When will 2026 electricity rates for 02163 be published?

2026 electricity rates for ZIP code 02163 are expected to be published in December 2027. The EIA maintains a consistent 12-month lag in publishing annual electricity data to ensure completeness and accuracy. Once 2026 ends, utilities have several months to compile and submit their data to the EIA, which then validates and processes the information before public release. We will update our database immediately upon the EIA's release of 2026 data, expected in late 2027.

Will 2027 electricity rates be available for 02163?

2027 electricity rates for ZIP code 02163 will be available in December 2028, following the EIA's standard publication timeline. The 12-month delay ensures all utilities nationwide have submitted complete and verified data. Currently, we have comprehensive historical data from 1970 through 2024, showing long-term rate trends for Boston. This historical perspective helps predict future rate patterns while we await official 2027 data.

What electricity rate data is currently available for 02163?

For ZIP code 02163, we currently have complete residential electricity rate data from 1970 through 2024. This includes annual rates, utility provider information, comparisons with state and national averages, and historical trends. The most recent data (2024) was released by the EIA in December 2025. Future updates will include: 2025 rates (December 2026), 2026 rates (December 2027), and 2027 rates (December 2028). All data comes directly from EIA Form 861, the most authoritative source for U.S. electricity rates.

Why are electricity rates high in 02163?

Electricity rates in 02163 are 79.3% higher than the national average. Higher rates may be due to factors including: local infrastructure maintenance costs, transmission and distribution expenses, fuel costs for power generation, regulatory compliance, seasonal demand (especially summer cooling in MA), and utility-specific operational costs. Since this is a deregulated market, shopping for competitive rates from different providers may help reduce costs.

What is the cheapest electricity provider in Boston?

In Boston, electricity rates vary by provider. NSTAR Electric Company offers rates starting at 29.91¢/kWh. To find the cheapest provider: 1) Compare rates on the state's Power to Choose website, 2) Look for introductory rates and contract terms, 3) Check for hidden fees like connection charges or early termination penalties, 4) Consider time-of-use plans if you can shift usage to off-peak hours, and 5) Review customer ratings for reliability. Rates change frequently, so check current offers before switching.

How much electricity does a house use in MA?

The average home in MA uses approximately 800-1,000 kWh per month, though usage varies significantly by home size, season, and efficiency. Usage peaks during extreme weather months for heating or cooling. At 02163's rate of 29.91¢/kWh, monthly bills typically range from $239-$419. Factors affecting usage include: home size and insulation, HVAC system efficiency, number of occupants, appliance age and efficiency ratings, and whether you have a pool, electric vehicle, or electric water heater.

When do electricity rates go up in MA?

Electricity rates in MA typically fluctuate based on several factors: 1) Seasonal Peaks: Summer cooling or winter heating drives 10-20% increases. 2) Fuel Cost Adjustments: Quarterly changes based on generation costs. 3) Infrastructure Updates: Annual rate cases may adjust base rates. 4) Peak Demand Hours: Daily peaks (morning and evening) have higher rates. In deregulated markets, lock in fixed rates during low-demand periods (spring/fall) to avoid seasonal spikes.

Is electricity cheaper at night in MA?

Yes, many providers in MA offer time-of-use (TOU) plans where electricity is 30-50% cheaper at night (typically 9 PM - 6 AM). Off-peak rates can be as low as 17.9¢/kWh compared to peak rates of 44.9¢/kWh or higher. Night rates are cheaper because: 1) Lower overall demand reduces strain on the grid, 2) Base-load power plants run more efficiently, 3) Renewable energy (wind) is often more available at night in some regions. To maximize savings: run major appliances (dishwasher, washer/dryer) at night, charge electric vehicles overnight, use programmable thermostats to pre-cool or pre-heat during off-peak hours, and consider battery storage if you have solar panels.

