Pennsylvania Electricity Rates
The average electricity rate in Pennsylvania is 13.7 cents per kWh as of March 2026, with the lowest plans starting at 6.9 cents per kWh. Pennsylvania was the first major state to deregulate its electricity market under the 1996 Electricity Generation Customer Choice and Competition Act, meaning all 5,200,000+ households can choose their electricity supplier. Powered by the nation’s #2 nuclear fleet and the Marcellus Shale natural gas boom, PA consistently delivers rates below the national average of 16.6¢/kWh—and shoppers who compare plans typically save 10–30% versus their utility’s default Price to Compare (PTC) rate. Below you’ll find rates for every major Pennsylvania city, a breakdown of how the market works, and everything you need to lock in the best plan.
Pennsylvania Electricity Rates by City
Pennsylvania electricity rates vary by city because each area is served by a different Electric Distribution Company (EDC). Cities in PECO territory (Philadelphia and suburbs) tend to have the lowest supply rates, while Duquesne Light (Pittsburgh) and FirstEnergy territories run slightly higher due to differing delivery charges and wholesale market dynamics. Click any city for live plan comparisons.
| City | Utility (EDC) | Lowest Rate | Avg Rate | Plans |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allentown | PPL Electric | 8.90¢ | 14.20¢ | 132 |
| Altoona | Penelec | 8.20¢ | 13.80¢ | 113 |
| Chester | PECO Energy | 6.90¢ | 12.00¢ | 126 |
| Erie | Penelec | 8.20¢ | 13.80¢ | 113 |
| Hermitage | Penn Power | 8.70¢ | 13.80¢ | 104 |
| Indiana | Penelec | 8.20¢ | 13.80¢ | 113 |
| Johnstown | Penelec | 8.20¢ | 13.80¢ | 113 |
| McKeesport | Duquesne Light | 8.80¢ | 14.20¢ | 121 |
| Philadelphia | PECO Energy | 6.90¢ | 12.00¢ | 126 |
| Pittsburgh | Duquesne Light | 8.80¢ | 14.20¢ | 121 |
| Pottsville | PPL Electric | 8.90¢ | 14.20¢ | 132 |
| Scranton | PPL Electric | 8.90¢ | 14.20¢ | 132 |
| Sharon | Penn Power | 8.70¢ | 13.80¢ | 104 |
| Wilkes-Barre | PPL Electric | 8.90¢ | 14.20¢ | 132 |
Pennsylvania: A Pioneer in Energy Choice
Pennsylvania deregulated its electricity market in 1996—six years before Texas and five years before Ohio—making it one of the very first states to give consumers the power to choose their electricity supplier. The Electricity Generation Customer Choice and Competition Act separated generation from delivery, creating a competitive marketplace that has matured over nearly three decades.
You Choose a Supplier
Browse licensed Electric Generation Suppliers (EGS) and pick a plan. PA has 43+ active suppliers—more options than most deregulated states.
Your Supplier Generates Power
Your supplier purchases wholesale electricity through the PJM Interconnection—the nation’s largest grid operator, spanning 13 states and D.C.
Your EDC Delivers It
Your local EDC (PECO, PPL, Duquesne Light, or FirstEnergy) delivers the power through the same poles and wires regardless of your supplier.
PA PUC Oversees Everything
The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission regulates delivery charges, licenses all suppliers, and protects consumers through its complaint and mediation process.
Supply vs. Delivery: Understanding Your Pennsylvania Bill
Your Pennsylvania electricity bill has two distinct components. Supply charges (generation) cover the cost of producing electricity—this is the portion you can shop for. Delivery charges (distribution and transmission) cover the cost of moving electricity to your home—these are regulated by the PA PUC and stay the same no matter which supplier you choose. When comparing plans, focus on beating your Price to Compare—the default supply rate your EDC charges if you don’t choose a competitive supplier.
Pennsylvania EDC Service Territory Map
Your Electric Distribution Company (EDC) determines the delivery charges on your bill and which suppliers serve your area. These charges are regulated by the PA PUC and are the same no matter which supplier you choose. Hover over any county to see which EDC serves that area.
PECO Energy
The largest EDC in Pennsylvania, serving 1.6 million electric customers across Philadelphia and four surrounding counties. PECO territory consistently offers the lowest supply rates due to intense supplier competition and high population density.
