Compare New York electricity rates

New Yorkers gained access to energy choice in 1998, when the state government decided to deregulate the electric portion of New York’s energy market. This meant that utility companies, such as Con Ed, National Grid, and others, no longer had a monopoly on the areas they served. Instead, it allowed for competition among energy service companies, also called ESCOs.

This means that businesses and residents in New York have access to lower electric rates, brought down by market competition. The deregulation system is managed by the New York Public Service Commission (PSC), which approves licenses for ESCOs and regulates utility prices. It also runs the New York Power to Choose program, which educates residents about their deregulated options.

Electricity deregulation gives New York consumers many options for their energy supply – which can be overwhelming. If you’re new to the system, take a look at some of our best guides to energy choice, or keep reading for an overview of the most common electric plans you’ll see in the Choose Energy marketplace.

• How do I choose the right electricity plan?
• Will I have to pay a deposit?
• How do I switch energy providers?
• How can I lower my electricity bill?

When you look for an electricity plan, the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) will tell you key information about what you are selecting, including the type of rate, how much of your energy comes from green sources, and the like. Below is some common terminology to look out for:

• Fixed rate. These types of plans set certain rates for the cost of energy and keep them the same for your entire contract. You could have one rate or different tiers depending on how much energy you use and when you use it, but the prices for each of these will not change.
• Variable rate. Variable plans follow the energy market, which means their prices change often. When you choose a variable plan you are able to pay less when energy demand is low, but you also might get hit with a price spike when demand increases.
• Prepaid. Prepaid electricity plans are popular because they don’t require credit checks or deposits. You only pay for as much energy as you need and can top up your account as you need more.
• Renewable energy. Many New York ESCOs offer renewable energy options, but not all green plans are the same. When an ESCO offers green energy, this could mean they only get power from solar and wind farms, they purchase renewable energy credits (RECs), or the offset the energy that you use.

While New Yorkers have the option to buy energy from an ESCO, you can still stay with your area’s utility company if their rate or plan works better for you. If you do not choose an ESCO, your utility will automatically supply you with Standard Offer Service (SOS). The SOS rate is also your area’s rate to compare. When you shop offers from energy companies you can use the rate to compare to decide if you can find cheaper service elsewhere. Enter your ZIP code above to shop ESCOs in your area.

In the deregulated electricity system, consumers can choose to stay with their area’s utility company or purchase energy from an ESCO. Regardless or what you choose, your utility company will still deliver your energy and maintain power lines. If you experience a power outage or have a power emergency, contact your utility company. Utility companies in New York include:

• Central Hudson Gas & Electric
• National Grid Keyspan
• Consolidated Edison Co. (Con Ed)
• Rochester Gas & Electric

As for ESCOs, there are many to choose from, including Constellation, Public Power, and Clearview Energy. Since your utility company will still deliver your power, you will get the same reliable service regardless of which ESCO you choose. The only thing that will change is the price you pay – and that’s a good thing!

As a national online energy marketplace, Choose Energy powers electric and natural gas choice across the country. We work with top energy companies to show you a variety of plans and rates in your area and help you sign up, all in one place. All it takes is a few steps:

1. Enter your ZIP code. We’ll show you energy rates from ESCOs in your area. We get paid by the companies we work with so you can shop at no charge.
2. Choose your plan. Filter by rate type, term length and more to find what works for you. Sign up online or over the phone in just a few minutes.
3. Enjoy your new rate. The ESCO you choose will handle the set up for you with no interruptions. Your work is done!