Electricity Rate in New Jersey (2026): 18.27c/kWh Average
New Jersey Electricity Rate: What You Need to Know
New Jersey electricity averages 18.27 cents per kWh for residential customers as of April 2026, according to the EIA Electric Power Monthly. This is 0.62c above the US average of 17.65c/kWh. The average monthly bill for New Jersey households is $127 based on typical usage of 697 kWh.
New Jersey's 18.27c/kWh rate reflects its position in the PJM capacity market, where capacity prices have been elevated due to retirements of older generation and growing demand. New Jersey uses a Basic Generation Service (BGS) auction system where competitive suppliers bid to serve default-service customers, meaning even 'default' customers benefit from some competition. Retail choice is additionally available through the NJBPU's comparison portal. PSE&G (serving Northeast NJ including Newark, Hoboken, Jersey City), JCP&L (serving Central NJ), and Atlantic City Electric (serving South NJ) are the three main utilities. New Jersey has an active offshore wind program with several large projects approved, which will add renewable generation over 2026-2030.
Generation mix: Natural gas 45%, nuclear 40%, solar 10%, wind 5%. The fuel mix is a primary driver of electricity rates - states with abundant hydro or nuclear tend to have lower rates, while states dependent on imported petroleum (Hawaii) or natural gas pay more.
Year-over-year change: New Jersey rates rose 5.4% year-over-year as of April 2026. This compares to the US average increase of 5.4% over the same period.
Deregulated: You Can Shop for a Better Rate
BGS auctions set default; PSE&G / JCP&L / Atlantic City Electric wires; competitive supply optional via NJBPU
How to shop for a better rate ->Your New Jersey Electricity Bill Components
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