⚡ 02163 Electric Rates

Boston•MA

💡 29.91¢/kWh

👥 1,852

29.91¢per kWh79.3% above US avg

ZIP code 02163 in Boston, MA has a residential electricity rate of 29.91¢/kWh as of 2024, which is 79.3% higher than the national average of 16.68¢/kWh and 1.0% above the MA state average of 29.61¢/kWh.

This higher rate reflects MA's energy infrastructure costs, renewable energy investments, and regional market conditions. Despite higher rates, many residents offset costs through energy efficiency programs and solar installations.

Monthly Bill Estimates

Small (500 kWh)$150

Average (900 kWh)$269

Large (1,400 kWh)$419

Primary Provider

NSTAR Electric Company

✓ Deregulated market - You can choose your provider

Population: 1,852

ZIP Code 02163 Rate Comparison Map

Boston, MA • Compare rates with nearby areas

Rates range from 29.91¢ to 29.91¢ in this area

Loading map...

Click any ZIP code to view details • Darker colors indicate higher rates • Map data © OpenStreetMap

📊 Comprehensive Rate Analysis for 02163

The electricity market in Boston presents unique characteristics that influence your rates.While 02163 pays more than the MA average, this is often due to localized factors such as transmission infrastructure, urban density, and specific utility operational costs.

Key Market Insights

Regional Context: MA ranks among states nationally for residential electricity rates. Your specific ZIP code is slightly higher than the state average.
Surprising Comparison: Residents in 02163 pay 79% more than the national average, which means an extra $1429 per year for a typical household.
Market Structure: As a deregulated market, MA allows you to choose from multiple electricity suppliers, creating competitive pricing opportunities. Shopping for rates could save 10-20% on your electricity costs.

Rate Trend Analysis

Historical data shows that MA electricity rates have fluctuated over the past decade. The current rate of 29.91¢/kWh represents higher costs compared to the state's trajectory. Looking forward, rates are influenced by factors including renewable energy transitions, infrastructure investments, and natural gas prices.

📊 Rate Comparison

ZIP 02163Current ZIP29.91¢/kWh

29.9¢

Nat'l Avg

MA Average29.61¢/kWh

29.6¢

National Average16.68¢/kWh

16.7¢

Low (≤10¢)

Average (15-20¢)

High (>25¢)

Your ZIP

Quick Summary:

The current ZIP code rate is 29.91¢/kWh, compared to the national average of 16.68¢/kWh.

⚡ Your Electric Company

🏆 You Have Choice! MA lets you shop for electricity providers. Learn more →

Available Retail Providers:

TXU Energy

Variable Rate

30.51¢

per kWh

Constellation

Time-of-Use

Save 0.30¢/kWh

29.61¢

per kWh

Champion Energy

Green Choice

Save 1.20¢/kWh

28.72¢

per kWh

Compare all providers at PowerToChoose.org

MA Residential Electricity Rates 1970-2024

Caption: MA residential electricity rates from 1970-2024 (¢/kWh)

Source: EIA State Energy Data System (SEDS) • Rates shown in cents per kilowatt-hour

What Uses Electricity in Your Home?

Understanding where your electricity goes in Boston

📊

Average electricity usage patterns for your region

Usage varies by season, with peaks during extreme temperatures. Energy-efficient appliances and smart thermostats can reduce consumption.

🌡️

Air Conditioning & Heating

Climate control year-round

35%

≈$83.76/mo

35%

💧

Water Heating

Hot water for showers, dishes, and laundry

16%

≈$38.29/mo

16%

🔌

Appliances

Refrigerator, washer, dryer, dishwasher

15%

≈$35.90/mo

15%

💡

Lighting

Indoor and outdoor lighting

≈$21.54/mo

📺

Electronics

TVs, computers, gaming consoles

10%

≈$23.93/mo

10%

⚡

Other

Miscellaneous devices

10%

≈$23.93/mo

10%

Estimated Monthly Total

Based on 800 kWh at 29.91¢/kWh

$239.31

* Usage percentages are estimates based on EIA Residential Energy Consumption Survey (RECS) data for the South Census Region. Actual usage varies by household.

