Connecticut Supplier Rate Board

Connecticut residents benefit from one of the nation's longest-running deregulated electricity markets, established in 1998. At the center of this competitive energy landscape is the Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA), Connecticut's independent regulatory agency that oversees the electricity market and protects consumer interests. Understanding how PURA functions, what regulated suppliers are available, and how to compare rates is essential for Connecticut electricity customers seeking to optimize their energy costs. In 2025, with multiple suppliers competing across the state and rates fluctuating based on market conditions, leveraging PURA's resources and approval process can save households hundreds of dollars annually.

What is Connecticut's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA)?

Connecticut's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority is an independent agency that operates under the Public Utilities Commission framework. PURA's primary mission is to regulate rates, investigate consumer complaints, enforce utility rules, and maintain a fair competitive marketplace for electricity supply. Unlike utility commissions in some states that primarily focus on traditional monopoly utilities, PURA has evolved into a guardian of Connecticut's deregulated market, ensuring that competition remains effective and consumers receive accurate information about available suppliers and rates.

PURA's regulatory authority extends to reviewing supplier applications, maintaining a list of approved electricity suppliers, monitoring market conduct, investigating rate complaints, and providing consumer education. The agency publishes the official Connecticut Approved Supplier List (ASL), which details all licensed suppliers authorized to serve residential and business customers. This transparency is crucial—PURA's oversight ensures that only legitimate, financially stable suppliers can offer service in Connecticut.

The distinction between PURA and the utilities (Eversource and UI) is important. PURA regulates everyone but operates neither transmission nor supply directly. The utilities (now called "electric distribution companies") maintain infrastructure and deliver electricity, while PURA ensures fair market conditions for competitive suppliers.

Connecticut's Deregulated Electricity Market Structure

Connecticut's electricity market operates under a "retail choice" or "supply competition" model established through Public Act 96-4 (1998) and subsequent legislative refinements. In this structure, consumers can choose their electricity supplier while remaining connected to their local electric distribution company (Eversource or UI). This two-part billing system—delivery charges from the utility and supply charges from your chosen supplier—creates genuine consumer choice and competitive pressure on rates.

The benefits of Connecticut's deregulated market are substantial. Competition drives suppliers to offer diverse rate products: fixed rates for budget certainty, variable rates for potential savings, renewable-focused plans, and specialty products. Suppliers compete aggressively on price and service, meaning consumers who shop around frequently find savings opportunities unavailable in states with monopoly utilities.

Approximately 48% of Connecticut's residential customers currently choose competitive suppliers, with others remaining on their utility's default rate. The remaining customer base on default rates represents significant untapped savings potential—many of these customers could reduce their bills by switching to competitive suppliers offering fixed rates 8-15% below the utility standard offer.

The Default Rate Structure

When customers don't actively choose a supplier, they default to their electric distribution utility's standard rates. In Connecticut, Eversource and Aquarion (formerly UI/United Illuminating) provide default supply rates alongside delivery services. These default rates are typically higher than fixed-rate offers available from competitive suppliers, reflecting both the utilities' costs and the risks of providing variable-rate service.

PURA specifically monitors default rates to ensure they're not so low that they undermine competition. In 2025, the strategic balance requires default rates to be competitive enough to incentivize switching while remaining high enough to maintain market stability. This results in default rates typically ranging from $0.095-$0.115/kWh for residential customers, with variation based on seasonal demand patterns.

2025 Connecticut Electricity Rates and Approved Suppliers

As of 2025, Connecticut's approved supplier list includes more than 15 licensed electricity suppliers offering service to residential customers. These suppliers range from national energy companies like Dynegy and Direct Energy to regional operators and specialized green energy providers. PURA's approval process requires suppliers to demonstrate financial stability, agree to consumer protection commitments, and maintain active licenses—a standard that protects consumers from the fly-by-night operators that plagued earlier deregulated markets.

Residential electricity rates in Connecticut typically range from $0.085 to $0.125 per kilowatt-hour for supply (the utility's delivery charge remains separate and regulated by PURA). The wide range reflects different contract types: fixed-rate products lock in stable rates for 12-36 months, while variable-rate offers adjust monthly based on commodity markets. Fixed-rate products generally command consumer preference because they provide budget certainty.

