Compare Connecticut electricity rates

Electricity deregulation first took effect in Connecticut in 2000. Connecticut electric suppliers can now compete to offer the best service, and customers can choose to purchase from an independent electricity supplier or stay with their area’s utility company. That can mean big savings for customers who buy their electricity at the right time.

In addition to electricity, the move deregulated natural gas, but only for commercial and industrial business customers. Meanwhile, all residents and businesses have electric choice. This choice is managed by the state’s Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), which educates customers on their options through its Energize CT program. PURA is also responsible for licensing electric suppliers in Connecticut before they can conduct business in the state.

With deregulation, Connecticut consumers have many choices for their energy supplier. Here are some links for our best guides to help you get started with deregulation, as well as a brief overview of the types of plans you’ll see in our marketplace.

• How do I switch energy providers?
• How do I choose the right electricity plan?
• Will I have to pay a deposit?
• My bill is too high. What do I do?

There are a few main plan types to keep in mind when shopping for energy. Your exact rate structure depends on the plan you choose but will fall into one of these categories. Remember to check the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) of any plan you consider to understand all its components.

• Fixed-rate plans: With a fixed rate plan, the price you pay for your electricity is set in your contract and will not change for the duration of the term, usually 12–36 months. If you terminate your contract early, you’ll have to pay an early termination fee (ETF).
• Variable-rate plans: These plans are tied directly to the energy market, where prices change constantly. The price you pay for energy will change from month to month, depending on fluctuations in the market. However, you can cancel your plan at any time without penalty.
• Prepaid plans: With this plan structure, you pay for energy before you use it and receive alerts when you need to recharge your account balance. This plan type is also a popular no-deposit and no-credit-check option.
• Renewable energy plans: In Connecticut, energy suppliers are required to source a portion of their energy from renewable sources such as solar or wind power. Some companies offer renewable energy credits (RECs), while others source 100% green energy.

If you choose not to purchase energy from an independent Connecticut electric supplier, you will be automatically enrolled with your area’s utility company, Eversource Energy or United Illuminating. The assigned utility is also your price to compare, which allows you to see how other suppliers stack up against it. Enter your ZIP code to compare alongside energy rates from suppliers in your area.

In Connecticut, consumers can purchase electricity from either the utility company in their area or an energy supplier. Eversource Energy is the main utility company for the region, serving customers across the state. Additionally, United Illuminating serves areas in New Haven and Fairfield counties.

Beyond these two entities, residential and business customers can choose from many electricity suppliers in Connecticut, including Constellation Energy. Regardless of which supplier you choose, your utility company will still deliver the power to your home and manage the infrastructure. If you have any emergencies or power outages, contact your utility company — not your supplier.

Choose Energy is an online energy marketplace powering energy choice across the country. We make it easy to find energy rates in your area by working with top providers to show plans in one place. Here’s how it works:

1. Enter your ZIP code. Compare plans and rates in your area on our free marketplace to find what works for you.
2. Pick a plan. When you find one you like, sign up online or over the phone in a few minutes. Or, call one of our experts at the number on your screen, and they’ll help guide you through the process.
3. Enjoy your choice. Your new Connecticut energy supplier will handle the set-up for you. Your work is done.

How long does it take to switch energy providers?

With Choose Energy, you can find a new provider and sign up for a plan in minutes. Your actual service transfer varies by provider, but it can take anywhere from a few days to a full billing cycle.

Is a deposit required for my energy plan?

Most providers require a deposit if your credit score doesn’t meet their minimum threshold. However, some Connecticut electric suppliers offer no-deposit plans that allow you to skip the credit check and prepay for your electricity.

How can I lower my electric bill?

There are many ways to lower your electric bill, such as reducing your heating and cooling demand, resealing all doors and windows, and unplugging appliances when they’re not in use. Many Connecticut energy suppliers also offer competitive rates, meaning you may be able to lower your bill by switching to a new plan.