What to know about electricity rates in Pennsylvania
- The average Pennsylvania electricity rate is 17.87 cents per kWh while the average national rate is 16.82 cents
- The cheapest electricity rate is 10.78 cents per kWh for Pennsylvania residents
- Pennsylvania's deregulated electricity market includes 117 providers
Best Pennsylvania electricity rates
Pennsylvania electricity rates range from 10.78 cents to 23.85 cents per kWh. The rates you find vary depending on the providers and plans available to you, and comparing companies is the best way to find better rates. Below are some rates from popular electric companies in Pennsylvania.
What is the cheapest electricity company in Pennsylvania?
| Rank | Provider | Service | Rate (c/kWh) | Customers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | West Penn Power | Delivery | 5.41 | 148,722 |
| 2 | Penn Power | Delivery | 6.69 | 36,920 |
| 3 | FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Co | Delivery | 7.02 | 445,216 |
| 4 | Metropolitan Edison Company | Delivery | 7.07 | 135,718 |
| 5 | New Wave Energy Corporation | Energy | 8.77 | 3,898 |
| 6 | UGI Energy Services | Energy | 8.83 | 4,345 |
| 7 | Santanna Energy Services | Energy | 9.58 | 4,640 |
| 8 | Pennsylvania Electric Company | Delivery | 9.68 | 123,857 |
| 9 | Discount Energy Group | Energy | 9.68 | 6,551 |
| 10 | WGL Energy | Energy | 9.72 | 29,607 |
Because Pennsylvania has a deregulated electricity market, you have the flexibility to shop around for a cheaper electricity bill. Many states don't offer this choice. If you're looking to reduce your energy bill, consider switching to a different provider or plan. Pennsylvania electricity providers offer different types of plans for residents and businesses to satisfy a range of needs.
Average cost of electricity in Pennsylvania
According to our data, the average electricity rate in Pennsylvania is 17.87 cents per kWh. This equates to an average residential bill of $145.72 per month. The national average rate is 16.82 cents per kWh, and Pennsylvania ranks as the 36th lowest priced state in the nation.
| Rate | Usage | Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Average | 17.87c | 816 kWh | $145.72 |
| United States Average | 16.82c | 875 kWh | $147.24 |
Since the average price is 17.87 cents per kWh or $145.72 per month for residential electricity, prices lower than these can be considered affordable. Electricity rates in Pennsylvania depend on your home size and usage, so the kWh rate is more useful when comparing your rate to the average.
Best electricity plans
In Pennsylvania, the best electricity plans provide competitive rates, renewable energy options, and fixed or variable pricing. Top providers offer reliability, transparency, and customer incentives so you can save money and enjoy responsive support.
We've analyzed the prices, terms, and conditions of popular Pennsylvania electricity plans. Below are our picks for the best residential plans in the state.
| Provider | Contract Term | Rate | Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
18 months | 8.19¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 8.29¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 8.39¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 8.40¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 8.49¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 8.65¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 8.69¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 8.69¢ /kWh | ||
36 months | 8.69¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 8.79¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 8.80¢ /kWh | ||
36 months | 8.80¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 8.89¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 8.99¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 8.99¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 8.99¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 8.99¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 9.03¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 9.09¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 9.19¢ /kWh | ||
| See All Plans | |||
Compare Pennsylvania electricity providers
There are 117 electricity providers in Pennsylvania. While some providers only serve specific areas, you have multiple options for electricity wherever you are. Different providers can offer different specials, plan types, and sales throughout the year. However, always read the fine print of the energy plans you consider to avoid hidden penalties.
Residential electricity providers in Pennsylvania
| Provider | Service Type | Rate (c/kWh) | Rate State Rank | Bill | Bill State Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Penn Power | Delivery | 5.41 | 1 | $50.42 | 1 |
| Penn Power | Delivery | 6.69 | 2 | $61.61 | 3 |
| FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Electric Co | Delivery | 7.02 | 3 | $61.53 | 2 |
| Metropolitan Edison Company | Delivery | 7.07 | 4 | $65.79 | 5 |
| New Wave Energy Corporation | Energy | 8.77 | 5 | $97.63 | 26 |
| UGI Energy Services | Energy | 8.83 | 6 | $63.26 | 4 |
| Santanna Energy Services | Energy | 9.58 | 7 | $150.01 | 101 |
| Pennsylvania Electric Company | Delivery | 9.68 | 8 | $70.37 | 6 |
| Discount Energy Group | Energy | 9.68 | 9 | $99.78 | 28 |
| WGL Energy | Energy | 9.72 | 10 | $75.04 | 7 |
Showing 10 of 117 providers
Business electricity rates in Pennsylvania
Commercial rates are typically cheaper than residential rates in Pennsylvania because businesses consume much more energy than homes on average. Businesses basically get a volume discount on electricity since they use so much. Our data shows the average business in Pennsylvania pays 15.31 cents per kWh for electricity and has an average bill of $251.92 per month.
