- Free modem and anti-virus software
- No contracts and unlimited data
- Bundle with TV to save more
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps**
- Plans start at $30/month
Quick Utility Facts
- If you have a power outage call your electric utility, Con Edison.
- The natural gas utility is National Grid.
- You have the power to choose a different electricity or natural gas supplier and choose a plan that is best for your home.
- Home internet service is provided by Verizon Fios and Spectrum or Optimum.
- Water, trash, and recycling services are provided by New York City.
Top 30 Electric Providers in Brooklyn
- 100¢ /kWh
- 39.999¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 39.999¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 39.999¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 29.9¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 26.99¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 26.5987¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 24.2763¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 23.7078¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 21.99¢ /kWh
- None
- 6-12 Months
- Renewable Energy Option
- 20.9¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 20¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 19.9¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 19.9¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 19.59¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 19.29¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 18.99¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 17.49¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 17.4¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 15.79¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 15.4¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 15¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 14.9¢ /kWh
- 13.78¢ /kWh
- 11.99¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 23.89¢ /kWh
- 20.6¢ /kWh
- 90 days
- 1-36 Months
- Renewable Energy Option
- 16.99¢ /kWh
- None
- 12 Months
- Renewable Energy Option
- 15.69¢ /kWh
- None
- 12-20 Months
- Renewable Energy Option
Electricity across Kings County is delivered physically by Consolidated Edison (Con Edison / Con Ed), which owns the regional grid infrastructure, reads digital meters, and restores power during storm outages. Because New York operates a fully deregulated energy choice market overseen by the New York State Public Service Commission (PSC), you have the legal right to shop for an independent Energy Service Company (ESCO) on the state’s Power to Choose portal or remain on Con Ed’s default supply tariff. Driven by heavy regional transmission investments, local property taxes, and high summer peak demand, Con Ed’s all-in estimated residential electricity rate sits around 33.8 cents per kWh, making it among the highest in the nation. Regardless of whether you purchase your electricity supply from a third-party ESCO or stick with default utility supply, Con Ed continues to handle your physical grid delivery and appends a fixed monthly customer charge (~$12.00) onto every statement.
Top 6 Natural Gas Providers in Brooklyn
- $0.99 therm
- $0.7399 therm
- $1.24 therm
- $1.299 therm
- $0.626 therm
Natural gas service across Brooklyn is distributed physically by National Grid, which maintains the underground pipeline mains, reads gas meters, and responds to emergency leak calls. Just like the electric grid, natural gas supply is fully deregulated under New York’s Core Gas Aggregation framework, granting residents the option to select a third-party Energy Service Company (ESCO) for their gas commodity or remain on National Grid’s default state-approved monthly variable supply rate. National Grid assesses mandatory distribution delivery fees, system performance adjustments, and a fixed monthly customer charge on every statement. Because natural gas is heavily relied upon to fire steam boilers, radiator systems, domestic water heaters, and gas cooktops in classic pre-war buildings and historic brownstones, summer fuel usage drops; however, this mandatory customer charge ensures your natural gas account carries a persistent monthly baseline fee year-round, even in July or August when space-heating equipment lies completely dormant.
Top 9 Internet Providers in Brooklyn
- 8 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- $30.00/mo
- 7 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Phone
- $29.99/mo
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- $49.99/mo
- Get NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Great for Renters
- 498 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- $50.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- $55.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- $39.99/mo
- 100 Mbps
- Satellite
- 100-200 GB
- DISH TV
- $39.99/mo
Broadband and digital communications across Brooklyn represent a high-speed, multi-provider battlefield heavily dominated by a widespread Verizon Fios fiber-to-the-home footprint, a universal cable presence from Optimum or Spectrum depending on your neighborhood, fixed 5G wireless options, and community mesh networks like NYC Mesh. Symmetrical multi-gigabit fiber connections offer exceptional low-latency bandwidth ideal for remote employment, digital media work, and streaming, but physical line availability depends heavily on local neighborhood architecture. Moving into an established historic brownstone or pre-war apartment in neighborhoods like Park Slope, Brooklyn Heights, Bed-Stuy, or Crown Heights can reveal older interior wiring, thick plaster/brick walls, and rear alley or street-facing facade line drop restrictions that delay fiber installation. Furthermore, modern luxury high-rise towers in DUMBO, Williamsburg, or Downtown Brooklyn frequently feature exclusive corporate property marketing contracts that restrict inside wiring access to a single ISP.
Solar Providers in Brooklyn
Water & Sewage Providers in Brooklyn
Water and sanitary sewer services are managed by the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and billed via the NYC Water Board, sourcing pristine raw drinking water from the protected Catskill, Delaware, and Croton watersheds. Billed on a single municipal statement, water billing follows a metered volumetric rate of $5.35 per 100 cubic feet (CCF), while sewer treatment is billed at 159 percent of the water charge, bringing the combined water and sewer rate to $13.50 per 100 CCF. Because wastewater treatment forms the vast majority of your statement, an unaddressed running toilet or an undetected plumbing leak in a historic brownstone or apartment will rapidly multiply your monthly municipal charges.
