Otis Singleton
As of March 2025, electric rates in Connecticut are on the rise, with Eversource, the state's largest energy provider, announcing plans for a rate increase. This development has sparked concerns among residents, as Connecticut already holds the third-highest electric rates in the nation. The rate hike, which took effect on January 1st, 2025, has resulted in a 20% increase for Eversource customers, now paying 11.19 cents per kilowatt-hour. This trend is expected to continue, with Eversource CT planning another rate increase in 2025. While the utility company cites the need to maintain the reliability of the electric grid and support infrastructure improvements, the rate hikes have drawn criticism and prompted discussions among lawmakers regarding accountability and the financial burden on consumers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Electricity rates in CT | Third-highest in the nation |
| Eversource and UI supply rates in 2024 winter | Expected to decrease |
| Eversource rate in 2025 | Expected to increase |
| United Illuminating rate in 2025 | Expected to increase |
| Eversource's reason for rate decrease in 2024 | More favorable global market |
| Eversource's reason for rate increase in 2025 | Grid modernization, rising energy costs, and regulation compliance |
| UI's reason for rate decrease in 2024 | NA |
| Discounts and assistance programs | Available for eligible customers |
Explore related products
What You'll Learn
Electric rates expected to decrease in 2024 winter season
Electric rates in Connecticut are expected to decrease in the 2024 winter season. This is good news for residents, as it will help offset the high costs of energy that have burdened the state. Eversource and UI supply rates are projected to drop from January through June 2024 compared to the same winter period in 2023. For Eversource customers, this means a significant reduction in their standard service residential monthly supply rate. Specifically, they will pay 14.7 cents per kilowatt-hour, a decrease from 24.1 cents during the previous winter season. This reduction translates to approximately a $46 monthly saving.
UI customers will also benefit from lower rates, paying 17.06 cents per kilowatt-hour in supply charges, down from 21.94 cents in the 2023 winter period. This decrease will result in about $34 in monthly savings compared to the same period last year. The more favorable global market conditions, particularly the lower prices of liquid natural gas, are cited as the main reasons for the decrease in rates.
However, it is important to note that even with the decrease, Eversource has stated that the proposed winter supply rates are still higher than they were two years ago. Additionally, this positive development comes amidst a backdrop of rising energy costs and criticism of utility companies and lawmakers for the high electricity rates in Connecticut, which ranks among the highest in the nation.
To help residents further, Eversource is introducing a new low-income discount rate starting on December 1, 2023. This program will provide a 10% or 50% discount on the total bill for eligible low-income households. Additionally, the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program offers support of up to $530 towards heating bills for those who qualify. Eversource also encourages customers to take control of their electric bills by comparing rates from third-party suppliers and exploring options to improve energy efficiency and reduce costs.
Electrical Repairs in Cape Coral: DIY or Not?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
$19.17 $44.99
Eversource proposes rate hike for 2024 winter
In November 2023, Eversource proposed a rate hike for the 2024 winter months in Connecticut. The proposed rate was 14.71 cents per kilowatt-hour, which was an increase from the current summer rate of 13.82 cents per kilowatt-hour. The rate hike was pending approval by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and would be in effect from January 1 to June 30, 2024. Eversource customers would pay 14.7 cents per kilowatt-hour compared to 24.1 cents during the same period in 2023, resulting in a 39% reduction in standard service residential monthly supply rates across the same winter period. This decrease was attributed to a more favourable global market, particularly in the liquid natural gas forward-looking market.
However, despite the proposed rate hike, Eversource also announced a new low-income discount rate starting on December 1, 2023. The discount offered 10% or 50% off the total bill for customers from low-income households. Additionally, through the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program, customers could receive up to $530 towards their heating bill by seeking assistance from their local community action agency.
In contrast to the proposed rate hike, Eversource's 2024 winter supply rates were expected to be higher than they were two years prior. This meant that even with the decrease in rates for the upcoming winter, customers would still be paying more than they had in recent years.
The proposed rate hike for the 2024 winter months in Connecticut by Eversource was a cause for concern for many residents, especially considering the already high cost of utility bills. While the company encouraged customers to compare rates from third-party suppliers and take advantage of available discount programs, the potential increase in rates during the winter months when energy usage is typically higher, could result in significant financial burden for many households.
Switching Energy Providers: How to Check Your Options
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Connecticut lawmakers meet to discuss high electric bill rates
Connecticut lawmakers have met to discuss the state's high electric bill rates and how to increase accountability within its energy system. With electric bills a pressing issue for residents, lawmakers are discussing potential solutions for lowering rates. Governor Ned Lamont and lawmakers from both parties say they are trying, but options are limited. Lamont has urged lawmakers to look beyond short-term fixes and explore long-term solutions, including reviewing the state's electricity generation sources and considering renewable energy options.
Tuesday's meeting focused on the issue of accountability, especially in the context of Connecticut's energy market. Lawmakers blasted utility companies Eversource and United Illuminating (owned by Avangrid) for making huge profits and not wanting to be held accountable. They also criticised the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) and its chairman, Marissa Gillett, for being under attack by these companies. PURA is the state authority that regulates utilities.