| Rate | Usage | Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania Average | 15.31c | 1,645 kWh | $251.92 |
| United States Average | 12.43c | 5,742 kWh | $713.88 |
Finding ways to reduce overhead costs is essential as a business owner. You have the opportunity to do that in a deregulated electricity market. Even reducing your electricity by one or two cents per kWh can make a huge difference when you have a high monthly bill. Compare commercial electricity rates to find the plan that makes the most sense for your business.
Best commercial electricity plans
Below are the top commercial electricity plans in Pennsylvania.
| Provider | Contract Term | Rate | Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
3 months | 6.351¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 6.385¢ /kWh | ||
2 months | 6.581¢ /kWh | ||
5 months | 6.762¢ /kWh | ||
1 months | 6.849¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 7.007¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 7.112¢ /kWh | ||
3 months | 7.130¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 7.172¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 7.177¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 7.233¢ /kWh | ||
3 months | 7.245¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 7.258¢ /kWh | ||
3 months | 7.268¢ /kWh | ||
3 months | 7.271¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 7.288¢ /kWh | ||
2 months | 7.304¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 7.323¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 7.337¢ /kWh | ||
3 months | 7.340¢ /kWh | ||
| See All Plans | |||
How to switch Pennsylvania electricity companies
Wondering how to make the switch to a new electricity supplier in Pennsylvania? The process is easy.
To switch suppliers:
- Compare rates using the Price to Compare (PTC) from your current utility
- Select a supplier and review their contract terms carefully
- Wait for the three-day Right of Rescission period
- Your new supplier will notify both your old supplier and your utility
- Expect verification by mail from your local utility
The switch typically takes effect within three business days after utility notification, though it can extend to eight weeks.
When is the best time to switch energy providers in Pennsylvania?
The best times to switch are during spring (late March to early May) and fall (late September to Halloween) when energy demand is lower.
To maximize your savings:
- Switch during moderate weather seasons when suppliers compete more aggressively for customers
- Avoid peak summer and winter months when energy prices typically surge
- Research rates using our comparison tools before making your decision
How deregulated electricity works in Pennsylvania
Since Pennsylvania deregulated its electricity market in 1996, you've had the power to choose your electricity supplier rather than being limited to a single utility company. This change aimed to reduce rates that were 15% above the national average.
Here's how it works:
- Your local utility still delivers electricity and maintains power lines
- PJM Interconnection manages the wholesale market across 13 states
- You can select from multiple suppliers to find better rates
- The PA Public Utility Commission oversees the market and protects consumers
The system has proven successful, with nearly 30% of customers switching providers and saving on their energy bills.
Types of electricity plans in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania residents can choose from four distinct types of electricity plans, each offering unique advantages based on individual needs and preferences.
- Fixed Rate Plans lock in your supply rate for 6-36 months, providing predictable bills but may include early termination fees.
- Variable Rate Plans adjust monthly based on market conditions, offering flexibility without cancellation fees but higher risk during peak times.
- Renewable Energy Plans source power from solar, wind, and other sustainable sources, supporting environmental goals with potential premium charges.
- Unlimited Usage Plans charge a flat monthly rate regardless of consumption, though you'll still pay separate distribution fees from your utility company.
Compare Pennsylvania electricity rates
Compare Pennsylvania electricity rates to save money and avoid overpaying in the deregulated market. Your bill can vary greatly depending on the provider and plan structure. Take the time to read the fine print and do the math to figure out which is your best option.
Pennsylvania electricity rates vs other states
Electricity rates for the biggest cities in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania electricity rate FAQs
In Pennsylvania, a good electricity rate falls between 17 cents to 19 cents per kWh. Tired of high bills? Shop during spring and fall to lock in lower prices before HVAC use spikes in the summer or winter.
Pennsylvania electricity rates currently average 17.87 cents per kWh, but you'll likely pay between 16 to 20 cents depending on your provider, location, and plan type.
Your Pennsylvania electric bill is high due to fixed charges, heating costs, and infrastructure fees. Customers pay more when using power during peak hours, and default utility rates may exceed competitive supplier prices.
Electricity rates fluctuate due to energy demand, fuel costs, grid infrastructure, and regulatory policies. While short-term declines may occur, long-term trends often show increases due to inflation, grid modernization, and shifts to renewable energy.