With electricity prices varying across the U.S.—from California's high of 32.56 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) to Louisiana’s low of 11.50 cents per kWh—knowing what you’ll pay and how much energy you’re likely to use is crucial. Here’s your November 2024 update on Pennsylvania electricity rates, expected usage patterns, and tips for reducing your bill this month.

How much does electricity cost right now?

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

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The average utility supply rate in Pennsylvania for November 2024 is around 10.459¢ per kWh cents, depending on your utility provider. With winter around the corner, PA residents should prepare for the seasonal rise in electricity demand and costs. Here’s the current breakdown of electricity rates across all major PA utilities, from most expensive to least expensive: 

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These rates will likely remain steady until the Spring, but keep an eye out for mid-term rate changes.

These current rates across all PA utilities are not set to expire until the Spring, but both Penelec Power in Lancaster in Duquesne Light in Pittsburgh already issues mid-term rate hikes this Fall:

• In Altoona, Bedford, Erie, Somerset, Troy, Warren, and Johnstown, Penelec electricity customers will be paying 13% more starting December 1.
• In the Pittsburgh metro area, Duquesne Light customers started paying 10% more on October 1.

How much energy can I expect to use in November?

With cooler fall temperatures arriving, your household’s energy usage will likely fluctuate. In Pennsylvania, depending on where you live and how often you’re running your heating system, your usage may vary widely. On average, households in PA can expect to use about 791 kWh this month according to data from Arbor users and the EIA, putting the state in the very high range for consumption.

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

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PA's average usage of 791 kWh places it higher than most states, and with heating needs expected to pick-up over the next few months, you should expect to use somewhere on the higher end of that average.

How much will my power bill cost this month?

If you’re wondering what your power bill might look like this November, there are several factors that go into your power bill totals, including your supply charge (the price you pay per kWh). Here are some other key charges that will impact the total amount you pay:

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While it's hard to predict what your potential delivery charges, taxes and fees might be, we can take a look at what the supply portion of your bill is likely to cost this monthly depending on where you live. It starts with a simple calculation:

Monthly Bill = Average Usage (kWh) × Rate (¢/kWh) ÷ 100

For a Pennsylvania household with average usage of 791 kWh and a rate of 10.459¢ per kWh, your estimated supply charge in November would look like this:

Monthly Bill = 791kWh×10.495¢/kWh÷100

Monthly Bill = $83.01

Your actual bill will vary depending on your household’s specific energy consumption and size, but this calculation gives you a good sense of what to expect. Keep in mind, bills will fluctuate with colder temperatures leading to higher heating needs in the winter months.

How can I save? What rates are available?

Massachusetts deregulated energy market allows homeowners to shop for competitive electricity rates. This can provide savings compared to the default utility rates. Here’s an overview of the some of the competitive rates currently available in Pennsylvania. These are rates that are  available now in the state that are lower than the current utility rate:

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As of November 14, 2024

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

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