58.8%above
the national average of 18.83¢/kWh
Electricity Rates in Rhode Island (March 2026)
The average residential rate is 29.91¢/kWh — that's about $157/month for a typical household.
#46out of 51 states (1 = cheapest)
Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration. Data as of March 2026.
$157/mo
based on 523 kWh average monthly usage
7.4%down
over the past 12 months
Rates by Sector
| Sector | Rate (¢/kWh) | vs National | Avg Monthly Usage | Avg Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | 29.91¢/kWh | +58.8% | 523 kWh | $157 |
| Commercial | 23.44¢/kWh | — | 4,514 kWh | $1,058 |
| Industrial | 17.13¢/kWh | — | 25,903 kWh | $4,436 |
| National Average | 18.83¢/kWh | — | 748 kWh | $141 |
Electricity Providers in Rhode Island
Type | Service | Service Area | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Bristol, Kent, Newport, Providence, Washington+2 moreless | ||||||
— | ||||||
— | ||||||
— | ||||||
— | ||||||
Providence | ||||||
— | ||||||
— | ||||||
— | ||||||
Washington |
Utility data from EIA Form 861, 2024
How Deregulated Electricity Works in Rhode Island
Rhode Island deregulated its electricity market in 1996. The system operates with three components: power companies generate electricity (generation), utilities maintain high-voltage lines (transmission), and your local utility (The Narragansett Electric Co) delivers electricity to your home (distribution).
You can choose your electricity supplier from 16 competing providers. If you don't select a supplier, you automatically receive default service through your utility at a regulated rate.
How to Switch Electricity Companies in Rhode Island
- 1Review your current contract terms and check for early termination fees
- 2Compare available rates from 16 suppliers serving your area
- 3Choose a plan and sign a Letter of Authorization
- 4Your new supplier handles the transfer with your utility (The Narragansett Electric 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 Rhode Island
The best times to switch providers in Rhode Island typically include:
- Before peak seasons (summer) 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 Rhode Island
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 Rhode Island
11 customers currently without power in Rhode Island
Frequently Asked Questions
The average residential electricity rate in Rhode Island is 29.91¢ per kWh. Commercial customers pay an average of 23.44¢ per kWh and industrial customers pay 17.13¢ per kWh.