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How much will electricity cost in Pennsylvania this winter? Highlights of the month of November

A view of the Pittsburgh city skyline during the winter in Pennsylvania.

With electricity prices varying across the United States – from a high of 32.56 cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) in California to a low of 11.50 cents per kWh in Louisiana – it is crucial to know what what you’ll pay and how much energy you’re likely to use. Arbor shares a November 2024 update on Pennsylvania electricity rates, expected usage patterns and tips for lowering your bill this month.

How much does electricity cost now?

In Pennsylvania, the cost of electricity is heavily influenced by the electricity supply rate, which is the price paid per unit of electricity (measured in kilowatt hours or kWh). There are two types of supply rates:

• Tariff for the provision of public services: This is the standard rate offered by the local utility company. Most pay this rate unless they turn to a third-party provider.
• Tariff for supply by third parties: In Massachusetts’ deregulated energy market, consumers can also choose a third-party energy provider that offers competitive rates, which can sometimes be lower than the utility’s standard supply rate.

The average utility delivery rate in Pennsylvania for November 2024 is approximately 10.459¢ per kWh cents, depending on the utility provider. As winter approaches, PA residents should prepare for seasonal increases in electricity demand and costs. Here is the current breakdown of electricity rates for all major utilities in PA, from most expensive to least expensive:

Arbor

Rates stable until spring, with rate changes in the medium term

Table showing electricity rates for major PA utilities.

These rates for PennPower, MetEd, Penelec and West Penn Power all go into effect December 1 and all represent an increase of approximately 10% from the previous price. These rates for all PA utilities aren’t scheduled to expire until spring, but Duquesne Light in Pittsburgh has also already announced mid-term rate hikes this fall, with customers in the Pittsburgh metro area paying 10% more. no more from October 1st.

How much energy can I expect to consume in November?

As cooler fall temperatures arrive, household energy consumption will likely fluctuate. In Pennsylvania, depending on the location and frequency of operation of the heating system, usage can vary greatly. On average, PA households can expect to use about 791 kWh this month, according to Arbor and EIA user dataplacing the state in the very high consumption bracket.

Here’s a look at how PA compares to other states in terms of energy consumption:

Arbor

PA’s above-average energy consumption expected to increase with winter heating demand

Bar chart showing how PA compares to other states in energy consumption.

PA’s average consumption of 791 kWh puts it above that of most states, and as heating needs are expected to increase in the coming months, residents should expect to use somewhere in the upper range of this average.

Arbor

How much will my electricity bill cost this month?

Table showing average electricity consumption by state.

For those wondering what their electricity bill might look like in November, several factors factor into your electricity bill total, including supply charges (the price paid per kWh). Here are some other key fees that will impact the total amount paid:

• Delivery costs: Utility charges for delivering electricity or gas to each household. This includes maintaining infrastructure, such as power lines and pipes, and can vary by location.
• Capacity fees: Some regions charge to ensure that sufficient energy capacity is available to meet peak demand, particularly during periods of high consumption such as summer.
• Taxes and fees: These may include local, state, and federal taxes, as well as regulatory and environmental fees.
• Metering and service fees: Utilities may charge for meter reading and maintenance, as well as general account services.

While it is difficult to predict what potential delivery charges, taxes and fees might be, the supply portion of your monthly bill can be determined based on where you live. It starts with a simple calculation:

Monthly bill = average usage (kWh) × rate (¢/kWh) ÷ 100

For a Pennsylvania household with an average consumption of 791 kWh and a rate of 10,459¢ per kWh, your estimated supply costs in November would look like this:

Monthly bill = 791kWh×10.495¢/kWh÷100

Monthly bill = $83.01

The actual bill will vary depending on the specific energy consumption and the size of your household, but this calculation gives a good idea of ​​what to expect. Keep in mind that bills will fluctuate with colder temperatures, resulting in higher heating needs during the winter months.

Pennsylvania’s deregulated energy market allows homeowners to purchase competitive electricity rates. This can provide savings compared to default utility rates. Here’s a look at some of the competitive rates currently available in Pennsylvania. These are rates currently available in the state that are lower than the current utility rate:

Arbor

How can I save? What rates are available?

Table showing potential savings by supplier.

These savings can be substantial over time, especially with electricity prices rising this winter. Keep in mind that rates can fluctuate, so it’s always a good idea to regularly compare available rates and make the change when it makes sense for your household.

This story was produced by Arbor and edited and distributed by Stacker.