Compare Massachusetts Energy Prices

The state of Massachusetts deregulated its energy market back in 2005, meaning residents can buy electricity from a wide variety of providers rather than just the local utility company. As a Massachusetts resident, you can lower your electricity bill by shopping around for an affordable energy plan that works best for your needs.

You can often save on your monthly energy bill if you learn to shop strategically in deregulated markets. For instance, demand tends to drop during milder seasons like spring or fall in Massachusetts, so you could lock in a lower rate by signing up for a new plan during one of these times.

Here’s what the deregulated market means for you:

• You can choose the best electricity rates instead of staying with your utility’s default supply price.
• Your utility (National Grid or Eversource) still delivers power and maintains the electric grid.
• Choosing a competitive supplier might help you lock in a cheaper rate or find a plan that supports green energy.

This Choose Energy guide can help you compare affordable electricity prices, providers, and plans in Massachusetts, so you can start saving on energy. When you’re ready to start comparing plans, simply enter your ZIP code on this page.

Massachusetts electricity rates change on a monthly and sometimes daily basis. Based on the most recent data from the Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average residential electricity rate in Massachusetts is currently 29.94 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). For commercial customers, the average rate is currently 22.46 cents per kWh.

The cost of electricity in Massachusetts varies depending on your location, how much energy you use, the time of year, and other factors. For instance, Western Mass electric rates may differ from those in Eastern Mass. To get the most accurate price for your location, enter your ZIP code on our marketplace.

Massachusetts is one of the top ten states for expensive energy bills. The current 29.94 cents per kWh average rate nearly doubles the 17.47 cents per kWh national average, based on EIA data. Several factors cause these expensive energy prices, including reliance on imported energy, high transmission and distribution costs, and the state’s commitment to clean energy.

Massachusetts doesn’t make enough electricity inside the state to meet demand, so it has to import energy from other states and Canada to make sure there’s enough power. Bringing in energy from farther away adds extra costs for travel through power lines and pipelines that are passed on to customers.

In addition, Massachusetts is committed to reaching net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. These efforts require investment in renewable infrastructure, which can increase the cost of electricity in the short term.

Even though Massachusetts electricity plans are more expensive than in other states, you can still save money on your energy bill by choosing your plan strategically. Enter your ZIP code to compare electricity rates in your area.

When shopping on the Choose Energy marketplace, you’ll come across several different types of plans, each with their own benefits and drawbacks. Here’s a brief overview of the types of plans you might find:

• Fixed-rate plans: With a fixed-rate plan, your rate remains stable for the duration of your contract, which will generally last between 12 and 36 months. Though your bill may vary due to transmission fees and taxes, your rate remains constant despite any changes in the energy market. However, you’ll likely pay an early termination fee (ETF) if you cancel before the contract ends. These plans are ideal for homeowners looking for long-term stability.
• Variable-rate plans: Variable-rate plan rates fluctuate with demand shifts in the energy market. As a result, your Massachusetts electricity rate can change monthly. However, you’ll have the flexibility to terminate your plan anytime with no penalty because variable-rate plans don’t lock you into a contract. If you’re a short-term renter or you move frequently, this type of plan may be the right choice.
• Prepaid and no-deposit plans: Many providers require a credit check and a deposit before you begin service. To avoid the deposit, you may be able to choose a no-deposit plan, such as a prepaid plan, which lets you pay for energy upfront. You will receive regular alerts about your account balance and can add additional funds as needed.
• Renewable energy plans: Many electricity providers in Massachusetts offer renewable energy options for consumers. Some companies offer renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset your home’s environmental footprint. Others source 100% green energy from solar power or other sustainable sources.

Make sure to read the Terms of Service (TOS) for any plan you are considering to understand all its components. Our energy buying guide can help you learn more about the various plan types.

Massachusetts residents can buy electricity or natural gas from their utility company at the default price or a separate energy supplier. Energy deregulation creates competition among providers to offer you the best rates, meaning you can compare rates and plans to find the best Massachusetts electric company for your needs. However, it’s important to know how these companies differ to better understand your options.

Energy suppliers

Energy suppliers sell electricity plans directly to customers. Since these companies are competing for your business, they often offer lower rates or unique incentives to appeal to new customers. Residents and business owners can compare various energy suppliers to find the cheapest electricity in MA. The best electric companies in Massachusetts include Constellation Energy, Direct Energy, and Clearview Energy.

Utility companies

Consumers in deregulated areas can choose their supplier, but they cannot choose their utility company. Your location determines your utility company because of the established power grid. However, you can still compare electric rates in Massachusetts and decide whether to buy your energy from your assigned utility or a retail energy provider.

Your assigned utility will deliver your electricity regardless of where you buy it from, and it will transport electricity across the grid to your home. Utilities are also responsible for maintaining the electrical grid and responding to power outages. If you experience a power outage, call your utility company to restore power:

• Eversource: 800-592-2000
• National Grid: 1-800-465-1212
• Unitil: 888-301-7700

Utilities have a default rate called the Price to Compare (PTC). This rate is what you’ll pay if you purchase your electricity from your utility, and is a price you can use as a reference when signing up with an alternative supplier. You can compare the PTC with other Massachusetts energy plans on our marketplace to help you secure the best deals for electricity and potentially lower your bill. Check the following table for current Massachusetts PTC rates to get an idea of the typical cost of electricity in MA.

Enter your ZIP code on our marketplace to compare today’s lowest electric rates in Massachusetts.

Based on the most recent data from the EIA, the average monthly residential electricity bill in Massachusetts is $167.36. This is calculated using the current average electric rate of 29.84 cents per kWh and typical usage of 559 kWh per month.

Like residents, businesses can also benefit from deregulation in Massachusetts. The power to choose commercial rates allows companies to customize their electric and gas plans to suit their usage levels and business needs. Check out our commercial energy page to learn more about how business electricity plans work.

Choose Energy is a national energy marketplace helping customers compare and sign up for electricity plans in their area. We simplify the energy-shopping process by partnering with top electricity suppliers to help you find today’s best energy rates. Here’s how it works:

• Enter your ZIP code. Compare the best electric and gas plans and recent rates in your area. Use our filters to narrow down your results according to your needs and preferences.
• Pick a plan. Once you find the best plan, you can sign up online or over the phone in a few minutes. Or, you can call one of our experts at the number on your screen to walk you through the process.
• Enjoy your choice. Your new provider will handle the setup for you without interrupting your service.

Who is the cheapest supplier in Massachusetts?

Constellation Energy and Clearview Energy currently offer the cheapest electricity rates in Massachusetts on the Choose Energy marketplace. However, electricity rates change frequently, so make sure to enter your ZIP code to find the most recent rates in your area.

How long does it take to switch energy providers?

Switching providers is quick and effortless with Choose Energy. You can compare plans and sign up in a matter of minutes. Your new service usually begins on your next billing cycle, but some providers may offer same-day electricity setup. Once you’re enrolled in a plan, your new provider will transition your service without interruption.

What happens if I don’t choose an energy supplier?

If you don’t sign up with an energy supplier in Massachusetts, you’ll be enrolled in an energy plan through your utility at the default rate, otherwise known as the price to compare. Keep in mind that the PTC is often higher than the electric rates you can find through alternative suppliers.

How can I lower my electric bill in Massachusetts?

There are many ways to lower your electric bill, including properly maintaining your HVAC and upgrading to more energy-efficient appliances. One of the most straightforward ways to lower your electric bill is by reducing your energy consumption. You can also compare electric rates in Massachusetts on the Choose Energy marketplace.