Seasonal rate patterns are pronounced in Connecticut due to dramatic heating/cooling demands. Winter rates (November-March) spike significantly as demand for electric heating increases and supplier costs rise. Summer rates (June-August) moderate as cooling loads exist but renewable solar generation helps supply, and spring/fall shoulder seasons (April-May, September-October) typically offer the most competitive fixed-rate offers.

Note: Rates are representative 2025 averages. Actual rates fluctuate based on market conditions, contract timing, contract length, and promotional offers. Visit PURA's website for current approved supplier rates.

Using PURA Resources to Compare Suppliers

Connecticut's PURA website (portal.ct.gov/pura) is an invaluable resource for comparing electricity suppliers and rates. The agency maintains the official Connecticut Approved Supplier List with contact information, approved service areas, and specific supplier disclosures. PURA also publishes average price reports showing historical rates from different suppliers, helping consumers identify seasonal trends and make informed switching decisions.

PURA's consumer-friendly tools include a supplier comparison feature and detailed information about Connecticut's deregulated market structure. Consumers can also view sample bills from different suppliers, which is critical for understanding total costs including any applicable monthly fees or surcharges. Most importantly, PURA's official supplier list ensures you're only considering licensed, regulated companies with demonstrated financial stability.

How to Access PURA Rate Information

Start by visiting the PURA website and clicking the "Consumer Assistance" or "Electricity Supplier Information" section. You can search the approved supplier list by your town or service territory (Eversource or Aquarion service areas). Once you've identified approved suppliers operating in your area, contact them directly for rate quotes. Always request written quotes including contract term, early termination fees, any monthly charges, and renewal terms.

When comparing quotes, ensure you're comparing rates for the same consumption level. Your utility bill shows your average monthly usage—use this number when requesting quotes. A household using 900 kWh monthly might get different offers than a household using 1,200 kWh, as suppliers sometimes tier their rates based on consumption levels.

Connecticut's Competitive Supplier Landscape

Connecticut's approved supplier ecosystem includes several distinct business models. National energy companies like Dynegy and Direct Energy compete aggressively on price, leveraging their scale to offer competitive fixed rates. Regional suppliers focus on Connecticut-specific service and customer relationships. Green energy specialists offer renewable-focused products for environmentally conscious consumers. And nonprofit organizations occasionally offer supplier services as well.

Most suppliers use standardized PURA-mandated consumer contracts addressing key terms: pricing, contract duration, renewable energy content (if applicable), renewal policies, and early termination fees. PURA's truth-in-billing requirements mean all suppliers must clearly disclose rates, terms, and fees upfront—preventing the misleading marketing practices that plagued earlier deregulated markets.

Major Supplier Categories in Connecticut

National Energy Companies: Dynegy, Direct Energy, and similar large-scale suppliers operate across Connecticut and multiple states. Their advantages include scale economics enabling competitive pricing, established customer service operations, and sophisticated technology platforms for managing accounts. However, they may offer less personalized service than regional providers. These companies typically focus on price-competitive fixed-rate contracts as their primary market strategy.

Regional and Local Suppliers: Several Connecticut-focused suppliers prioritize customer relationships and local responsiveness. These suppliers often differentiate themselves through customer service excellence, longer-term market presence in Connecticut, and understanding of regional energy dynamics. Some regional suppliers have built loyal customer bases through reliability and personalized account management.

Green Energy Providers: As Connecticut has emphasized renewable energy goals, several suppliers specialize in 100% renewable or high-renewable-content electricity products. These providers source power from wind, solar, and hydroelectric facilities, allowing environmentally conscious consumers to align their energy consumption with their values. While green products historically carried significant premiums, competitive supply has narrowed this gap substantially.

Community Choice Aggregation: Some Connecticut municipalities have explored community choice aggregation (CCA) models where municipalities negotiate on behalf of residents. These programs can achieve volume discounts and provide more standardized renewable content across participating communities. CCA represents an alternative to individual retail choice, though most Connecticut customers still use individual supplier choice.

