📍 Washington Energy Guide

Gas & Electricity Rates in Washington

Washington has the lowest electricity rates of any major state, thanks to abundant hydroelectric power from the Columbia River system. The state is regulated, and utilities offer some of the most competitive rates in the nation.

14.95¢/kWh
Avg. Electric Rate
$1.17/therm
Avg. Gas Rate
$113
Monthly Electric Bill
$71
Monthly Gas Bill

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Electricity Rate
14.95¢/kWh
per kilowatt-hour
🔥
Natural Gas Rate
$1.17/therm
per therm
🧾
Avg Electric Bill
$113
per month
💰
Avg Gas Bill
$71
per month

Understanding Energy in Washington

Washington has the lowest electricity rates of any major state, thanks to abundant hydroelectric power from the Columbia River system. The state is regulated, and utilities offer some of the most competitive rates in the nation.

Washington has a regulated electricity market. Your utility is the only electricity provider in your area, but rates are reviewed and approved by the state's public utility commission to ensure they are fair and reasonable.

The state's primary electric utilities include Puget Sound Energy (PSE), Seattle City Light, Tacoma Power, Pacific Power. Natural gas distribution is handled by Puget Sound Energy (PSE), Cascade Natural Gas, Avista. Washington's climate — mild and rainy west of Cascades, dry and cold east — is one of the main drivers of annual energy consumption patterns for households.

🏛️ Regulated Electricity Market

Washington has a regulated electricity market. Your utility is the only electricity provider in your area, but rates are reviewed and approved by the state's public utility commission to ensure they are fair and reasonable.

Electric Utilities in Washington

The following utilities operate in Washington. Your specific provider depends on your address.

  • Puget Sound Energy (PSE)
  • Seattle City Light
  • Tacoma Power
  • Pacific Power

Natural Gas Utilities in Washington

  • Puget Sound Energy (PSE)
  • Cascade Natural Gas
  • Avista

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Energy Assistance Programs in Washington

Low-income households and those facing energy emergencies may qualify for these programs:

  • Washington LIHEAP
  • Energy Matchmakers
  • Washington Weatherization Program
  • PSE Rebates
  • Seattle City Light's Neighborhood Power program
ℹ️ To apply for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) in Washington, contact your local community action agency or visit the state's Department of Health & Human Services website.

Energy Saving Tips for Washington Residents

These tips are tailored to Washington's climate — mild and rainy west of Cascades, dry and cold east:

  • Washington's cheap hydroelectric power makes electric heating economical.
  • Consider an electric heat pump — it's 2-3x more efficient than gas heating.
  • Use weatherization to protect against cold and wet Pacific Northwest winters.
  • Seattle City Light and PSE offer rebates for insulation and HVAC upgrades.
  • Sign up for Washington's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
  • With cheap electricity, switching from gas to an induction cooktop is cost-effective.
  • Install heat pump water heaters — highly efficient in mild Pacific Northwest climates.

Gas & Electricity Rates by City in Washington

Select a city to view local utility rates, providers, and energy programs.

All Cities & Towns in Washington

Gas and electricity information for all 463 cities and towns in Washington. Jump to a letter or browse the full list.

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Frequently Asked Questions — Washington Energy

  • The average residential electricity rate in Washington is approximately 14.95¢/kWh, compared to the national average of around 16¢/kWh. The average monthly electricity bill is $113.
  • The average residential natural gas rate in Washington is approximately $1.17/therm per therm. The typical monthly gas bill is $71, though this varies significantly by season.
  • The primary electric utilities serving Washington include Puget Sound Energy (PSE), Seattle City Light, Tacoma Power. The right utility for you depends on your specific address.
  • No — Washington has a regulated electricity market, meaning your utility is determined by your location.
  • Washington residents may qualify for several assistance programs including Washington LIHEAP, Energy Matchmakers. Contact your utility or the state energy office for eligibility details.
  • To reduce your energy bills in Washington: schedule a free energy audit through your utility, check for state weatherization assistance, upgrade to LED lighting, and optimize your thermostat settings. Ask your utility about budget billing to smooth out seasonal costs.
⚖️ Energy rates in Washington are regulated by the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission (UTC). Residents can file complaints or inquire about rates and billing by contacting the commission directly.