- Free Xfinity Mobile Line for 1 year
- Free Peacock Premium*
- Free WiFi Equipment for 24 months
- $100 Visa Prepaid Cards for students
- Plans starting at $30/month
Quick Utility Facts
- If you have a power outage call your electric utility, PEPCO.
- The natural gas utility is Washington Gas.
- You have the power to choose an electricity and/or natural gas supplier and plan that is best for your home.
- Internet service is provided by Xfinity, Verizon Fios, and, in some areas, Astound Broadband.
- The cheapest internet plan in Washington, DC is $19.95/month from Astound Broadband.
- Water service is provided by DC Water.
- DPW provides trash and recycling services.
Top 9 Electric Providers in Washington
- 17¢ /kWh
- 18¢ /kWh
- 14¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 19¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 16¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 19¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 17¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 20¢ /kWh
Electricity across the District is delivered by Pepco (Potomac Electric Power Company), an Exelon subsidiary that owns the physical power lines, reads meters, and responds to local power outages. Because Washington, DC operates under a deregulated energy choice market overseen by the District of Columbia Public Service Commission (DC PSC), you have the right to shop for an independent competitive electric supplier or remain on Pepco’s default Standard Offer Service (SOS). Pepco’s default SOS supply rate sits near 16.1 cents per kWh, bringing the all-in bundled price (including Pepco’s non-negotiable delivery charges, transmission fees, and District taxes) to roughly 22 to 24 cents per kWh. While you can contract with a third-party generation provider, Pepco remains responsible for your physical grid delivery regardless of your chosen supplier.
Top 9 Natural Gas Providers in Washington
- $0.729 /THM
- $0.59 /THM
- $0.60 /THM
- $0.655 /THM
- $0.664 /THM
- $0.649 /THM
- $0.688 /THM
- $0.5819 /THM
Natural gas distribution across the city is managed by Washington Gas (a WGL company), which operates and maintains the underground pipeline network and responds to gas leak emergencies. Like electricity, natural gas is deregulated under DC’s Customer Choice program, granting residents the option to select a third-party gas supplier for their commodity or remain on Washington Gas’s default Purchased Gas Charge (PGC) tariff. Following an approved rate adjustment that added approximately 12.8 percent to average residential statements, Washington Gas charges mandatory fixed customer fees alongside distribution charges and dedicated infrastructure riders — such as the PROJECTpipes surcharge used to fund replacing aging cast-iron mains across the District. Because these infrastructure fees apply year-round, your statement carries a persistent baseline charge even during hot summer months when your gas heating radiator sits completely idle.
Top 11 Internet Providers in Washington
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 98.64%
- $30.00/mo
- 5 Year Price Lock Available
- 2.3 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 92.99%
- $49.99/mo
- Get NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube
- 5 Gbps
- Cable
- 1 TB
- 63.62%
- $19.95/mo
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Best for Renters
- 498 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.65%
- $50.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.25%
- $65.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 99.9%
- $55.00/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Cable
- 1.25 TB
- TV & Phone
- 16.73%
- $55.00/mo
- 1 Gbps
- Fixed Wireless
- Unlimited
- 33.62%
- $75.00/mo
Internet and digital broadband connectivity across the nation’s capital is a fast-paced, highly competitive battlefield dominated by a widespread Verizon Fios fiber-to-the-home footprint, a near-universal cable network from Xfinity, competitive coverage from Astound Broadband, and point-to-point fixed wireless from Starry. Symmetrical multi-gigabit fiber connections offer exceptional low-latency bandwidth ideal for remote employment, policy analysis, and streaming. However, physical line drops depend heavily on neighborhood architecture and historic preservation laws. If you are moving into an established historic rowhome or brownstone in Capitol Hill, Georgetown, Dupont Circle, Shaw, or Adams Morgan, older brick facades, rear alley easements, and strict Historic Preservation Review Board (HPRB) guidelines can delay physical fiber drilling or line drops. Furthermore, modern high-density condo towers in NoMa, Navy Yard, or Mount Vernon Triangle frequently feature exclusive corporate property marketing agreements that restrict inside wiring access to a single ISP.