Real-World Supplier Switching Examples

Example 1: Average Eversource Household - A 3-person household in Eversource's service territory uses approximately 800 kWh monthly. On Eversource's default rate of $0.108/kWh (typical 2025), their annual supply cost is $864 (plus separate delivery charges). By switching to a competitive fixed-rate supplier offering $0.095/kWh, the annual supply cost drops to $760—a savings of $104 annually. Over a 2-year contract, that's $208 in total savings.

Example 2: Aquarion Customer - A customer in Aquarion territory using 1,000 kWh monthly on the default rate of $0.110/kWh pays $1,320 annually. A competitive fixed-rate supplier offering $0.092/kWh for 12 months reduces this to $1,104—a savings of $216 in year one. If they re-contract at $0.095/kWh in year two, their savings continue at $150/year.

Example 3: Green Energy Preference - A household committed to renewable energy might pay a 2-3% premium for 100% renewable-sourced electricity ($0.097/kWh vs. $0.095/kWh standard rate). At 800 kWh monthly usage, this premium is approximately $192 annually—acceptable for customers prioritizing environmental impact while still achieving 5-10% overall savings compared to default utility rates.

PURA's Rate Regulation and Consumer Protections

While competitive suppliers set their own rates, PURA maintains regulatory oversight ensuring fair conduct and consumer protection. The agency reviews supplier license applications, investigates consumer complaints, enforces compliance with state regulations, and publishes market data. This regulatory framework prevents market abuses while allowing suppliers genuine pricing freedom.

Key PURA protections include: (1) Rate transparency disclosure requirements ensuring customers understand all charges before committing, (2) Prohibition on misleading marketing or telephone sales practices, (3) Right to cancel within specified periods, (4) Clear contract terms addressing renewal and termination, and (5) Metering accuracy standards. These regulations make Connecticut's market significantly more consumer-protective than the deregulated markets that existed in the 1990s-2000s.

Making Smart Supplier Choices

When comparing Connecticut suppliers through PURA resources, focus on total annual costs rather than per-kWh rates alone. A supplier advertising the lowest rate but charging high monthly fees may cost more than competitors with slightly higher per-kWh rates. Request written quotes for your specific usage level, request details about early termination fees, and verify contract renewal terms.

Timing matters in Connecticut's market. Switching in September-October typically yields better fixed rates than switching in winter when demand peaks. If you're comfortable with variable rates, you might maintain variable service during expensive winter months and switch to fixed rates when shoulder season competitive rates improve.

Also verify that your chosen supplier serves your service territory. Connecticut's Eversource and Aquarion service areas don't always overlap with supplier availability. A supplier available in Eversource territory may not serve Aquarion customers. PURA's supplier list clearly indicates approved service areas to prevent confusion.

Next Steps

1. Review Your Current Bill: Check your most recent Eversource or Aquarion bill to identify your utility, service territory, and average monthly usage (kWh). This information is essential for accurate supplier comparisons.
2. Visit the PURA Website: Go to portal.ct.gov/pura and access the Connecticut Approved Supplier List. Search for suppliers authorized to serve your service territory (Eversource or Aquarion).
3. Request Rate Quotes: Contact at least 3-5 approved suppliers directly and request written quotes for a 12-month fixed rate contract matching your usage level. Request quotes in writing to ensure accuracy and have documentation.
4. Compare Total Costs: Create a spreadsheet comparing all quotes, calculating total annual costs including any monthly fees, early termination charges, and renewal terms. Identify the lowest-cost option for your situation.
5. Switch and Monitor: Once you've chosen a supplier, complete the enrollment process (suppliers typically handle the switching process). Monitor your first few bills to ensure accuracy and set a reminder to review supplier rates annually.

Conclusion

Connecticut's Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) oversees one of the nation's most mature and consumer-protective deregulated electricity markets. By understanding PURA's role, accessing the agency's consumer resources, and leveraging the Approved Supplier List to compare rates, Connecticut electricity customers can realize significant savings while supporting competition and market efficiency. With 2025 offering competitive fixed-rate options from multiple approved suppliers, the opportunity to optimize your household energy costs has never been more accessible. The combination of PURA's consumer protections, transparent market information, and active supplier competition creates a genuine benefit of Connecticut's deregulation model that savvy consumers should exploit annually.