What to know about electricity rates in Rhode Island
- The average Rhode Island electricity rate is 28.63 cents per kWh while the average national rate is 16.82 cents
- The cheapest electricity rate is 13.85 cents per kWh for Rhode Island residents
- Rhode Island's deregulated electricity market includes 12 providers
Best Rhode Island electricity rates
Rhode Island electricity rates range from 13.85 cents to 37.13 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 Rhode Island.
What is the cheapest electricity company in Rhode Island?
| Rank | Provider | Service | Rate (c/kWh) | Customers |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | NextEra Energy | Energy | 11.51 | 96,720 |
| 2 | Direct Energy | Energy | 13.51 | 2,893 |
| 3 | First Point Power | Energy | 13.54 | 3,204 |
| 4 | Pascoag Electric Utility | Bundled | 17.58 | 4,997 |
| 5 | Town Square Energy | Energy | 19.56 | 4,537 |
| 6 | Viridian Energy | Energy | 19.65 | 364 |
| 7 | North American Power | Energy | 19.94 | 2,991 |
| 8 | SmartEnergy Holdings | Energy | 21.59 | 8,983 |
| 9 | Ambit Energy | Energy | 22.16 | 1,388 |
| 10 | Rhode Island Energy (Narragansett Electirc Co) | Bundled | 28.60 | 375,501 |
Because Rhode Island 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. Rhode Island electricity providers offer different types of plans for residents and businesses to satisfy a range of needs.
Average cost of electricity in Rhode Island
According to our data, the average electricity rate in Rhode Island is 28.63 cents per kWh. This equates to an average residential bill of $160.02 per month. The national average rate is 16.82 cents per kWh, and Rhode Island ranks as the 49th lowest priced state in the nation.
| Rate | Usage | Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Average | 28.63c | 559 kWh | $160.02 |
| United States Average | 16.82c | 875 kWh | $147.24 |
Since the average price is 28.63 cents per kWh or $160.02 per month for residential electricity, prices lower than these can be considered affordable. Electricity rates in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island, 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 Rhode Island electricity plans. Below are our picks for the best residential plans in the state.
Compare Rhode Island electricity providers
There are 12 electricity providers in Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island
| Provider | Service Type | Rate (c/kWh) | Rate State Rank | Bill | Bill State Rank |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NextEra Energy | Energy | 11.51 | 1 | $66.00 | 1 |
| Direct Energy | Energy | 13.51 | 2 | $126.25 | 4 |
| First Point Power | Energy | 13.54 | 3 | $113.49 | 2 |
| Pascoag Electric Utility | Bundled | 17.58 | 4 | $120.42 | 3 |
| Town Square Energy | Energy | 19.56 | 5 | $137.31 | 5 |
| Viridian Energy | Energy | 19.65 | 6 | $179.09 | 9 |
| North American Power | Energy | 19.94 | 7 | $189.68 | 10 |
| SmartEnergy Holdings | Energy | 21.59 | 8 | $150.85 | 8 |
| Ambit Energy | Energy | 22.16 | 9 | $204.49 | 11 |
| Rhode Island Energy (Narragansett Electirc Co) | Bundled | 28.60 | 10 | $148.37 | 6 |
Showing 10 of 12 providers
Business electricity rates in Rhode Island
Commercial rates are typically cheaper than residential rates in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island pays 26.27 cents per kWh for electricity and has an average bill of $464.29 per month.
| Rate | Usage | Bill | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Average | 26.27c | 1,768 kWh | $464.29 |
| 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 Rhode Island.
| Provider | Contract Term | Rate | Plan |
|---|---|---|---|
3 months | 7.454¢ /kWh | ||
3 months | 7.603¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 9.063¢ /kWh | ||
4 months | 9.324¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 9.979¢ /kWh | ||
12 months | 10.182¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 10.671¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 10.709¢ /kWh | ||
36 months | 10.803¢ /kWh | ||
30 months | 10.862¢ /kWh | ||
18 months | 10.912¢ /kWh | ||
24 months | 10.924¢ /kWh | ||
36 months | 11.018¢ /kWh | ||
15 months | 11.055¢ /kWh | ||
30 months | 11.093¢ /kWh | ||
14 months | 11.126¢ /kWh | ||
5 months | 11.300¢ /kWh | ||
16 months | 11.309¢ /kWh | ||
13 months | 11.346¢ /kWh | ||
15 months | 11.380¢ /kWh | ||
| See All Plans | |||
How to switch Rhode Island electricity companies
Three simple steps can help you switch your Rhode Island electricity provider while taking advantage of the state's deregulated market.
First, review your current contract terms with your existing supplier to check for any termination fees.
Next, compare available suppliers and rates through comparison sites like ours, focusing on contract length and rate stability.
Finally, sign a letter of authorization with your chosen supplier to initiate the switch.
The changeover is seamless, as your utility company (like National Grid) continues handling distribution while your new supplier manages the supply portion.
You'll see changes reflected on your bill after the next meter reading.
When is the best time to switch energy providers in Rhode Island?
Choosing the ideal time to switch providers involves multiple factors. Spring typically offers the best conditions for switching, as electric supply prices tend to drop during this season.
Watch for these key timing indicators:
- Winter-to-spring changes when rates decrease for residential customers
- Before announced regulatory changes take effect
- When your current contract is nearing expiration
- During periods of market stability
- Before winter rate increases from Rhode Island Energy
Consider your customer classification, as residential, commercial, and industrial rates follow different adjustment schedules.
How deregulated electricity works in Rhode Island
Understanding Rhode Island's electricity rates starts with its deregulated market structure, which has been in place since 1997. Under this system, you can choose between competitive suppliers or stay with your default utility provider.
The system operates through three main components:
- Distribution: Your local utility company manages power lines and infrastructure
- Supply: You'll select either a competitive supplier or standard utility rate
- Grid Management: ISO-NE oversees the regional power grid and wholesale markets
While you can shop for competitive rates, you'll still receive one bill from your distribution company. They'll handle delivery charges, while your chosen supplier's rate appears under "Supplier Services."
Types of electricity plans in Rhode Island
You have four main plan options:
- Fixed-rate plans lock in your rate for 6-36 months, providing predictable monthly bills.
- Variable-rate plans adjust monthly with market prices, offering flexibility without long-term commitments.
- Time-of-Use plans charge different rates based on peak and off-peak hours.
- Renewable energy plans source power from sustainable resources like wind and solar.
Compare Rhode Island electricity rates
Compare Rhode Island 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.
Rhode Island electricity rates vs other states
Rhode Island electricity rate FAQs
In Rhode Island, a good electricity rate falls between 28 cents to 30 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.
Rhode Island electricity rates currently average 28.63 cents per kWh, but you'll likely pay between 27 to 31 cents depending on your provider, location, and plan type.
Your Rhode Island electricity costs are high because the region heavily relies on expensive natural gas. Customers pay high rates because of limited energy infrastructure and strict renewable requirements.
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.