Ruralite

Good cybersecurity does not require an IT degree, a cape, or the ability to speak like a computer wizard. In fact, these three simple safety habits can dramatically reduce the chances of becoming a victim of cybercrime. Whether you’re checking email, shopping online, managing family finances or accessing your SmartHub account, a few practical steps […]

It seems nowadays that when the topic of politics comes up in any group, the collective blood pressure rises and the group attention level drops, and yet, here I go again. Please hang in there with me, because the impact of state and federal government policy on Northwest electric utilities has never been greater, or […]

Simple Ways to Stay Warm and Save Money this Winter October is Energy Awareness Month, and it arrives just as cooler mornings and windy fall days start reminding us that winter is not far away. Before the first hard cold snap, take a little time to look over your home and make sure the heat […]

Following a thorough review of all 29 applications, Columbia REA’s 2025 MPT Grant funds will be presented to two local non-profit organizations with a tightly focused mission

Each year, Columbia REA recognizes one staff member as the Power Player of the Year. This honor is awarded to the employee who best understands and supports Columbia REA’s vision and values; incorporates that vision when planning, generates enthusiasm and embodies the Seven Cooperative Principles of Voluntary and Open membership.

Few topics are generating more discussion in communities across the Northwest, and right here in our backyard, than data centers. Supporters point to new jobs, tax revenue, and economic growth, while others have questions about water use

How is your old air conditioner holding up through another eastern Washington summer? If your system is struggling, running constantly or needing frequent repairs, it may be using more energy than necessary. For rural customers, where service calls can take extra time and travel, replacing an aging system with the right equipment can improve comfort, reliability and monthly energy costs.

In the electricity world, a connector helps bring power from the source to the end user. In our Connectors feature, we introduce you to your real-life Columbia REA Connectors, our staff.

26 years ago, Columbia iConnect was launched with pretty much the same mission as Columbia REA carried with it six decades earlier: Fast, reliable service backed by people who live and work in the same communities they serve. In other words, fill the void left by the big national brands who made all their decisions based on dollars, which left rural residents out in the cold.

Wildfire season is here. Columbia REA takes fire safety very seriously. One of the key steps we take is placing our equipment in Fire Safety Mode, known in the industry as “one-shot” operation. This setting helps reduce the risk of ignition from electrical arcs or sparks.