Rhode IslandElectricity Rates & Utility Costs
The average residential electricity rate in Rhode Island is 28.08¢/kWh, which is among the most expensive in the nation. That's 63.1% higher than the national average.
Residential
28.08¢
per kWh
Commercial
21.44¢
per kWh
Industrial
19.64¢
per kWh
Avg Monthly Bill
$131
residential
Rhode Island vs National Average
| Metric | Rhode Island | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Residential Rate | 28.08¢/kWh | 17.22¢/kWh | +10.86¢ |
| Monthly Bill | $131 | $134 | $-3.00 |
| Renewable Energy | 9.0% | ~22% | Below avg |
| Primary Source | Natural Gas | ||
Why Electricity Is Expensive in Rhode Island
Rhode Island has some of the highest electricity rates in the country. This is primarily due to high demand, aging infrastructure, and distribution costs. The state generates 9.0% of its electricity from renewable sources. Natural Gas is the primary energy source. Residents can reduce costs by comparing electricity providers, installing solar panels, and using energy-efficient appliances.
Utility Companies in Rhode Island
| Utility | Avg Rate | Customers | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| National Grid RI | 28.08¢/kWh | 500,000 | both |
Appliance Running Costs in Rhode Island
Based on Rhode Island's residential rate of 28.08¢/kWh.
| Appliance | Watts | Hours/Day | Monthly Cost | Annual Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air Purifier | 50 | 24 | $10.11 | $121.31 |
| Blender | 400 | 0.1 | $0.34 | $4.04 |
| CFL Bulb (13W) | 13 | 8 | $0.88 | $10.51 |
| Cable / Satellite Box | 35 | 24 | $7.08 | $84.91 |
| Ceiling Fan | 75 | 12 | $7.58 | $90.98 |
| Central Air Conditioner | 3,500 | 8 | $235.87 | $2,830.46 |
| Chest Freezer | 80 | 24 | $16.17 | $194.09 |
| Clothes Dryer (Electric) | 3,000 | 1 | $25.27 | $303.26 |
| Coffee Maker | 900 | 0.25 | $1.90 | $22.74 |
| Crypto Mining Rig | 1,500 | 24 | $303.26 | $3,639.17 |
| Dehumidifier | 300 | 12 | $30.33 | $363.92 |
| Desktop Computer | 200 | 8 | $13.48 | $161.74 |
| Dishwasher | 1,800 | 1 | $15.16 | $181.96 |
| Electric Baseboard Heater | 1,000 | 10 | $84.24 | $1,010.88 |
| Electric Fireplace | 1,400 | 4 | $47.17 | $566.09 |
Compare With Other States
More Data for Rhode Island
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the average electricity rate in Rhode Island?
The average residential electricity rate in Rhode Island is 28.08¢ per kWh, which is 63.1% above the national average of 17.22¢/kWh.
How much is the average monthly electric bill in Rhode Island?
The average monthly residential electric bill in Rhode Island is $131, compared to the national average of $134.
Why is electricity expensive in Rhode Island?
Rhode Island has some of the highest electricity rates in the country. This is primarily due to high demand, aging infrastructure, and distribution costs. The state generates 9.0% of its electricity from renewable sources. Natural Gas is the primary energy source. Residents can reduce costs by comparing electricity providers, installing solar panels, and using energy-efficient appliances.
What is the main energy source in Rhode Island?
The primary energy source in Rhode Island is Natural Gas, with 9.0% of electricity coming from renewable sources.
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Data verified March 2026 · Source: U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)