PPL Electric Utilities
Serves 1.4 million customers across 29 counties. Covers the Lehigh Valley, Harrisburg capital region, Scranton/Wilkes-Barre, and much of central PA. Strong supplier participation keeps rates competitive across this large territory.
Duquesne Light
Serves approximately 600,000 customers in Allegheny and Beaver counties. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, Duquesne Light has provided service since 1912. Slightly higher delivery charges than PECO, but robust supplier competition keeps total costs in check.
Met-Ed
A FirstEnergy subsidiary serving approximately 560,000 customers in eastern Pennsylvania including the Reading area and portions of Adams, Berks, Chester, Cumberland, Dauphin, Lancaster, Lebanon, and York counties.
Penelec
A FirstEnergy subsidiary serving approximately 590,000 customers across the largest geographic territory in the state. Covers Erie, Altoona, Johnstown, and much of rural northern and western Pennsylvania.
Understanding Your Price to Compare
Pennsylvania has a concept no other deregulated state matches: the Price to Compare (PTC). It’s the single most important number on your electric bill—the supply rate your EDC charges by default. Any competitive supplier rate below your PTC means you save money. Here’s how it works on a typical 1,000 kWh monthly bill.
Approximate Price to Compare by EDC
PTC rates change quarterly. These are approximate current supply rates your EDC charges by default—any competitive plan below these numbers saves you money.
PTC Resets Every Quarter
Pennsylvania EDCs update their Price to Compare in January, April, July, and October. When the PTC rises, more competitive plans become available below that threshold—making it a prime time to shop. When the PTC drops, fewer plans beat it, but long-term fixed rates may still offer better value. Set a quarterly reminder to check your PTC against current market rates.
Pennsylvania’s Energy Landscape
Pennsylvania’s electricity rates don’t exist in a vacuum—they’re shaped by the state’s extraordinary energy production. PA is one of only a handful of states that ranks in the top five nationally for both nuclear and natural gas production, giving it a structural advantage that keeps wholesale prices competitive across the PJM grid.
Nuclear Power
Pennsylvania is the nation’s second-largest nuclear power producer with five active reactors across four plants. Nuclear provides reliable, carbon-free baseload power around the clock—keeping wholesale prices stable and predictable even during extreme weather.
Natural Gas
The Marcellus Shale revolution made Pennsylvania the #2 natural gas producer in America. This abundant local supply feeds PA’s growing fleet of gas-fired power plants, reducing dependence on imported fuels and keeping generation costs among the lowest in the PJM region.
Renewables
Pennsylvania’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards require utilities to source increasing shares from renewables. Wind farms in the Appalachian ridges, solar installations across the state, and legacy hydroelectric plants all contribute—and many suppliers offer 100% green energy plans at competitive rates.
Why This Matters for Your Bill
Pennsylvania’s diverse, in-state generation fleet means the state isn’t overly dependent on any single fuel source. When natural gas prices spike, nuclear provides a price floor. When renewable output dips, gas plants ramp up instantly. This fuel diversity translates directly to more stable, competitive retail electricity rates compared to states that rely heavily on a single fuel.
Types of Pennsylvania Electricity Plans
Pennsylvania’s mature competitive market offers a wide range of plan types. Understanding the differences helps you match your electricity contract to your budget, risk tolerance, and lifestyle.
Fixed-Rate Plans
Your supply rate per kWh stays locked for the entire contract term (typically 3–36 months). Ideal for homeowners who want predictable bills through Pennsylvania’s cold winters and humid summers.
- Rate locked regardless of market fluctuations
- Protection against winter heating cost spikes
- Early termination fees may apply ($50–$150)
- Current PA fixed rates: 6.9¢–15¢/kWh
Variable-Rate Plans
Your supply rate fluctuates monthly based on PJM wholesale market prices. Best for Pennsylvanians who want flexibility and no long-term commitment.
- No contract or early termination fee
- Rates may drop during mild weather
- Rates can spike during extreme cold or heat
- Cancel or switch anytime without penalty
Green Energy Plans
Electricity sourced from renewable sources. PA’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards ensure growing renewable content across the grid, and many suppliers go further with 100% green options.
