Written By: David Cosseboom | Updated On: May 8th, 2025
About National Grid
National Grid is one of the largest investor-owned energy companies in the U.S., serving as the backbone of power infrastructure for 20 million customers spanning communities across the Northeast. With operations spanning New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, they maintain thousands of miles of power lines and gas pipelines that keep homes and businesses running smoothly. What makes National Grid unique is their dual role as both an energy distributor and a company actively working toward a cleaner energy future. While they don’t generate most of the electricity themselves, they’re responsible for delivering it safely and reliably to your doorstep. Their commitment to modernizing the grid and integrating renewable energy sources makes them an important player in the region’s transition to sustainable power.
National Grid’s Coverage Area
National Grid’s service territory covers some of the most populous regions in the Northeast, providing essential energy services to urban centers and rural communities alike. In New York, they serve areas including NYC, Long Island, and upstate regions, while in Massachusetts they’re the primary provider for much of the eastern part of the state. Their Rhode Island operations cover nearly the entire state, making them a critical part of New England’s energy infrastructure. The company delivers both electricity and natural gas, with electricity coming from a diverse mix of generation sources that varies by location and season. This dual-fuel service means they’re responsible for keeping your lights on and your home warm during those cold Northeast winters.
National Grid serves 20 million customers across the Northeast, primarily in:
- New York (including NYC, Long Island, and upstate regions)
- Massachusetts (most of eastern/central MA)
- Rhode Island (nearly statewide coverage)
Where Does National Grid’s Energy Come From?
National Grid’s energy mix is constantly evolving to meet state clean energy goals and customer demand for sustainable options. In recent years, they’ve significantly increased the percentage of renewable energy flowing through their systems, particularly in states with aggressive clean energy mandates. For environmentally conscious customers, it’s worth noting that the exact composition of your electricity depends on your location and whether you’ve opted for a green energy plan through a retail provider. The good news is that options for cleaner power are expanding every year as National Grid invests in infrastructure to support renewable energy integration.
National Grid’s power comes from a diverse mix that changes by season and location. During windy nights, you might get more renewable energy, while hot summer days could mean more natural gas generation. The exact breakdown varies, but here’s the general picture:
Typical energy mix:
- Natural gas: 40-60%
- Nuclear: 20-30%
- Renewables (wind, solar, hydro): Growing to 15-25%
- Other sources: Making up the remainder
National Grid’s Decarbonization Initiatives
National Grid USA is actively investing in modernizing its infrastructure to support a cleaner energy future:
- Smart Grid Enhancements: Implementing advanced technologies to manage a dynamic energy supply and demand .
- Energy Efficiency Programs: Allocating funds for residential weatherization and energy-saving initiatives, especially for low-to-moderate-income households .
- Fossil Fuel Reduction: Committing to a fossil-fuel-free gas distribution network by 2050, focusing on renewable natural gas and hydrogen integration.
These efforts align with broader goals to achieve a net-zero energy system, ensuring a reliable and sustainable electricity supply for the regions served.
Choosing a Retail Electric Provider (REP)
One of the most important choices you have as a National Grid customer is whether to use their standard service or explore alternative retail electric providers (REPs). While National Grid will always deliver your electricity, choosing a REP allows you to select specific energy products that might better suit your needs. This gives you more control over your energy footprint and can sometimes save you money.
Why consider a REP?
- Access to 100% renewable energy plans
- Potential for lower rates than standard service
- Fixed-rate options that protect against price spikes
- Support for specific green energy projects
Comparing Retail Provider Options
Here’s a quick look at some popular choices in National Grid territories:
| Provider | Plan Highlights | Best For | Contract Terms |
|---|---|---|---|
| CleanChoice Energy | 100% regional renewables | Eco-conscious users | Flexible month-to-month |
| Direct Energy | Price-protected fixed rates | Budget-focused households | 12-24 month terms |
| Green Mountain | Wind/solar with carbon offsets | Sustainability-minded | Various term lengths |
Not all providers are available in all areas. Make sure to search your ZIP code to find what’s availablie to you.
Things to Consider When Picking a REP
When evaluating providers, consider your priorities: Is it price stability? Environmental impact? Customer service reputation? Many customers find the right REP can offer both environmental benefits and potential savings compared to standard utility rates.
- Rate type (fixed vs. variable)
- Contract length (avoid early termination fees)
- Renewable % (if going green matters to you)
- Customer reviews (check for hidden fees)
Learn More About Choosing A Provider
How to Check & Report Outages
Even with National Grid’s reliable service, power outages can occasionally occur during severe weather or equipment issues. The company offers several convenient ways to check outage statuses in your area, with their online outage map providing real-time updates on affected neighborhoods and estimated restoration times.
Searching for Outages
National Grid’s Outage Map updates every 5 minutes with restoration estimates. You can filter by county or town to see if your area is affected. When storms hit or equipment fails, National Grid has you covered with multiple ways to stay informed:
Reporting and tracking outages:
- Online Map: Real-time outage tracker with estimated restoration
- Mobile App: Report outages with photo uploads
- Text Alerts: Get status updates sent to your phone
- Phone System: Automated reporting via 1-800-867-5222
National Grid’s App & Digital Tools
Their free mobile app puts control in your pocket with:
- Real-time outage maps
- Usage monitoring with daily breakdowns
- Secure bill payment options
- Energy-saving tips tailored to your usage
- Paperless billing enrollment
Saving Money with National Grid
Beyond basic service, National Grid offers numerous programs to help customers reduce energy waste and save money. Seasonal programs also exist to help income-qualified customers manage their energy costs during peak usage periods.
Rebates and incentives:
- Up to $500 for high-efficiency HVAC systems
- $50-$100 for ENERGY STAR certified appliances
- Free home energy assessments
- Smart thermostat installation discounts
Special programs:
- Budget billing to smooth out seasonal costs
- Payment assistance for qualifying households
- Free weatherization for income-eligible homes
- Electric vehicle charging incentives
- Solar panel interconnection support
Making the Right Choice
As you consider your options with National Grid, remember you have more control than you might realize. Many customers find that combining National Grid’s reliable delivery with a carefully chosen retail provider gives them the best balance of service and value. With the company’s ongoing investments in cleaner energy and grid improvements, customers can expect even more options in the coming years.
If you live in NY, MA, or RI, National Grid is your default utility, but you still have choices! You can:
- Stick with their standard service (reliable but not always green)
- Switch to a REP like CleanChoice (for 100% renewables)
- Take advantage of rebates to cut costs
Their outage tools are great, and their push toward clean energy makes them a solid pick if sustainability matters to you.
FAQs About National Grid
Where can I pay my National Grid bill?
– Online (nationalgrid.com)
– Mobile app (National Grid app)
– Phone (1-800-642-4272)
– Mail (check your bill for address)
– In person (authorized payment locations)
– Autopay (for hassle-free billing)
How do I report a power outage or gas emergency?
Gas leak? If you smell gas (rotten egg odor), leave immediately and call 911 or 1-800-892-2345
What payment assistance programs are available?
– Budget Billing (even monthly payments)
– Energy Assistance Programs (LIHEAP, fuel assistance)
– Payment extensions for qualifying customers
Does National Grid offer smart meters?
How can I track my energy usage?
– View daily/hourly usage
– Get energy-saving tips
– Set up usage alerts