Benton REA is proud to share the exciting news that $1 million for our Wildfire Resilience Project has been included in the 2025–2027 Washington State Capital Budget. This important funding will play a critical role in enhancing the safety, reliability and resilience of Benton REA’s electric system, particularly in wildfire-prone areas of our 620-square-mile
service territory.
Benton REA appreciates the Washington State Legislature for recognizing the importance of this project, as well as the many lawmakers who support efforts that impact the cooperative’s members.
In particular, we thank Sen. Matt Boehnke, who secured an amendment in the Senate to increase the project funding to match the House allocation, and Rep. Stephanie Barnard, who championed the project in the House of Representatives. Their leadership and advocacy were instrumental in awarding this funding.
Benton REA is working to complete all requirements associated with receiving state funds. The cooperative is on track to execute a contract with the Washington State Department of Commerce later this year, enabling access the funds within the 2025 calendar year.
This phase of the Wildfire Resilience Project focuses on replacing aging oil circuit reclosers with more modern vacuum circuit reclosers.
Vacuum circuit reclosers use a vacuum, instead of oil as an insulating and arc-extinguishing medium, which eliminates the risk of oil leaks and the associated environmental hazards. They also operate faster and more precisely, enabling targeted grid section shutdowns during faults or in high wildfire risk conditions—significantly reducing the likelihood of fire ignition.
In addition, vacuum circuit reclosers can be integrated with advanced grid technologies, improving remote monitoring and control capabilities, which means fewer and shorter outages for members.
The $1 million grant will help Benton REA offset project costs that would otherwise need to be funded by our members. By leveraging state funds, we can accelerate the replacement of aging equipment, improve wildfire resilience, and enhance service reliability—all while reducing the financial impact on the cooperative’s membership.
Benton REA is grateful for this opportunity to partner with the state of Washington in making critical investments that will protect lives, property and the electric infrastructure our communities depend on.
