electricity

Oregon State University is studying what could be the next big thing in organic farming; electricity.

It might be the first thing you think of when you hear the word cooperative, as in a cooperative business; Rural Electric Cooperatives.    “Other entities just didn't want to go into rural America and provide the power,” noted Andy Burke, administrators of the USDA’s Rural Utility Service.  “So, President Roosevelt ...

In late September, the U.S. Department of Energy announced a study looking at meeting electrical needs in the event that the four lower Snake River dams were removed.  This news comes of the heals of a variety of studies and proposal looking at removing the dams that are so important to the farming community across the Northwest, and across the nation.  Michell...

It looks like these cold temperatures aren’t going anywhere anytime soon, so it’s important to make sure your home and your operation are as energy efficient as possible.  Tom Gaunt with Pacific Power said there are a few things you can do to keep your electric bill under control.  He suggests caulkin...

The Department of Agriculture this week announced $121 million in funding for “critical infrastructure” to combat climate change in rural America.  The investments include $111 million for 289 projects to help people living in socially vulnerable communities.      “Rural Am...

Many in the farming community, including Representative Dan Newhouse, said the opposition against the Snake River dams has become more intense as of recent. The Chair of the Western Caucus points out that Washington Governor Jay Inslee, Washington senator Patty Murray, and the White House have stepped up their pressure on breaching the dams ...

The application deadline for the Rural Energy for America Program, or REAP, is quickly approaching on March 31. The REAP program is designed to help rural businesses and farmers to purchase or install renewable energy systems or make energy efficiency improvements ...

The Chelan PUD is inviting winery owners to tap into the energy efficiency program for lighting and equipment to cut operating and maintenance costs. Chelan PUD commercial energy advisor, Scott Stanford, said they will assist with the purchase and installation of energy saving lighting, indoor and outdoor, and controls. ...

Starting on January 1st, irrigators in Oregon’s Klamath and Lost River Basins saw a 3.5% reduction in power costs. The Klamath Water Users Association, said this is welcomed news, since the Oregon Public Utility Commission approved a 10% increase in base rates for irrigators in February. “ ...

Yakama Power was one of 82 agencies receiving loans from the USDA to help improve electrical projects.   The utility received just under $31 million to build or improve 574 miles of line along with making other system improvements.  ...