Electricity Rates in District of Columbia (2026)
National average: 16.72¢/kWh · Source: EIA, January 2026
D.C.'s Urban Density Keeps Distribution Costs Manageable
At 15.87 cents/kWh, the District of Columbia's rate is close to the national average. Pepco (a subsidiary of Exelon) is the sole distribution utility. D.C.'s compact urban footprint means distribution infrastructure serves a dense customer base, spreading costs more efficiently than in rural areas. The District imports all of its electricity from the PJM grid.
Ambitious Climate Goals Push Toward Electrification
D.C. has committed to 100% renewable electricity by 2032, one of the most aggressive timelines in the country. The District is pursuing this primarily through renewable energy credit purchases and long-term contracts with out-of-state solar and wind projects. These commitments add modest costs to ratepayers but reflect the District's strong policy priority on climate action.
Calculate Any Appliance Cost in District of Columbia
Most Expensive Appliances to Run in District of Columbia
Monthly costs at 15.87¢/kWh using typical wattage and hours:
| Appliance | Watts | Hrs/Day | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tankless Water Heater | 27000W | 1h | $128.55 |
| Electric Furnace | 10000W | 8h | $380.88 |
| Electric Car Charger (Level 2) | 7200W | 4h | $137.12 |
| Hot Tub | 6000W | 4h | $114.26 |
| Clothes Dryer | 5000W | 1h | $23.81 |
| Electric Water Heater | 4500W | 3h | $64.27 |
| Garage Workshop Heater | 4000W | 4h | $76.18 |
| Central Air Conditioner | 3500W | 8h | $133.31 |
| Electric Oven | 2500W | 1h | $11.9 |
| Dishwasher | 1800W | 1h | $8.57 |
| Hair Dryer | 1800W | 0.15h | $1.29 |
| Electric Pressure Washer | 1800W | 0.5h | $4.28 |
| Space Heater | 1500W | 8h | $57.13 |
| Electric Baseboard Heater | 1500W | 8h | $57.13 |
| Infrared Heater | 1500W | 6h | $42.85 |
Tips for Reducing Your Electricity Bill in District of Columbia
- DC Sustainable Energy Utility (DCSEU) offers rebates on heat pumps, insulation, efficient appliances, and solar installations.
- D.C. allows retail electricity choice. Compare competitive supplier offers through Pepco's website.
- In a rental apartment, you can still save by choosing an efficient electricity supplier, using LED bulbs, and managing thermostat settings. You do not need to own to benefit from efficiency.
- D.C.'s row house architecture means shared walls reduce heating and cooling costs. Interior units are the most efficient.
Frequently Asked Questions About District of Columbia Electricity
The average D.C. household pays about $100-$140 per month. Many D.C. residents live in apartments and condos with smaller square footage than suburban homes, which keeps consumption lower. Gas heating is common, so the electricity bill is often a secondary energy expense.
Yes, and D.C. has some of the strongest solar incentives in the country. Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs) in D.C. are worth more than in most states because of the District's aggressive renewable mandate. Combined with the federal tax credit, rooftop solar in D.C. can have a payback period of just 4-6 years. Even row houses with limited roof space can benefit.
Compare Neighboring Rates
See how District of Columbia compares to other states in the Mid-Atlantic region:
Delaware
15.24¢/kWh
Maryland
16.12¢/kWh
New Jersey
18.76¢/kWh
New York
22.87¢/kWh
Pennsylvania
16.87¢/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.