Solar Providers in Washington
Water & Sewage Providers in Washington
Water, sewer, and urban stormwater utilities are managed by DC Water (District of Columbia Water and Sewer Authority), which purchases raw water from the Potomac River via the Washington Aqueduct. Billed on a monthly cycle, DC Water’s rate structure includes an escalated volumetric scale alongside a $7.75 customer metering fee and a $6.30 Water System Replacement Fee (WSRF) for standard residential meters. The most notable line item on a DC Water bill is the Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge (CRIAC) — assessed at $24.23 per Equivalent Residential Unit (ERU) — which funds the massive underground tunnel system mitigating runoff into the Anacostia and Potomac rivers. Because CRIAC is calculated based on your property’s total square footage of impervious surface (roofs, driveways, and paved patios), and wastewater treatment rates scale directly with incoming water volume, unaddressed plumbing leaks or heavy outdoor usage will rapidly compound your monthly municipal statement.
Top 9 Trash and Recycling Providers in Washington
Solid waste and recycling collection services are operated directly by the DC Department of Public Works (DPW), but only for single-family homes and residential buildings containing three or fewer dwelling units (buildings with four or more units must hire private commercial waste haulers). DPW provides a dual-cart automated system featuring heavy-duty green “Supercans” for bagged household trash and rolling blue carts for single-stream recycling. Garbage collection occurs once or twice a week depending on your ward and neighborhood density, while recycling is collected weekly. Carts must be rolled to the front curb or assigned rear alley line by 6:00 AM on collection morning (or after 6:00 PM the night before). All recyclables must be placed in the blue cart completely loose; using plastic grocery or garbage bags will cause collection crews to tag the cart as contaminated and leave it behind. Bulk trash items (up to seven items per appointment) must be scheduled in advance through the city’s 311 portal.
Utilities Summary for Washington, DC
| Electric Companies: | 9 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 9 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 9 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Get Connected to Utility Services in Washington, DC
Washington, DC, our nation’s capital and a vibrant city that blends rich history with modern living. Whether you’re moving into a classic rowhouse in Capitol Hill, a sleek condo in Navy Yard, or a family home in Brookland, one of the first things on your to-do list will be setting up your utilities. DC offers a fairly streamlined utility setup process, with designated providers for most services and some consumer choice when it comes to electricity and gas. This guide will walk you through each major utility, electricity, natural gas, water, trash, internet, and available financial assistance, so you can settle in with ease.
Electricity Service in Washington, DC
In Washington, DC, electricity is delivered by Pepco (Potomac Electric Power Company), which services the entire District. While Pepco is the default utility for distribution and maintenance, electricity supply in DC is deregulated, giving residents the freedom to choose their electricity supplier.
About Pepco
Pepco is responsible for maintaining the electrical infrastructure, responding to outages, and delivering energy to homes. They’re also the billing entity if you don’t choose a third-party supplier.
Energy Efficiency Rebates
Through its EnergyWise Rewards and DC SEU (Sustainable Energy Utility) programs, Pepco and local partners offer energy-saving rebates and incentives. These include:
- HVAC system rebates
- Smart thermostat discounts (up to $100)
- Home energy assessments and weatherization support
- Rebates on ENERGY STAR appliances
Electricity Suppliers in DC
If you want to shop for a new electricity rate or prefer renewable energy, here are a few popular suppliers:
- CleanChoice Energy: 100% renewable energy plans sourced from wind and solar.
- Constellation: Offers fixed-rate and green energy plans, with online account tools.
- Direct Energy: Competitive rates with occasional enrollment bonuses.
- AEP Energy: Offers fixed-rate plans with price protection and no early termination fee options.
Tips for Choosing a Supplier:
- Compare fixed vs. variable rates.
- Look for plans that offer renewable energy.
- Check for cancellation fees or enrollment incentives.
Natural Gas in Washington, DC
Washington Gas is the sole natural gas distribution company in DC. Like electricity, natural gas is deregulated, meaning you can choose a third-party supplier for the supply portion of your bill, but Washington Gas will still handle delivery and emergencies.
