Compare New Hampshire electricity prices

New Hampshire residents have energy deregulation, which means they can choose which electric companies, plans, and rates work best for them and, if things change, switch to another if they want. Right now, residents have a choice between two types of energy plans: fixed-rate and variable-rate plans. Both of these plans have advantages and disadvantages, which is why it’s important to understand what these plans entail before signing up.

Deregulation in New Hampshire started in 1996 after New Hampshire legislation enacted RSA 374-F. That legislation meant that starting January 1998, consumers could choose their retail energy supplier. The first of the electric companies in New Hampshire to implement deregulation was Liberty Utilities in August 1998. It wasn’t until 2003 that deregulation was complete throughout the entire state. New Hampshire doesn’t offer residential natural gas deregulation.

Deregulation forced energy suppliers in New Hampshire to be more efficient and offer competitive rates to businesses and residents. The New Hampshire Public Utilities Commission (NHPUC) is responsible for serving the entire state and was the driving force behind restructuring the state’s deregulated market. While the NHPUC doesn’t regulate New Hampshire electric plans or rates, they do regulate investor-owned public utilities as defined in RSA 362:2. You can find the NHPUC website by clicking here.

Consumers have the right to choose which electric plans they would like to use, and the option to switch if they find better rates or plans. These plans include fixed or variable rates, as well as green options. Here is more information about energy plans available in New Hampshire:

Green or renewable energy plans

Green options are popular among New Hampshire businesses and residents. Renewable options include biomass, geothermal, hydropower, sunlight, and wind. Businesses and residents can take advantage of solar electric, solar thermal, and wind renewable energy technologies. Between 2016 and 2017, wind power provided the majority of New Hampshire’s electricity.

Fixed-rate plans

When consumers sign up for a fixed-rate plan, that means their electricity supply rate stays the same throughout the length of the contract. It doesn’t matter if market volatility or natural disasters like tornadoes or other weather occurs. The supply rates are not going to change. Consumers can find fixed-rate plans for six, 12, 24, and 36 months.

Variable-rate plans

Consumers who opt for a variable-rate plan are going to see fluctuations in their electric rates as market conditions change. While there is flexibility available in a variable-rate plan, the disadvantage is that pricing could lead to a higher monthly bill. These plans are optimal for those who prefer not to lock into a specific monthly rate, like with fixed-rate plans.

All New Hampshire residents are part of what’s called the New Hampshire Electricity Co-op. That means, if residents choose not to buy from a supplier, the co-op continues providing electricity to homes until they decide which electric supplier they would like to use.

Additional Choose Energy resources:

• How can I switch energy providers?
• How can I choose the right electricity plan?
• Do residents have to pay a deposit?
• What residents can do if their bill is too high

There are currently four electric utility companies in New Hampshire: Eversource Energy, Liberty Utilities, New Hampshire Electric Coop, Inc., and Unitil Energy Systems. Those utility companies work with electric suppliers, including:

• Direct Energy: With four different fixed-rate plans to choose from, consumers can opt for those that feature 100% or 0% renewable energy. Plan timeframes include 12, 16, 18, and 24 months with no introductory or cancellation fees.
• ENH Power: While there are no renewable energy options, consumers can take advantage of fixed-rate plans for three, six, and 12 months. There is no introductory fee, but there is a $100 cancellation fee.

Even though utility companies and electricity providers sound like the same thing, there are differences. For example, utility companies are responsible for maintaining area lines and infrastructure. Electricity providers are responsible for delivering power to your home.

Finding the right energy plan with Choose Energy is a straightforward process. Your first step is to enter the ZIP code for your location. On entering your ZIP you’ll get a list of providers for your area so you can compare plans and rates. Then, select the plan you want to use by calling us or setting up services online. Once you’ve signed up, your new supplier will set up your service.

Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 11/18/2020 for ZIP Code 03301. Rates may have changed since this date. For the most up to date rates in your area, please enter your zip code above.