Compare the Best Connecticut Electricity Rates

Compare The Best Connecticut Electricity Rates

We've researched the best providers and plans so you can find a great electricity rate in Connecticut

How to Start Electricity Service in Connecticut

Starting electricity service in Connecticut is a straightforward process, whether you're moving into a new home or switching providers. The first step is to determine which utility serves your area. Connecticut has two main electric distribution companies: Eversource and United Illuminating (UI). Eversource serves most of the state, while UI services areas around Bridgeport and New Haven. Once you know your utility, visit their website to start service.

For Eversource customers, go to the Start or Stop Service page and create or log in to your account to request service online. UI customers can do the same by visiting their Start or Stop Service portal. Be ready to provide your address, move-in date, and identification details. Service can usually begin within a few business days.

You can also shop for electricity supply rates, Connecticuts deregulated energy market allows you to compare electricity suppliers. Choosing a third-party supplier may help you find a better rate than the default utility price.

Connecticut Electric Utility Map

How to Switch Electricity Providers in Connecticut

Get a copy of your most recent bill. You'll need your:

• Account Number and/or POD ID
• Service and Billing Address
• Name Key
• Billing Cycle

1. Compare Rates

Enter Your Zip Code and Compare licensed electricity suppliers and rates for your utility (Eversource or UI).

2. Choose a Plan

Select a plan that fits your needslook at the price per kWh, contract length, fees, and renewable options.

3. Sign Up

Sign up directly through UtilityRates.com Youll need your electric bill for your account number and service info.

4. Confirmation

Youll receive confirmation, and the switch typically takes effect in one or two billing cyclesno service interruption or technician visit is needed.

5. No Fees

Theres no fee to switch, and you can return to the utilitys standard offer anytime.

Community Solar in Connecticut

How It Works in Connecticut

Community solar in Connecticut allows residents and businesses to benefit from solar energy without installing panels on their own property. Instead, customers subscribe to a local solar projectoften located off-site and receive credits on their electric bills based on their share of the power the project produces. This model is ideal for renters, condo owners, and those with shaded roofs or limited budgets.

Program Overview and Benefits

Connecticut's Community Solar program, overseen by the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), is part of the Shared Clean Energy Facility (SCEF) initiative. Subscribers can save on their electric bills while supporting clean, local energy generation. Participation is voluntary and open to customers of Eversource and United Illuminating. Community solar promotes energy equity, environmental sustainability, and consumer choice core goals of Connecticut's evolving energy policy.

Connecticut's Energy Deregulation

Connecticuts energy market has undergone a major transformation since the passage of Public Act 98-28 in 1998, when electricity rates were among the highest in the country. The Connecticut Department of Public Utility Control (DPUC) approved the deregulation plan to give residents more control over their energy choicesand by 2000, new laws had taken full effect.

Connecticut Deregulation History and Legislation

Prior to deregulation, residents had no alternative but to rely on two utilities: Connecticut Light & Power (CL&P) and United Illuminating (UI). These companies controlled both the supply and delivery of power. PA 98-28 required them to unbundle services and focus solely on delivery, billing, and system maintenance. This opened the market to new retail electricity suppliers competing on price and service offerings.

Impact on the Market

Deregulation introduced innovation and flexibility. Suppliers began offering residential and commercial plans, solar options, and budget-friendly payment plans. This gave residents the power to choose plans that matched their financial needs and lifestyle, improving affordability and transparency in energy pricing.

Connecticut Utility Companies and Stranded Costs

To compensate utilities for their lost generation revenues, the DPUC allowed recovery of stranded costs through four charges that are still present in CT electric bills. These surcharges also fund renewable energy programs and conservation strategies that benefit the environment and the grid.

Connecticut Electricity Utilities

Today, depending on where they live, Connecticut residents receive electricity distribution from either Eversource Energy or United Illuminating, while choosing their own energy supplier for generation. This structure supports a competitive market that encourages innovation and lower prices.

Utility Company vs. Energy Supplier in Connecticut

Role of a Connecticut Utility Company

In Connecticuts deregulated electricity market, utility companies such as Eversource and United Illuminating are responsible for delivering electricity to homes and businesses. They own and maintain the electric grid infrastructure, including power lines, poles, transformers, and meters. Utilities handle outage response, maintenance, and emergency repairs. They also manage billing, even if you choose a third-party energy supplier. The delivery portion of your bill, regulated by the Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), pays for these services.

Role of an Energy Supplier in Connecticut

Energy suppliers, also known as retail electric suppliers, compete to sell the actual electricity you use. They purchase electricity from generators and offer supply plans to customers. If you do not choose a supplier, your utility provides the Standard Service at a default rate that is set by PURA. However, by shopping for a supplier, you may find lower rates, fixed-price contracts, or 100% renewable energy options.

Who Do I Pay?

No matter which supplier you choose, your utility still delivers the electricity and sends one combined bill. That bill includes both supply charges (set by your supplier) and delivery charges (set by the utility).

Eversource

Eversource, former Connecticut Light & Power, is a local utility that operates in Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New Hampshire.

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United Illuminating Company

he United Illuminating Company (UI), established in 1899, is engaged in the purchase, transmission, distribution and sale of electricity and related services to approximately 328,000 residential, commercial and industrial customers in the greater New Haven and Bridgeport areas of Connecticut.

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What do utility companies in Connecticut do?

Green Energy Options in Connecticut

Renewable Electricity Choices

Connecticut residents have several green energy options thanks to the states deregulated electricity market. Many licensed retail suppliers offer 100% renewable energy plans sourced from wind, solar, or hydroelectric power. Customers can also participate in programs like Community Solar or support renewable energy through the Clean Energy Option on their utility bill. The states Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) ensures increasing amounts of electricity come from clean sources each year. These options give consumers the ability to reduce their carbon footprint while supporting Connecticuts transition to a more sustainable, low-emission energy future.