Electricity Rates in Connecticut (2026)
National average: 16.72¢/kWh · Source: EIA, January 2026
Connecticut Has the Second-Highest Rates in the Continental U.S.
At 29.35 cents/kWh, Connecticut's electricity is nearly double the national average. The primary drivers are high natural gas prices in New England (pipeline capacity constraints), expensive transmission infrastructure, and a deregulated retail market where generation costs are passed through to consumers. Eversource and United Illuminating are the two main utilities, and both charge distribution rates that are among the highest in the country.
Pipeline Constraints Keep New England Gas Prices High
New England has limited natural gas pipeline capacity, and in winter, gas demand for heating competes with gas demand for electricity generation. This supply constraint drives electricity prices up precisely when demand is highest. Connecticut has been pursuing solutions including solar, offshore wind, battery storage, and energy efficiency programs, but the fundamental pipeline bottleneck persists.
Calculate Any Appliance Cost in Connecticut
Most Expensive Appliances to Run in Connecticut
Monthly costs at 29.35¢/kWh using typical wattage and hours:
| Appliance | Watts | Hrs/Day | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tankless Water Heater | 27000W | 1h | $237.74 |
| Electric Furnace | 10000W | 8h | $704.4 |
| Electric Car Charger (Level 2) | 7200W | 4h | $253.58 |
| Hot Tub | 6000W | 4h | $211.32 |
| Clothes Dryer | 5000W | 1h | $44.02 |
| Electric Water Heater | 4500W | 3h | $118.87 |
| Garage Workshop Heater | 4000W | 4h | $140.88 |
| Central Air Conditioner | 3500W | 8h | $246.54 |
| Electric Oven | 2500W | 1h | $22.01 |
| Dishwasher | 1800W | 1h | $15.85 |
| Hair Dryer | 1800W | 0.15h | $2.38 |
| Electric Pressure Washer | 1800W | 0.5h | $7.92 |
| Space Heater | 1500W | 8h | $105.66 |
| Electric Baseboard Heater | 1500W | 8h | $105.66 |
| Infrared Heater | 1500W | 6h | $79.24 |
Tips for Reducing Your Electricity Bill in Connecticut
- At 29 cents/kWh, every efficiency improvement has nearly double the payback compared to the national average. Prioritize insulation, air sealing, and heat pump upgrades.
- Connecticut offers robust energy efficiency programs through Energize CT. Rebates cover insulation, heat pumps, smart thermostats, and appliance upgrades. Use them aggressively.
- Solar payback periods in Connecticut are 6-8 years due to the high rate. If you own your home, solar is one of the best investments available.
- Connecticut allows residential customers to choose their electricity supplier. Shopping for a competitive generation rate on EnergizeCT.com can save 1-3 cents/kWh.
Frequently Asked Questions About Connecticut Electricity
Three factors: limited natural gas pipeline capacity into New England drives high fuel costs, expensive transmission infrastructure across the region, and high utility distribution charges. Connecticut also has significant renewable energy mandates that add costs through Renewable Energy Certificates. The combination puts Connecticut among the three most expensive states for electricity.
The average Connecticut household pays about $175-$220 per month. Despite lower-than-average consumption (Connecticut homes tend to be smaller and newer than the national average), the high per-kWh rate pushes total bills well above the national average. Winter bills can spike further when electric heating supplements gas or oil heat.
Yes. Connecticut has a deregulated retail market where you can choose your generation supplier while your distribution utility (Eversource or UI) handles delivery. Compare offers at EnergizeCT.com. Be cautious of introductory teaser rates that increase after the initial period.
Compare Neighboring Rates
See how Connecticut compares to other states in the New England region:
Maine
22.87¢/kWh
Massachusetts
28.76¢/kWh
New Hampshire
25.34¢/kWh
Rhode Island
27.12¢/kWh
Vermont
21.34¢/kWh
Electricity rate data sourced from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), average residential retail price, last updated January 2026. Your actual rate depends on your utility, plan, and usage tier. See our full disclaimer.