About Washington Gas
A long-established utility, Washington Gas provides natural gas to homes for heating, water heating, and cooking. They’re also responsible for meter reading and infrastructure maintenance.
Energy Efficiency Programs
Washington Gas offers several programs to help customers save energy and money:
- Appliance rebates for ENERGY STAR-rated furnaces, water heaters, and boilers
- Weatherization incentives in collaboration with DC SEU
- Income-qualified assistance through free efficiency upgrades
Natural Gas Suppliers:
- XOOM Energy: Offers fixed-rate plans and budget billing options.
- WGL Energy: The supply affiliate of Washington Gas, offering carbon offset plans.
- Constellation: Competitive natural gas pricing and contract options.
Tips for Choosing a Supplier:
- Look for a stable rate if you want predictable bills.
- Choose carbon-offset plans if you want to support green initiatives.
Water and Sewer Services
Water service in DC is provided by DC Water, which manages both water and wastewater services for the entire city. There is no choice of provider for water service, so new residents must open an account directly with DC Water.
About DC Water
Known for its award-winning water quality, DC Water manages over 1,300 miles of water pipes and is continuously investing in infrastructure upgrades. The Blue Plains Advanced Wastewater Treatment Plant is one of the largest in the world and plays a major role in keeping the Potomac River clean.
Conservation Incentives
- Lead Pipe Replacement Assistance: DC Water offers programs and financing for replacing lead service lines.
- High Bill Investigations: Free services to detect leaks or unusually high usage.
- Rain Barrel and Green Roof Rebates: Through DC’s RiverSmart program.
Trash, Recycling, and Composting
The DC Department of Public Works (DPW) handles trash and recycling collection for most single-family homes and small residential buildings (three units or fewer).
Trash and Recycling Basics
- Trash is collected once a week, while recycling is picked up weekly in a separate bin.
- Bulk items, like mattresses or furniture, can be scheduled for pickup by calling 311 or using the DC 311 app.
Composting and Sustainability
- DC offers free food waste drop-off locations at farmers markets.
- Residents can apply for a rebate toward home compost bins.
- The Zero Waste DC initiative promotes recycling education and waste reduction goals.
For large apartment complexes and condos, trash service is usually provided by the building or a private company.
Best Internet Providers in Washington, DC
DC residents have access to a competitive market of high-speed internet providers, including both fiber and cable options. Availability may vary slightly by neighborhood, so it’s wise to enter your address to confirm the best fit.
Top Internet Providers:
- Xfinity: Offers a wide range of speeds from 75 Mbps to 2 Gbps to almost 99% of the city. The also offer a variety of bundling options for TV and mobile.
- Verizon Fios: Known for fast, symmetrical fiber speeds (300 Mbps to 1 Gbps), excellent for remote work or gaming. Available in about 89% of the DC area.
- Astound Broadband (RCN): Offers flexible packages and lower introductory rates, available in some DC neighborhoods.
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet: A wireless option with unlimited data and easy setup, good for renters or homes without cable access.
Things to Consider:
- Check if fiber is available in your area, Fios is especially strong in NW and NE DC.
- Bundle internet and mobile for discounts.
- Ask about promotional pricing and equipment fees.
Green Energy and Sustainability in DC
DC is a national leader in sustainability and renewable energy adoption. The city has ambitious climate goals and offers many ways for residents to participate.
Green Programs and Features:
- 100% Renewable Electricity Standard by 2032: All electricity sold in DC must be from renewable sources by then.
- Solar for All Program: Offers free or discounted solar panel installation for income-qualified households.
- Community Solar: Renters or those without solar-ready roofs can subscribe to community solar projects and receive credits on their Pepco bill.
- Green Building Codes: New construction must meet high efficiency standards, and incentives are available for retrofitting older homes.
Residents can also support sustainability by choosing a renewable energy plan from a third-party supplier or participating in DC’s composting and waste reduction efforts.
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills
Washington, DC offers several programs to help low-income residents pay for utilities and keep services active year-round.
