Montana Electricity Rates
Analysis of 404 ZIP codes across 360 cities
Montana Electricity Market Overview
Montana ranks #12 nationally with residential rates at 12.54¢/kWh, which is 24.8% below the national average of 16.68¢/kWh. The state operates a regulated electricity market with rates set by the public utilities commission.
ZIP Code Rate Distribution
ZIP code statistics not available
Montana ZIP Codes with Electricity Rates
404 ZIP codesMontana Electricity Rates - Complete Analysis
Montana residential electricity rates average 12.54¢/kWh, positioning the state at #12 among all 50 states. This comprehensive analysis covers 404 ZIP codes across 360 cities, providing the most detailed electricity rate information available for Montana residents and businesses.
Current Montana Electricity Rates by Sector
| Customer Type | Montana Rate | US Average | Difference | Monthly Bill* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | 12.54¢/kWh | 16.68¢/kWh | ↓24.8% | $125.40 |
| Commercial | 12.11¢/kWh | 13.08¢/kWh | ↓ Lower | $605.31 |
| Industrial | 7.80¢/kWh | 9.55¢/kWh | ↓ Lower | $3900.10 |
*Monthly bills estimated at 1,000 kWh (residential), 5,000 kWh (commercial), 50,000 kWh (industrial)
Montana Electricity Rate History
Over the past 5 years, Montana electricity rates have decreased by 82.1%, bucking the national trend. The most significant change occurred between 2021 and 2022, largely due to regulatory adjustments and infrastructure investments.
Montana Electricity Rates Release Schedule
Montana Electricity Rates 2026
The official 2026 electricity rates for Montana will be released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) in December 2026. These rates will reflect market conditions, fuel costs, and infrastructure investments throughout 2026. Based on current trends, Montana residential rates for 2026 are projected to range between 11.91¢ and 13.17¢ per kWh.
Montana Electricity Rates 2027
Montana electricity rates for 2027 will be available in December 2027 through the EIA's annual electric power industry report. The 2027 rates will incorporate renewable energy transitions, grid modernization efforts, and evolving energy policies in Montana. Early projections suggest rates may remain below the national average.
Montana Electricity Rates 2028
Looking ahead to 2028, Montana electricity rates will be published in December 2028. Factors that will influence 2028 rates include regulatory decisions, infrastructure upgrades, and federal energy policies. Historical trends suggest Montana rates typically change by 3-5% annually.
Data Source: All current and historical rates are sourced from the EIA Form 861 annual reports. This page will be updated immediately when new data becomes available.
Major Montana Cities - Electricity Rates Comparison
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Montana Electric Utility Companies
Montana is served by multiple electric utility companies, operating in a regulated market where rates are set by the state public utilities commission.
Browse all utility companies → |View Montana energy profile on EIA.gov →
Frequently Asked Questions About Montana Electricity Rates
What is the average electricity rate in Montana?
The average residential electricity rate in Montana is 12.54¢ per kWh. This rate varies by location, with ZIP codes ranging from 8.28¢ to 18.70¢ per kWh across the state.
How does Montana compare to the national average?
Montana electricity rates are currently 24.8% below the national average of 16.68¢/kWh, ranking #12 among all 50 states. This makes Montana a relatively affordable state for electricity costs.
Can I choose my electricity provider in Montana?
Montana operates a regulated electricity market, which means your utility provider is determined by your location. While you cannot choose your provider, rates are regulated by the state's public utilities commission to ensure fairness.
What factors affect electricity rates in Montana?
Several factors influence Montana electricity rates including: fuel costs (natural gas, coal, renewables), transmission and distribution infrastructure, weather patterns affecting demand, regulatory policies, and the mix of energy sources used for generation. Montana's unique geography and energy resources also play a significant role in determining rates.
When will newer electricity rates for Montana be available?
Official electricity rates are released by the U.S. Energy Information Administration approximately 12 months after each reporting year. 2025 rates will become available in December 2026, 2026 rates in December 2027, and so on. We update this page immediately when new data is released.
How to Lower Your Electricity Bill in Montana
Quick Energy-Saving Tips
- ✓Set thermostat to 78°F in summer, 68°F in winter
- ✓Use LED bulbs - save up to 75% on lighting costs
- ✓Unplug devices when not in use to avoid phantom loads
- ✓Run major appliances during off-peak hours
- ✓Regular HVAC maintenance can improve efficiency by 15%
Long-Term Savings Strategies
- ✓Install a programmable or smart thermostat
- ✓Improve home insulation and seal air leaks
- ✓Consider ENERGY STAR certified appliances
- ✓Explore solar panel options for Montana homes
- ✓Check for utility rebate programs
Potential Savings: The average Montana household can save 10-25% on electricity bills by implementing these energy-saving measures. With current rates at 12.54¢/kWh, this could mean savings of $226 to $376 annually.