- Support PA wind, solar, and hydro
- Often competitively priced with conventional
- CleanSky, Green Mountain, CleanChoice offer plans
- Same reliability as conventional electricity
Short-Term Plans
Lock in a rate for 1–3 months. Perfect for new residents or anyone who wants to test a supplier before committing to a longer term.
- Try a supplier with minimal commitment
- Rates often competitive with longer terms
- Typically convert to variable after term ends
- No or very low cancellation fees
Budget Billing Plans
Average your annual costs into equal monthly payments. Especially valuable in Pennsylvania, where winter heating bills can swing dramatically from summer months.
- Predictable monthly payments year-round
- No surprises during PA’s coldest months
- Annual true-up adjusts for actual usage
- Available from select suppliers and EDCs
Time-of-Use Plans
Pay different rates depending on when you use electricity. Lower rates during off-peak hours reward customers who can shift heavy usage to evenings and weekends.
- Lower rates during off-peak hours
- Higher rates during peak demand (2–7 PM)
- Best if you can shift laundry & EV charging
- Savings potential of 10–25% for flexible households
Best Time to Shop for Pennsylvania Electricity
Pennsylvania has a unique advantage over other deregulated states: the quarterly PTC reset gives you a built-in reminder to check the market. Combine that with seasonal PJM wholesale price patterns, and you can time your switch for maximum savings.
Spring: Mar–May
Heating season ends and cooling hasn’t started. PJM wholesale prices drop and suppliers offer their most aggressive rates. Coincides with the April PTC reset—the single best window to lock in a low fixed rate.
Winter: Jan–Feb
Pennsylvania’s cold winters drive heating demand and can spike PJM wholesale costs, especially during polar vortex events. If your contract expires in winter, try to switch before December.
Fall: Sep–Nov
AC demand fades and wholesale prices retreat. The October PTC reset provides another natural checkpoint. Excellent window if you missed spring or your current plan is ending.
Check Your Price to Compare
Find your PTC on your electric bill or at PAPowerSwitch.com. This is the rate you need to beat. Any supplier rate below your PTC means immediate savings.
Know Your Usage
Review your past 12 months of bills. PA homes average about 880 kWh/month, but this varies widely. Apartments may use 400–600 kWh; larger homes with electric heat use 1,500+.
Compare Supply Rates
Focus on the supply rate per kWh since delivery charges stay the same. Watch for introductory teaser rates that increase after the first month. Always read the Disclosure Statement.
Enroll and Save
Sign up online or by phone. Your new supplier handles the switch with your EDC—no calls to make, no service interruption. The transition typically completes within 1–2 billing cycles.
Watch Out for Teaser Rate Traps
Some Pennsylvania suppliers advertise extremely low introductory rates that jump dramatically after the first month or two. A plan at 6.9¢/kWh for month one that becomes 14¢/kWh in month three costs more over 6 months than a steady 10¢/kWh plan. Always calculate your total cost over the full contract term, not just the initial rate.
Pennsylvania Consumer Resources
Pennsylvania offers some of the strongest consumer protections in any deregulated state. The PA PUC provides multiple tools and programs to help residential customers navigate the electricity market and manage energy costs.
PAPowerSwitch.com
The PA PUC’s official comparison website lets you browse all licensed suppliers and current offers for your EDC territory. It’s a useful starting point—ElectricChoice.com adds provider reviews, plan analysis, and rate alerts on top.
3-Day Right to Cancel
Pennsylvania law gives you 3 business days to cancel any new electricity supply contract without penalty. If you change your mind after signing up with a new supplier, you can cancel within this window at no cost.
LIHEAP & Assistance Programs
Pennsylvania’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps qualifying households pay energy bills. Each EDC also offers Customer Assistance Programs (CAPs) with discounted rates for income-eligible customers.
Disclosure Statement Requirement
Every PA supplier must provide a standardized Disclosure Statement before enrollment. It clearly lists the rate, contract term, cancellation fees, and renewable energy content—making apples-to-apples comparison straightforward.
Filing a Complaint
If you have a dispute with your electricity supplier or EDC, the Pennsylvania PUC provides free complaint resolution. You can file online at puc.pa.gov, call 800-692-7380, or write to the Bureau of Consumer Services. The PUC investigates all complaints and can order refunds, billing corrections, and service restoration.