Quick Ways to Reduce Usage

•Use programmable thermostat

•Switch to LED light bulbs (75% savings)

•Run appliances during off-peak hours

•Seal drafts around windows and doors

💰 Save Money Tips

Shop Around

Compare suppliers for better rates

Smart Thermostat

Save 10-23% on heating/cooling costs

LED Bulbs

Use 80% less energy, last 25x longer

Solar Panels

Reduce bills with federal tax credits

📍 Location Stats

ZIP Code:02163

City:Boston

State:MA

Population:1,852

Current Rate

29.91¢

🗺️ Nearby Areas

🔗 Quick Links

🏛️ MA Overview 🧮 Bill Calculator 📊 State Rankings ⚡ NSTAR Utility

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average electricity rate in ZIP code 02163?

The average residential electricity rate in ZIP code 02163 is 29.91¢ per kilowatt-hour (kWh) as of 2025. This rate is 79.3% higher than the national average of 16.68¢/kWh and is provided primarily by NSTAR Electric Company.

Who is the electric company for 02163?

NSTAR Electric Company is the primary electricity provider for ZIP code 02163. This investor-owned utility serves the area with a residential rate of 29.91¢/kWh.

What is the average monthly electric bill in 02163?

The average monthly electric bill in ZIP code 02163 is approximately $269.22, based on the average residential rate of 29.91¢/kWh and typical household usage of 900 kWh per month. Bills can range from $149.57 for smaller homes (500 kWh) to $448.71 for larger homes (1,500 kWh). Actual bills will vary based on usage, season, and additional fees.

Is 02163 in a deregulated electricity area?

Yes, ZIP code 02163 is located in MA, which has a deregulated electricity market. This means residents and businesses can choose their electricity supplier from multiple retail energy providers, potentially finding better rates or renewable energy options. The utility company still delivers the electricity and maintains the power lines, but you can shop for the best energy supply rate.

How does 02163 compare to other ZIP codes in MA?

ZIP code 02163 has an electricity rate of 29.91¢/kWh, while the MA state average is 29.61¢/kWh — making the state average 1.0% cheaper than this ZIP. This ZIP code's rates are higher than the state average, which may be due to local infrastructure costs, transmission distances, or utility-specific factors. Compare with nearby ZIP codes to find potential savings in your area.

When will 2025 electricity rates be available?

2025 electricity rates for ZIP code 02163 will be available in December 2026 when the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) publishes its annual Form 861 report. The EIA collects data from all U.S. electric utilities and releases the complete dataset approximately 12 months after the reporting year. ElectricityExplorer updates all rates within 48 hours of each new EIA release. The current data shown reflects 2024 rates, which is the most recent complete annual data available.

📊Data Sources & Update Schedule

Current Data Version: 2024 Annual Data (Released December 2025)

Data Source	Coverage Period	Next Update Expected
EIA Form 861	2024 rates	December 2026 (2025 data)
NREL Utility Rates	2024 rates	Q1 2026
SEDS Historical	1970-2024	December 2026

How We Calculate Rates

Residential electricity rates are calculated from EIA Form 861 data using the formula:

Total Revenue ÷ Total Sales (MWh) = Average Rate per kWh

Why 2024 Data in 2026?

The EIA publishes annual electricity data approximately 12 months after the reporting year ends. The most current complete dataset available is 2024, released in December 2025. We update our database within 48 hours of each new EIA release.

Looking for 2025, 2026, or 2027 rates?

2025 electricity rates for ZIP code 02163: Will be available in December 2026 when the EIA releases the 2025 annual report.

2026 electricity rates for ZIP code 02163: Expected in December 2027 following the standard 12-month reporting cycle.

2027 electricity rates for ZIP code 02163: Projected release in December 2028 based on historical EIA publication patterns.

📊 Historical Data Available:

We currently have complete residential electricity rate data from 1970 through 2024 for all US ZIP codes, cities, and states.

Data accuracy verified through multiple sources • Updated within 48 hours of new releases