20.4%below
the national average of 18.44¢/kWh
Electricity Rates in Montana (May 2026)
The average residential rate is 14.67¢/kWh — that's about $102/month for a typical household.
#13out of 51 states (1 = cheapest)
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration. Data as of May 2026.
$102/mo
based on 693 kWh average monthly usage
13.9%up
over the past 12 months
Rates by Sector
| Sector | Rate (¢/kWh) | vs National | Avg Monthly Usage | Avg Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | 14.67¢/kWh | -20.4% | 693 kWh | $102 |
| Commercial | 13.24¢/kWh | — | 2,828 kWh | $375 |
| Industrial | 6.97¢/kWh | — | 26,739 kWh | $1,863 |
| National Average | 18.44¢/kWh | — | 736 kWh | $136 |
Electricity Providers in Montana
Type | Service | Service Area | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Carbon, Flathead, Lake, Lincoln, Park, Sanders+3 moreless | ||||||
Big Horn, Carbon, Musselshell, Stillwater, Treasure, Yellowstone+3 moreless | ||||||
Custer, Daniels, Dawson, Fallon, McCone, Prairie, Richland, Roosevelt, Rosebud, Sheridan, Wibaux+8 moreless | ||||||
Flathead, Lake, Missoula, Sanders+1 moreless | ||||||
Granite, Lake, Mineral, Missoula, Powell, Ravalli+3 moreless | ||||||
Blaine, Cascade, Chouteau, Fergus, Golden Valley, Judith Basin, Meagher, Musselshell, Petroleum, Stillwater, Sweet Grass, Treasure, Wheatland, Yellowstone+11 moreless | ||||||
Lincoln, Sanders | ||||||
Dawson, Richland, Roosevelt | ||||||
Gallatin |
Utility data from EIA Form 861, 2024
How Deregulated Electricity Works in Montana
Montana deregulated its electricity market in 1997. The system operates with three components: power companies generate electricity (generation), utilities maintain high-voltage lines (transmission), and your local utility (NorthWestern Energy LLC - (MT), Montana-Dakota Utilities Co) delivers electricity to your home (distribution).
Residential electricity choice in Montana is limited; most households receive default service through their local utility at a regulated rate.
How to Switch Electricity Companies in Montana
- 1Review your current contract terms and check for early termination fees
- 2Compare available rates from 9 suppliers serving your area
- 3Choose a plan and sign a Letter of Authorization
- 4Your new supplier handles the transfer with your utility (NorthWestern Energy LLC - (MT), Montana-Dakota Utilities Co) — your service is not interrupted
- 5Your new rate takes effect in the next billing cycle
When is the Best Time to Switch Energy Providers in Montana
The best times to switch providers in Montana typically include:
- Before peak seasons (winter) when you can lock in lower rates
- When your current contract is nearing expiration
- During off-peak months when providers offer competitive promotions
- After comparing rates during market downturns
Types of Electricity Plans in Montana
Fixed-rate plans
Consistent rates throughout your contract term, making budgeting easier. Early termination fees may apply.
Green energy plans
Power your home with 100% renewable sources while supporting clean energy goals.
Time-of-use plans
Different rates based on when you use electricity, with lower costs during off-peak hours.
Variable-rate / prepaid plans
Flexibility without long-term commitments, though rates may fluctuate monthly based on market conditions.
Power Outages in Montana
353 customers currently without power in Montana
Frequently Asked Questions
The average residential electricity rate in Montana is 14.67¢ per kWh. Commercial customers pay an average of 13.24¢ per kWh and industrial customers pay 6.97¢ per kWh.