Connecticut Electricity Rates Set to Drop in May, Saving Customers Hundreds Annually
Connecticut residents served by Eversource Energy or United Illuminating will spot lower electricity bills beginning May 1, 2026, after state regulators approved rate reductions that take effect through April 30, 2027. The Connecticut Public Utilities Regulatory Authority (PURA) announced the adjustments on April 22, 2026, which will decrease costs for customers by reducing the public benefits charge on electric bills.
The changes result from PURA’s conditional approval of decreased rates for both utilities via their Rate Adjustment Mechanisms (RAM). According to PURA, the average Eversource customer will save about $30 per month, although the average United Illuminating customer will save about $34 per month. These savings stem primarily from a 4.3 cent-per-kilowatt-hour reduction for Eversource users and a 4.9 cent-per-kilowatt-hour reduction for United Illuminating users.
What’s Behind the Rate Cuts?
PURA officials cited two main factors driving the reductions: long-term agreements to purchase electricity from the Millstone Nuclear Power Station in Waterford and Seabrook Station in Modern Hampshire and savings from Senate Bill 4, an omnibus energy bill passed in 2025 designed to alleviate rising energy costs for residents.
The rate adjustments specifically target the public benefits charge—a component of electric bills that funds state-mandated programs such as clean energy procurements and assistance for low-income customers. By substantially reducing this charge, PURA aims to deliver immediate relief to households without altering core utility service delivery.
Official Statements
Governor Ned Lamont praised the decision, stating: “Today’s announcement by PURA is decent news for residents, who are soon to get some much-needed relief. This is the direct result of the difficult but necessary decisions we made over the past few years, including restructuring utility arrearages and betting on nuclear power to offset the volatility of fossil fuel prices. I’m glad these decisions are paying off and helping to lower bills for our residents.”
PURA emphasized that the approved rates are conditional and will remain in effect for one year, subject to ongoing review. Actual savings will vary based on individual usage patterns and rate classifications.
About the Utilities Affected
Eversource Energy serves electric customers across much of Connecticut, including the Greater Hartford and New London areas. United Illuminating provides electricity to customers in the Greater New Haven and Bridgeport regions. Both utilities are regulated by PURA, which oversees rates, service quality, and compliance with state energy policies.
Looking Ahead
The rate reductions mark a continued effort by state leadership to manage energy affordability amid fluctuating fuel markets. With the new rates in place from May 1, 2026, through April 30, 2027, eligible customers can expect measurable decreases in their monthly electric bills, offering financial relief as seasonal energy demand increases.
Customers are encouraged to review their bills starting in May to confirm the adjusted rates and contact their utility provider with any questions about billing changes.