Compare Virginia electricity rates and plans (March 2025)

What to know about electricity rates in Virginia

• The average Virginia electricity rate is 14.50 cents per kWh while the average national rate is 16.06 cents
• The cheapest electricity rate is 4.14 cents per kWh for Virginia residents
• Virginia's deregulated electricity market includes 170 providers

Best Virginia electricity rates

Virginia electricity rates range from 4.14 cents to 18.54 cents per kWh. The rates you find vary depending on the providers and plans available to you, and comparing companies is the best way to find better rates. Below are some rates from popular electric companies in Virginia.

Because Virginia has a deregulated electricity market, you have the flexibility to shop around for a cheaper electricity bill. Many states don't offer this choice. If you're looking to reduce your energy bill, consider switching to a different provider or plan. Virginia electricity providers offer different types of plans for residents and businesses to satisfy a range of needs.

Average cost of electricity in Virginia

According to our data, the average electricity rate in Virginia is 14.50 cents per kWh. This equates to an average residential bill of $147.60 per month. The national average rate is 16.06 cents per kWh, and Virginia ranks as the 23rd lowest priced state in the nation.

Since the average price is 14.50 cents per kWh or $147.60 per month for residential electricity, prices lower than these can be considered affordable. Electricity rates in Virginia depend on your home size and usage, so the kWh rate is more useful when comparing your rate to the average.

Best electricity plans

In Virginia, the best electricity plans provide competitive rates, renewable energy options, and fixed or variable pricing. Top providers offer reliability, transparency, and customer incentives so you can save money and enjoy responsive support.

We've analyzed the prices, terms, and conditions of popular Virginia electricity plans. Below are our picks for the best residential plans in the state.

Provider	Contract Term	Rate	Plan
	24 months	68.0¢/kWh	See Plan
	12 months	68.9¢/kWh	See Plan
	24 months	77.0¢/kWh	See Plan
	12 months	77.9¢/kWh	See Plan
See All Plans

Compare Virginia electricity providers

There are 32 electricity providers in Virginia. While some providers only serve specific areas, you have multiple options for electricity wherever you are. Different providers can offer different specials, plan types, and sales throughout the year. However, always read the fine print of the energy plans you consider to avoid hidden penalties.

Business electricity rates in Virginia

Commercial rates are typically cheaper than residential rates in Virginia because businesses consume much more energy than homes on average. Businesses basically get a volume discount on electricity since they use so much. Our data shows the average business in Virginia pays 9.13 cents per kWh for electricity and has an average bill of $119,239 per month.

Finding ways to reduce overhead costs is essential as a business owner. You have the opportunity to do that in a deregulated electricity market. Even reducing your electricity by one or two cents per kWh can make a huge difference when you have a high monthly bill. Compare commercial electricity rates to find the plan that makes the most sense for your business.

Best commercial electricity plans

Below are the top commercial electricity plans in Virginia.

Provider	Contract Term	Rate	Plan
	3 months	43.14¢/kWh	See Plan
	6 months	45.33¢/kWh	See Plan
	9 months	45.95¢/kWh	See Plan
	12 months	47.08¢/kWh	See Plan
	18 months	49.24¢/kWh	See Plan
	24 months	50.20¢/kWh	See Plan
	36 months	52.00¢/kWh	See Plan
	48 months	52.49¢/kWh	See Plan
	60 months	52.70¢/kWh	See Plan
See All Plans

How to switch Virginia electricity companies

Looking to switch your Virginia electricity provider? The process requires a few steps:

• Locate your Service Delivery Identifier (SDI) number on your power bill.
• Choose a Competitive Service Provider (CSP) after comparing rates and terms.
• Provide your SDI to the new provider to initiate the switch.
• Wait for a confirmation letter and allow 10 days for review.
• Expect the switch to occur on your next meter read date.

Remember that you can only switch providers once per billing cycle.

Before making the change, it's important to review rates, understand contract terms, and check for any switching fees.

Consider each provider's reliability and customer service reputation.

When is the best time to switch energy providers in Virginia?

Timing plays a role when switching energy providers in Virginia, as several factors can impact your potential savings.

Keep these tips in mind:

• Wait until your current contract expires to avoid early termination fees
• Monitor market conditions for rate hikes or promotional offers
• Reflect on seasonal rate changes, which often occur during peak usage months
• Watch for regulatory changes that expand off-peak incentive programs

The best time to switch typically occurs when:

• Your usage patterns align with off-peak hours
• Smart meter installation is complete (if required)
• You've thoroughly compared available rate plans
• Current customer feedback indicates provider reliability

How deregulated electricity works in Virginia

Since Virginia initiated energy market reforms in 2007, the state has maintained a unique hybrid system of deregulated electricity that affects how you purchase and receive power.

The system allows certain customers to choose their electricity providers while maintaining regulated distribution networks.

Under this structure, you'll find:

• Distribution remains regulated, with utilities managing power lines
• Large consumers (>5MW) can select their providers
• Homeowners seeking 100% renewable energy can choose suppliers
• PJM operates the regional transmission grid
• All distributors purchase power through wholesale markets

While full deregulation isn't available, the system balances competition with reliability through regulated infrastructure and selective provider choice.

Types of electricity plans in Virginia

Virginia's electricity providers offer several distinct plan types designed to match different consumption patterns and energy preferences.

You'll find options ranging from time-based pricing to renewable energy solutions.

The Smart Time of Use Plan lets you save by shifting electricity usage to off-peak hours, including weekends and holidays.

You can also choose specialized options like:

• Community Solar Rider with 50 kWh block subscriptions
• Electric Vehicle Rider with off-peak charging rebates
• 100% Renewable Energy Attributes Rider
• Peak Time Rebate programs

Compare Virginia electricity rates

Compare Virginia electricity rates to save money and avoid overpaying in the deregulated market. Your bill can vary greatly depending on the provider and plan structure. Take the time to read the fine print and do the math to figure out which is your best option.

Virginia electricity rate FAQs