Electricity prices in New York and Connecticut rank among highest in U.S

Electricity rates in the Northeastern United States have reached some of the highest levels in the country. In New York, average residential electricity prices in May reached 29.93 cents per kilowatt-hour, making it the third highest in the nation, trailing only Hawaii and California. This figure represents a 12% increase compared to May 2025 and is approximately 62% above the U.S. average.

In Connecticut, electricity prices are expected to rise further, with the state ranking second highest in the nation. Experts note that while political leaders face pressure to lower costs, many components of electricity bills—such as transmission rates set by federal legislators and supply rates determined by regional markets—are outside the immediate control of state governors or legislatures.

Electricity bills are typically composed of four main parts: supply, transmission, local delivery, and public policy fees. In Connecticut, public policy fees include the Public Benefits Charge, which funds low-income relief and renewable energy incentives. While these fees are often politically contentious, they represent a significant portion of the total cost structure.