Utility Cost Comparison Calculator

Compare competing retail electricity providers, utility rate plans, fixed customer fees, and contract terms side-by-side to find the lowest annual cost.

Compare Rate Plans (Plan A vs Plan B)

Plan A (e.g. Standard Fixed)
Plan B (e.g. No Fixed Fee)
Better Choice
—
— / month diff
Plan A Monthly
—
base + fixed
Plan B Monthly
—
base + fixed
Annual Savings
—
12-month difference

Plan Cost Comparison Formula

Monthly Plan Total = (Usage kWh × Rate per kWh) + Monthly Base Customer Fee
  • Usage kWh: Baseline monthly electrical consumption applied identically to both offers.
  • Energy Supply Rate: Price per kilowatt-hour quoted by each competing supplier or plan tier.
  • Base Monthly Fee: Fixed monthly customer charges or administrative account maintenance fees.

Step-by-Step Worked Example

Scenario:

Calculation Steps:

    Result:

    How to Use This Calculator

      Assumptions & Limitations

      • Comparison assumes constant usage across both plan evaluations.
      • Does not include early termination or cancellation penalties.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      Why are teaser low-rate electricity plans sometimes more expensive?

      Many retail energy providers offer low advertised rates per kWh (e.g. $0.11/kWh) but attach high monthly base fees ($15-$25/mo) or minimum usage fees if you consume under 1,000 kWh, significantly increasing your effective all-in cost.

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