Electricity & Gas Assistance:
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program): Provides financial aid for electric or gas bills. Apply through the Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE).
- Utility Discount Program (UDP): Reduces electricity, water, and telephone bills for eligible residents.
- Up to $475/year off Pepco bills
- 25% discount on DC Water charges
- Lifeline discounts for telephone and internet services
- Arrearage Management Program (AMP): Available for Pepco and Washington Gas customers with outstanding balances. Offers forgiveness of past-due amounts with on-time payments.
Water Bill Assistance:
- CAP (Customer Assistance Program): Provides a monthly credit on DC Water bills.
- LIRA (Low-Income Residential Assistance): Further discounts for households that qualify under income thresholds.
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.
Washington Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Washington
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Xfinity | Cable & Fiber | 2 Gbps |
| Verizon Home Internet | Fiber | 2.3 Gbps |
| Astound Broadband | Cable | 5 Gbps |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 498 Mbps |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies |
| Cox | Cable | 2 Gbps |
| Starry | Fixed Wireless | 1 Gbps |
*Not all speeds available in all areas
Washington Drinking Water Quality Information
Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.
Washington's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 100 ppb
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Legal limit: 60 ppb
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Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should I schedule my utility transfers?
You should contact Pepco and Washington Gas at least 3 to 5 business days before your move-in date to ensure services are active when you arrive. For internet providers like Verizon or Xfinity, it is best to schedule 1–2 weeks in advance if a technician is required for installation.
Can I choose a different energy supplier in DC?
Yes, DC has a “deregulated” energy market. While Pepco and Washington Gas will always deliver your energy and handle emergency repairs, you can shop for a third-party competitive supplier for the “supply” portion of your bill via DC Power Connect.
What should I do if I smell gas in my new home?
Evacuate the premises immediately and do not use any electronic devices, light switches, or phones inside the house. Once at a safe distance, call 911 and the Washington Gas Emergency Leak Line at (844) 927-4427.
Do I need to set up a DC Water account if I am renting?
In the District, property owners are ultimately responsible for the water bill. However, tenants can be added as “non-owners” to receive a copy of the bill in their name by having the landlord contact DC Water at (202) 354-3600. Note that non-owner accounts are typically restricted to electronic billing.
Who handles my trash and recycling?
If you live in a single-family home or a building with 3 or fewer units, the Department of Public Works (DPW) provides collection. If your building has 4 or more units, your landlord or property manager must contract a private trash removal service.
What if my new home is missing trash or recycling bins?
New residents can request missing or damaged “Supercans” or recycling carts for free within the first 90 days of moving in. Call 311 or visit 311.dc.gov to submit a service request.
What is the "Clean Rivers Impervious Area Charge" on my water bill?
This is a standard fee used to fund the Clean Rivers Project, which reduces sewer overflows into DC’s waterways. Some residents may qualify for CRIAC residential relief based on income.
Are there programs to help lower my monthly utility costs?
Yes, the Utility Discount Program (UDP) helps low-income residents reduce costs for electric, gas, and water. Additionally, the Solar for All program through the Department of Energy & Environment (DOEE) aims to provide the benefits of solar energy to low-to-moderate-income households at no cost.
How do I find my specific trash and recycling pickup days?
You can enter your new address at collectionday.dpw.dc.gov to see your weekly schedule and any holiday-related delays.
How does Pepco’s "Standard Offer Service" (SOS) compare to third-party suppliers in DC?
Pepco’s default SOS supply rate sits around 16.1 cents per kWh. While DC has a deregulated supply market, third-party competitive suppliers frequently post rates higher than SOS or attach monthly administrative fees. Sticking with default SOS is often the most cost-effective supply choice unless you are locking in a specific long-term fixed rate or a 100% green energy contract.
What is the "PROJECTpipes" surcharge on my Washington Gas bill?
PROJECTpipes is a multi-year, multi-phase infrastructure modernization program approved by the DC PSC to replace hundreds of miles of aging cast-iron and bare-steel natural gas mains across the District. A dedicated monthly surcharge is appended directly to your distribution charges to fund these ongoing pipeline safety and leak-prevention overhauls.