Compare Massachusetts electricity rates

The Massachusetts energy market became deregulated in 1997 with the Electric Industry Restructuring Act. In a deregulated market, energy companies in Massachusetts can compete for consumers’ business, and customers can choose from a pool of candidates.

The delivery of electricity still falls to the utility. However, the idea behind deregulation is that increased competition will lead to lower energy rates. The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) regulates the supply of electricity at a federal level.

The deregulated Massachusetts market allows consumers to choose their energy supplier. Below you will find links to some of our best guides about deregulation, as well as a brief overview of the kinds of plans you’ll see in our marketplace.

• How do I switch energy providers?
• How do I choose the right electricity plan?
• Will I have to pay a deposit?
• My bill is too high. What do I do?

Following are a few of the plan types you’ll see when shopping for energy. Your exact rate structure will depend on the plan you choose, but will fall into one of these categories. It is important to check the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) of any plan you are considering beforehand to understand all of its components.

• Fixed rate plans. With a fixed rate plan, you will have a set price you will pay for the length of your contract. This price will not change regardless of fluctuations in the energy market.
• Variable rate plans. Variable rate plans are tied directly to the energy market, which changes constantly. The price you pay for energy will vary each month depending on changes in the market.
• Prepaid plans. With this plan structure, you will pay for energy before you use it and will receive alerts throughout the month of how much money you have left in your account. This is also a popular no deposit and no credit check option.
• Renewable energy plans. Many providers offer renewable energy options for consumers. Some companies offer renewable energy credits (RECs) to offset your home’s environmental footprint, while others source 100 percent renewable power.

If you do not purchase energy from an independent provider, you will be enrolled in the basic service supply product from your local utility, either Eversource Energy, National Grid, or Unitil. Enter your ZIP code above to compare available rates and plans in your area.

In Massachusetts, consumers can purchase their electricity from the local utility company or an energy supplier. Eversource Energy is the main utility in this region, serving more than 3.6 million customers across Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire. Additionally, National Grid and Unitil (Fitchburg Gas & Electric) also serve areas throughout the state.

Beyond this, residential and business customers can choose from a variety of energy providers, including Constellation Energy, Direct Energy, Clearview Energy and more. Regardless of which supplier you choose, your local utility company will still deliver the power to your home. The utility is also responsible in the case of emergencies or power outages.

Choose Energy is an online energy marketplace focused on empowering energy choice across the country. We want to demystify the energy industry and will help you find electricity rates in your area by working with top providers. Here’s how it works:

1. Enter your ZIP code. Compare plans and rates in your area to find what works for you. We get paid by our partners so you can shop for free.
2. Pick a plan. When you find one you like, sign up online or over the phone in a few minutes. Or, give one of our experts a call and they’ll help you decide.
3. Enjoy your choice. Your new provider will handle the set up for you. Your work is done!