Pennsylvania Business Electricity Rates
Pennsylvania’s deregulated market extends to all commercial and industrial customers. With access to the PJM wholesale market and abundant in-state generation from nuclear, natural gas, and renewables, PA businesses enjoy competitive energy costs—a key factor behind the state’s strong manufacturing, logistics, and data center sectors.
Retail & Restaurants
Small commercial operations across Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and Lehigh Valley metros benefit from fixed-rate plans that protect against seasonal price swings in the PJM market.
Office & Data Centers
PA’s reliable grid and competitive rates have attracted major data center campuses. Corporate tenants can negotiate multi-year supply agreements with demand response options.
Manufacturing & Industrial
Pennsylvania’s industrial heritage—steel, chemicals, food processing—benefits from direct PJM market access. The Marcellus Shale corridor adds petrochemical and energy-sector demand.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania Electricity
Everything you need to know about shopping for electricity in Pennsylvania, answered in plain language.
What is the average electricity rate in Pennsylvania?
The average residential electricity supply rate in Pennsylvania is 13.7¢/kWh as of March 2026. However, shoppers who compare providers can find fixed-rate plans starting as low as 6.9¢/kWh. Your total bill also includes delivery charges from your EDC, which remain the same regardless of which supplier you choose.
Is Pennsylvania a deregulated electricity state?
Yes. Pennsylvania deregulated its electricity market in 1996 under the Electricity Generation Customer Choice and Competition Act—making it one of the first states in America to do so, predating both Texas (2002) and Ohio (2001). All residential and commercial customers can choose their electricity supplier. Your local EDC continues to deliver the power through the same infrastructure.
What is the Price to Compare (PTC)?
The Price to Compare (PTC) is the supply rate your EDC charges by default if you don’t choose a competitive supplier. It’s set quarterly by the PA PUC through competitive procurement auctions and is displayed on your electric bill. Any competitive supplier rate below your PTC means you save money. The PTC varies by EDC—check yours at PAPowerSwitch.com or on your latest bill.
Which Pennsylvania city has the cheapest electricity?
Cities served by PECO Energy—Philadelphia and surrounding suburban counties—consistently have the lowest supply rates in Pennsylvania, with plans starting around 6.9¢/kWh. PECO territory benefits from strong supplier competition, high customer density, and proximity to PJM wholesale electricity markets.
What are Pennsylvania’s Electric Distribution Companies?
Pennsylvania has seven major EDCs: PECO Energy (Philadelphia and southeastern PA, an Exelon subsidiary), PPL Electric Utilities (central and eastern PA), Duquesne Light (Pittsburgh and southwestern PA), Met-Ed (Reading and eastern PA), Penelec (northern and western PA), Penn Power (western PA)—the last three are all FirstEnergy subsidiaries—and Pike County Light & Power. Your EDC determines your delivery charges and which suppliers serve your area.
How do I switch electricity suppliers in Pennsylvania?
Switching takes about 10 minutes and causes zero service interruption. Choose a new supplier and sign up online or by phone. Your new supplier notifies your EDC, and the switch completes within 1–2 billing cycles. The same electricity flows through the same wires—only the supply portion of your bill changes. Pennsylvania also gives you a 3-business-day right to cancel any new contract without penalty.
Why are Pennsylvania electricity rates competitive?
Pennsylvania benefits from a rare combination: it’s the #2 nuclear power state and the #2 natural gas producer (Marcellus Shale) in the nation. This abundant in-state generation keeps PJM wholesale prices low. Combined with nearly three decades of deregulation driving supplier competition, PA consistently delivers residential rates below the national average.
What happens if I don’t choose a supplier?
If you don’t choose a supplier, your EDC provides generation service at their Price to Compare (PTC) rate. The PTC is set through competitive procurement and changes quarterly. While the PTC isn’t necessarily a bad rate, shoppers who compare plans can typically find fixed-rate offers 10–30% below the PTC, especially during favorable market conditions in spring and fall.
When is the best time to shop for Pennsylvania electricity?
The best windows are March through May and September through November. During these mild-weather months, PJM wholesale prices drop and suppliers offer competitive rates. Additionally, PA’s PTC resets every quarter (January, April, July, October)—check rates right after a PTC increase for the best competitive savings.
Are there cancellation fees for Pennsylvania electricity plans?
