North Carolina Electricity Rates
Analysis of 1,079 ZIP codes across 758 cities
North Carolina Electricity Market Overview
North Carolina ranks #16 nationally with residential rates at 12.93¢/kWh, which is 22.5% 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
North Carolina ZIP Codes with Electricity Rates
1,079 ZIP codesNorth Carolina Electricity Rates - Complete Analysis
North Carolina residential electricity rates average 12.93¢/kWh, positioning the state at #16 among all 50 states. This comprehensive analysis covers 1,079 ZIP codes across 758 cities, providing the most detailed electricity rate information available for North Carolina residents and businesses.
Current North Carolina Electricity Rates by Sector
| Customer Type | North Carolina Rate | US Average | Difference | Monthly Bill* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Residential | 12.93¢/kWh | 16.68¢/kWh | ↓22.5% | $129.29 |
| Commercial | 9.67¢/kWh | 13.08¢/kWh | ↓ Lower | $483.68 |
| Industrial | 7.15¢/kWh | 9.55¢/kWh | ↓ Lower | $3572.55 |
*Monthly bills estimated at 1,000 kWh (residential), 5,000 kWh (commercial), 50,000 kWh (industrial)
North Carolina Electricity Rate History
Over the past 5 years, North Carolina electricity rates have decreased by 85.6%, bucking the national trend. The most significant change occurred between 2021 and 2022, largely due to regulatory adjustments and infrastructure investments.
North Carolina Electricity Rates Release Schedule
North Carolina Electricity Rates 2026
The official 2026 electricity rates for North Carolina 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, North Carolina residential rates for 2026 are projected to range between 12.28¢ and 13.58¢ per kWh.
North Carolina Electricity Rates 2027
North Carolina 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 North Carolina. Early projections suggest rates may remain below the national average.
North Carolina Electricity Rates 2028
Looking ahead to 2028, North Carolina 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 North Carolina 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 North Carolina Cities - Electricity Rates Comparison
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North Carolina Electric Utility Companies
North Carolina 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 North Carolina energy profile on EIA.gov →
Frequently Asked Questions About North Carolina Electricity Rates
What is the average electricity rate in North Carolina?
The average residential electricity rate in North Carolina is 12.93¢ per kWh. This rate varies by location, with ZIP codes ranging from 8.28¢ to 18.70¢ per kWh across the state.
How does North Carolina compare to the national average?
North Carolina electricity rates are currently 22.5% below the national average of 16.68¢/kWh, ranking #16 among all 50 states. This makes North Carolina a relatively affordable state for electricity costs.
Can I choose my electricity provider in North Carolina?
North Carolina 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 North Carolina?
Several factors influence North Carolina 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. North Carolina's unique geography and energy resources also play a significant role in determining rates.
When will newer electricity rates for North Carolina 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 North Carolina
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 North Carolina homes
- ✓Check for utility rebate programs
Potential Savings: The average North Carolina household can save 10-25% on electricity bills by implementing these energy-saving measures. With current rates at 12.93¢/kWh, this could mean savings of $233 to $388 annually.