from Benton REA’s 31.96 kW community solar farm in West Richland. From January 2019 to December 2022, it has produced 173,864 kWh.

5,315,293 kWh Saved

Benton REA residential members saved 413,269 kWh in 2022 by weatherizing their homes, buying new energy-efficient appliances, HVAC systems, windows and more.

Our agricultural members saved 56,176 kWh of electricity in 2022, and our commercial and industrial members saved 4,845,848 kWh with efficiency improvements to their businesses.

$439,121 in Rebates Paid

In addition to saving energy, members received cash rebates for their efficiency upgrades in 2022.

$337 Saved on Rx

With Benton REA’s Co-op Connections Card, members received an average 68% off the retail price of their prescriptions in 2022.