Conservation Corner – February 2026 – Columbia Rural Electric Association

Supporting Sustainable Walla Walla University Campus Lighting

How Columbia Rural Electric Association (REA) Incentives Are Helping Make a Brighter, Greener Future Possible

Doug Case (right), Columbia REA’s Community Relations Manager, delivers a check for $142,185 to Prakash Ramoutar, VP for Financial Administration
at Walla Walla University.

In a significant step towards energy efficiency and sustainability, Columbia REA is proud to have provided incentives for upgrading all lighting across the campus of Walla Walla University. By partnering with the University, Honeywell Energy Solutions Group, and utilizing a Clean Buildings Performance Grant from Washington State, Columbia REA was able to help WWU secure the transition to advanced LED lighting systems. These new lights not only offer superior illumination but also dramatically reduce energy consumption.

The incentive program was designed to support institutions in adopting modern, energy-saving technologies. Through this project, the University was able to replace outdated fixtures with efficient lighting in classrooms, laboratories, dormitories, and common areas. These upgrades contribute to substantial cost savings on electricity bills.

The campus-wide lighting replacement effort is expected to yield more than $90,000 in energy and operational savings in the first year alone.

We believe that investing in energy-efficient solutions is essential for creating a brighter future. The University’s lighting upgrade, made possible through our incentive program and the State grant, stands as a testament to what can be achieved when utilities, educational institutions, efficiency engineers, and contractors work together for positive change.

Charlie DeSalvo, Energy Efficiency Specialist

If you have any questions about energy efficiency, email Charlie DeSalvo or call (509) 526-4041.

Conservation Corner – February 2026