Lawmakers are also considering the "Ratepayers First Act", which is a statement of purpose rather than a solution. They are sifting through the many energy bills filed since the 2025 session opened. Some bills, including several by Republicans, would eliminate the public benefit charge, but it is unclear how this would be achieved. Lawmakers say lesser expenses could be eliminated or moved from ratepayers to taxpayers, but this would only mean marginal savings.
In the meantime, Eversource has announced a new low-income discount rate beginning in December 2023, offering a 10% or 50% discount to eligible customers. They also encourage customers to compare rates from third-party suppliers to "take control" of their electric bills. Eversource and UI supply rates are expected to decrease for the 2024 winter season, with costs approximately 39% lower than the same period in 2023.
The Electrical Mechanics of Hot Tubs Explained
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Eversource announces rate hike for 2025
Connecticut residents are facing higher electricity bills in 2025, as Eversource, the state's largest energy provider, has announced plans for a rate hike. This adjustment will impact households and businesses alike, raising the cost of energy as residents face already rising costs of living.
The increase is driven by several factors, including grid modernization, rising energy costs, and regulation compliance. Eversource has stated that the rate hike is necessary to maintain the reliability of the electric grid and support ongoing infrastructure improvements. The company does not generate its own electricity but procures power through competitive auctions, and the fluctuating costs of these purchases are passed directly to consumers.
The proposed rate hike will increase residential energy bills for their "winter rate" by approximately $15 per month for the average household. If approved, the per-kWh price will increase by 2.2 cents, from 8.99 cents per kWh to 11.19 cents per kWh for the months of January 2025 through June 2025. This translates to an estimated increase of $90 over that six-month period. The monthly increase may be even higher for small business customers, depending on their energy consumption.
Eversource has faced criticism for the rate hike, especially concerning the affordability of energy for many residents. However, the company encourages customers to take control of their electric bills by comparing rates from third-party suppliers on EnergizeCT.com. Eversource has also introduced a new low-income discount rate, offering a 10% or 50% discount for eligible households.
Rhode Island Electricity Prices Surge: What's Behind the Hike?
You may want to see also
Explore related products
Tips to save on energy bills in Connecticut
Energy bills in Connecticut are some of the highest in the US, with rates 63% higher per kilowatt-hour than the national average in 2022. While electricity rates in the state are expected to decrease from January to June 2024 compared to the same period in 2023, it is still important to know how to save on energy costs. Here are some tips to help you save on your energy bills in Connecticut:
Shop around for an electricity supplier
Connecticut has a deregulated energy market, which means that most ratepayers can choose their energy supplier. You can compare rates from different suppliers on EnergizeCT.com. By shopping around and paying attention to the features of each plan, you may be able to find a better rate and lower your bills.
Take advantage of energy assistance programs
If you are facing financial hardship, there are several energy assistance programs available in Connecticut that can help offset your energy costs. These include the Connecticut Energy Assistance Program (CEAP), which provides benefits of up to $530 for qualifying residents to assist with heating bills, and Operation Fuel, a nonprofit organization that provides utility and energy assistance to those in need. Additionally, the Public Utilities Regulation Authority's (PURA) Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers federally funded assistance to help reduce energy bills and prevent shutoffs.
Explore rebates and incentives for energy efficiency upgrades
Consider investing in energy efficiency upgrades such as insulation, heat pumps, and energy-efficient appliances. These upgrades can help lower your energy consumption and may be eligible for rebates and incentives through programs like Universal Illumination rebates. Eversource and UI also offer payment assistance and energy efficiency programs to help customers better manage their energy bills.
Practice energy conservation
In addition to taking advantage of assistance programs and rebates, there are simple energy conservation practices you can adopt to reduce your energy usage. This includes actions such as turning off lights and appliances when not in use, using smart thermostats to regulate temperature, and sealing gaps around windows and doors to prevent air leakage.
Electrical Job Bidding: Strategies for Commercial Success
You may want to see also
Frequently asked questions
Yes, electricity rates in Connecticut are expected to increase in 2025. Eversource, the state's largest energy provider, has announced plans for a rate hike, citing the need to maintain the reliability of the electric grid and support ongoing infrastructure improvements.
As of 2025, Eversource customers are paying 11.19 cents per kilowatt-hour, an increase of 20% from the previous rate. United Illuminating's rate is currently 13.57 cents per kilowatt-hour, representing a 12% increase.
To minimize the impact of rising energy prices, residents can shop for competitive rates from third-party suppliers, improve energy efficiency by sealing drafts and adding insulation, and adopt cost-saving strategies like shifting energy usage to off-peak hours.
Yes, Connecticut offers incentives for installing solar panels, which can help offset upfront costs and provide long-term savings. The state also has a deregulated electricity market, allowing customers to easily compare rates and switch to suppliers with lower prices. Additionally, Connecticut's Energy Assistance Program provides financial support for heating bills.
It's challenging to predict specific future rate changes. However, factors such as grid modernization, rising energy costs, and regulation compliance could influence rates in the coming years. Staying informed about rate updates and taking proactive steps to manage energy usage can help Connecticut residents navigate potential rate increases.
