The average residential electricity rate in Rhode Island (RI) is $0.2430 per kWh as of April 2026, according to the US Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is among the highest in the nation of $0.1805/kWh, ranking Rhode Island #45 out of 51 (all 50 states plus Washington DC), where #1 is the cheapest and #51 is the most expensive. The average Rhode Island household consumes 547 kWh per month, resulting in a monthly electric bill of approximately $133 and annual electricity costs of about $1,596.
Rhode Island is almost entirely dependent on natural gas (89%). The Block Island Wind Farm was the first US offshore wind project.
This comprehensive guide covers Rhode Island electricity rates, historical trends, utility providers, bill calculation, solar savings potential, and actionable tips to reduce your electric bill. All rate data is sourced from the US EIA and updated monthly. Use our electricity cost calculator for personalized estimates.
Rhode Island residential electricity rates have increased 20% over the past six years. The table below shows the trajectory compared against the national average.
| Year | Rhode Island ($/kWh) | National Avg | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | $0.2032 | $0.1322 | +54% |
| 2022 | $0.2290 | $0.1492 | +53% |
| 2024 | $0.2250 | $0.1680 | +34% |
| Apr 2026 | $0.2430 | $0.1805 | +35% |
Rhode Island has a deregulated electricity market. The primary delivery utilities are: Rhode Island Energy (PPL).
Rhode Island generates electricity from: Natural gas 89%, Solar 5%, Wind 3%, Other 3%.
Your monthly electric bill = kWh Used × Rate per kWh. The average Rhode Island household uses 547 kWh/month.
Rhode Island has a single utility serving the entire state. The state is deregulated. Rhode Island is investing heavily in offshore wind.
Universal strategies: adjust thermostat 2-3 degrees (saves 5-10% on HVAC), switch to LEDs (see our LED savings calculator), unplug phantom loads (saves $100-200/year), and run major appliances during off-peak hours if your utility offers time-of-use pricing. For larger investments, consider a heat pump, better insulation, or a smart thermostat.
Rhode Island receives 4 peak sun hours/day. A 6 kW system produces ~7,183 kWh/year, saving ~$1,745/year. With the 30% federal ITC, payback is typically 4-6 years. Use our solar panel calculator and solar ROI calculator for personalized estimates.
| State | Rate ($/kWh) | Avg Bill | Market |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island (RI) | $0.2430 | $133 | Deregulated |
| Connecticut (CT) | $0.2550 | $199 | Deregulated |
| Massachusetts (MA) | $0.3151 | $177 | Deregulated |
Data source: US Energy Information Administration (EIA), Electric Power Monthly, April 2026. Rates shown are average residential rates and may differ from your specific utility tariff. Solar estimates assume a 6 kW system with 82% efficiency factor. Always verify current rates with your utility provider.