It depends on the plan. Many Pennsylvania plans—especially month-to-month and short-term contracts—have no cancellation fee. Fixed-rate plans with longer terms may include an early termination fee, typically $50–$150. Pennsylvania law requires suppliers to provide a Disclosure Statement with all fees clearly listed before enrollment. You also have a 3-business-day right to cancel any new contract.
What is the average Pennsylvania electricity bill?
The average Pennsylvania household uses about 880 kWh per month—slightly below the national average of 1,000 kWh. Factoring in both supply and delivery charges, the typical Pennsylvania electricity bill is $130–$160/month. Winter bills with electric heating can reach $200+. Shopping for a competitive supply rate can reduce your bill by 10–30%.
How do I start electric service when moving to Pennsylvania?
Contact your local EDC (PECO, PPL, Duquesne Light, or FirstEnergy) to establish delivery service at your new address. Your EDC will provide default supply at the Price to Compare rate while you shop for a competitive supplier. Once delivery is active, compare supplier plans using your ZIP code, sign up, and your new supplier takes over within 1–2 billing cycles. No service interruption occurs during the switch.
Who do I call for power outages in Pennsylvania?
For power outages, contact your local EDC (not your supplier). PECO Energy (Philadelphia): 800-841-4141. PPL Electric (Central/Eastern PA): 800-342-5775. Duquesne Light (Pittsburgh): 412-393-7100. FirstEnergy (Met-Ed, Penelec, Penn Power): 888-544-4877. Your EDC owns the infrastructure and handles all outage restoration regardless of which supplier you use.
Can I have solar panels and still choose a supplier in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Pennsylvania supports net metering for solar panel owners. You can generate your own electricity, send excess power back to the grid for credits, and still choose a competitive supplier for any additional electricity you need. PA’s Alternative Energy Portfolio Standards also incentivize renewable development through Solar Renewable Energy Credits (SRECs), which solar owners can sell for additional income.
Is Pennsylvania electricity cheaper than New York or New Jersey?
Yes. Pennsylvania’s average residential electricity rate of 13.7¢/kWh is significantly lower than New York (~22.5¢/kWh) and lower than New Jersey (~17.8¢/kWh). Pennsylvania benefits from abundant in-state generation—particularly Marcellus Shale natural gas and nuclear power—which keeps wholesale prices lower than the congested Northeast corridor. Rates are also competitive with Ohio (~9.3¢/kWh) and below the national average of 16.6¢/kWh.
What is PJM and how does it affect Pennsylvania electricity prices?
PJM Interconnection is the regional transmission organization that manages the wholesale electricity grid for Pennsylvania and 12 other mid-Atlantic states. PJM operates the largest competitive wholesale electricity market in the world, serving 65+ million people. Pennsylvania’s electricity suppliers purchase power through PJM auctions, and the state’s significant generation capacity (nuclear, natural gas, and coal) means PA is a net exporter of electricity—which generally keeps wholesale and retail rates competitive.
How much can I save by switching electricity suppliers in Pennsylvania?
Most Pennsylvania households save between 10% and 30% on their electricity supply charges by switching from their EDC’s default Price to Compare (PTC) rate to a competitive supplier. On an average monthly bill of $130–$160, that translates to roughly $15–$45 per month or $180–$540 per year. Savings vary by EDC territory, usage level, and the plan you select. Fixed-rate plans provide price certainty, while variable plans may offer lower rates during off-peak seasons.
How Pennsylvania Compares to Neighboring States
Average residential electricity rates · EIA data · Deregulated states marked with *
Compare Electricity Rates in Other States
Pennsylvania is one of several deregulated states where you can choose your electricity supplier. Compare rates and plans in these other markets:
About this Data
Rate data is sourced from the ElectricChoice.com electric rate and plan marketplace, the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PA PUC), the PAPowerSwitch.com comparison tool, and the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). The inclusion, exclusion, ranking, or naming of any rate, plan, or provider on this page does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation. Listed rates reflect the supply portion only and do not include delivery charges from your local EDC. You should review each plan’s Disclosure Statement and terms of service before enrolling. Price to Compare rates are approximate and change quarterly. Last data refresh: .
Energy production statistics sourced from the EIA State Energy Data System (SEDS). Neighboring state rate comparisons use EIA average residential electricity price data.
