Electricity Rates in Rhode Island
Average residential electricity cost, utility comparison, and solar savings potential for Rhode Island homeowners.
Rhode Island Electricity Cost Overview
The average residential electricity rate in Rhode Island is $0.24 per kWh, which is 50% above the national average of $0.16/kWh.Rhode Island homeowners pay an average of $189 per month for electricity, based on typical usage of 789 kWh per month.
Electricity rates in this state have been trending upward over the past decade, following national patterns of rising energy costs. As rates continue to increase, solar panels become an increasingly attractive way for homeowners to lock in their energy costs and achieve long-term savings.
Major Electric Utilities in Rhode Island
| Utility Company | Avg Rate ($/kWh) | Customers | Est. Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Energy | $0.24 | 490K | $189 |
| Block Island Power Company | $0.25 | 1K | $197 |
| Pascoag Utility District | $0.22 | 5K | $174 |
Compare & Shop Electricity Rates in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has a deregulated electricity market. This means residents can choose their electricity supplier and shop for the cheapest rates available. Your local utility still delivers power to your home, but you pick who generates it — and at what price.
How to Find the Lowest Rates in Rhode Island
- Compare suppliers: Visit Rhode Island's Public Utilities Commission website for approved electricity suppliers and current rate offers.
- Fixed vs. variable rates: Fixed-rate plans protect you from price spikes. Variable rates may start lower but fluctuate with the market.
- Check contract terms: Watch for early termination fees, promotional rates that increase, and monthly service charges.
- Consider solar: Rather than switching suppliers year after year, solar panels generate electricity at a fixed cost for 25+ years — often the cheapest long-term option.
The current average rate in Rhode Island is $0.24/kWh. By comparing suppliers or going solar, many Rhode Island homeowners cut their monthly bill from $189 to under $57 per month.
How Solar Compares to Rhode Island Electricity Rates
Without Solar
- Monthly bill: $189
- Annual cost: $2,268
- 25-year cost: $56,700
- Rate trend: Rising 2-5% annually
With Solar
- Monthly savings: $151
- Annual savings: $1,812
- 25-year savings: $36,000
- Rate: Locked in for 25+ years
Electricity Rates FAQ - Rhode Island
The average residential electricity rate in Rhode Island is $0.24 per kilowatt-hour (kWh), which is 50% above the national average of $0.16/kWh. The average monthly electric bill is approximately $189.
With solar panels, Rhode Island homeowners can reduce their electricity costs by approximately 80%, saving around $151 per month or $36,000 over 25 years. The 30% federal tax credit further reduces the upfront cost.
The largest electric utilities in Rhode Island include Rhode Island Energy, Block Island Power Company, Pascoag Utility District. Rates vary between utilities, so your exact cost depends on your provider and usage.
Yes, electricity rates in Rhode Island have been increasing over time, following national trends of 2-5% annual increases. This upward trend makes solar panels an increasingly attractive investment since they lock in your energy costs for 25+ years.
Get Your Free Solar Quote
No obligation • Compare top installers
Electricity Rates by City in Rhode Island
Solar in Nearby States
Ready to go solar?
Get free quotes from top installers in your area
Start Saving with Solar Today
Join thousands of homeowners who've switched to clean energy
Get Your Free Quote