Top 53 Trash and Recycling Providers in Brooklyn
Solid waste, recycling, and organic composting services are operated directly by the NYC Department of Sanitation (DSNY) for residential properties containing 1 to 9 units. A critical logistical rule for Brooklyn residents is the NYC Bin Mandate: properties with 1 to 9 residential units are legally required to set out household trash inside official latching, rodent-resistant NYC Bins to eliminate street rat attractants. DSNY also enforces Mandatory Citywide Curbside Composting, requiring all food scraps, food-soiled paper, and yard waste to be placed loose or inside certified compostable bags in dedicated green bins or sealed containers. Dual-stream recycling is collected weekly, with plastic grocery or trash bags strictly banned inside blue recycling bins. Bulk items (like furniture and appliances) are collected on regular trash days, but city health codes strictly require all mattresses and box springs to be 100 percent encased and sealed in clear plastic wrap before setout, or crews will leave them on the sidewalk with a code violation tag.
Utilities Summary for Brooklyn, NY
| Electric Companies: | 30 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 6 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 53 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
The Ultimate Brooklyn Utilities Guide: Setting Up Your New Home
Brooklyn is more than just a borough, it’s a lifestyle. From brownstone-lined streets in Park Slope to the buzz of Williamsburg and the cultural richness of Crown Heights, Brooklyn offers something for everyone. But before you get fully settled into your new home, it’s important to understand how utility services work here. This guide walks you through everything you need to know, electricity, gas, water, trash, internet options, green energy choices, and even financial help, so you can get set up with confidence.
Electricity in Brooklyn
Understanding Your Options in a Deregulated Market
In Brooklyn, your electricity service will likely come through Con Edison (Consolidated Edison), the main utility provider for New York City. Con Edison is responsible for delivering power and maintaining the electric grid, while the supply of electricity itself can come from a variety of Energy Service Companies (ESCOs), also known as retail electric providers (REPs), due to New York’s deregulated energy market.
Top ESCOs
| Supplier | Best For | Notable Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Green Mountain Energy | Eco-conscious users | 100% wind power plans |
| Ambit Energy | Budget shoppers | Competitive fixed rates |
| Direct Energy | Flexible contracts | Bundled electricity + gas deals |
| CleanChoice Energy | Renewable energy fans | Solar/wind options |
How to Choose an Electricity Supplier in Brooklyn (Without the Headache)
New York’s deregulated energy market means you can pick your electricity supplier, but with dozens of options, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s how to shop smart in Brooklyn’s competitive market:
1. Know the Players
- ConEd still delivers your power (and handles outages), you’re just choosing who supplies it.
- Alternative suppliers (like Green Mountain or Ambit) compete on price or renewable energy.
2. Decode the “ESCO” Trap
- Check the “price to compare” on your ConEd bill.
- Many ESCOs (Energy Service Companies) advertise rates lower for 2 months, then spike higher than ConEd’s standard rate.
3. Ask These Questions
- “Is this a fixed or variable rate?” (Fixed avoids winter price surges.)
- “What’s the cancellation fee?” (Some charge $100+ to switch early.)
- “How much is renewable?” (100% wind plans cost ~1-2¢ more/kWh.)
4. Green Energy Hack
Want renewables without the markup? Opt for ConEd’s “Clean Energy Buy-Back”, they’ll match your usage with NY wind/solar for no extra fee.
Red Flags
- “Door-to-door only” deals (legit companies don’t need high-pressure sales).
- Rates below 10¢/kWh (likely a variable-rate trap).
- No clear contract terms (always get it in writing).
Energy Efficiency & Rebates from ConEd
Let’s face it, Brooklyn rents are high enough without sky-high utility bills! Luckily, ConEd offers some fantastic rebates and incentives to help you cut costs while reducing your carbon footprint. From discounted smart thermostats to free energy-saving kits, these programs put cash back in your pocket while keeping your brownstone or apartment cozy. Here’s how to take advantage of Brooklyn’s best-kept utility secrets, no landlord approval required!
- Smart Thermostat Discounts: ConEd offers rebates for Nest or Ecobee.
- Free Energy Audit: Identify energy hogs in your apartment.
- LED Bulb Giveaways: Check ConEd’s marketplace for discounts.
Natural Gas in Brooklyn
Like electricity, natural gas in Brooklyn is delivered by National Grid, but you can choose an alternative supplier. Most Brooklyn brownstones and apartments rely on gas for heating and cooking, so picking the right plan matters, especially in winter!
Top Alternative Gas Suppliers
| Supplier | Best For | Notable Perks |
|---|---|---|
| Constellation | Fixed-rate fans | Price protection plans |
| Direct Energy | Bundled savings | Discounts for dual electricity + gas |
| Ambit Energy | Simple pricing | No hidden fees |
Tips for Choosing a Natural Gas Supplier in Brooklyn’s Deregulated Market
- National Grid delivers your gas, you’re just choosing the supplier.
- Compare to National Grid’s standard rate. Avoid variable-rate plans that spike in winter.
- Must-ask questions:
- Fixed or variable rate?
- Any monthly fees?
- Cancellation penalty?
- Green options exist (like carbon offsets), but cost 10–20% more.
- Red flags:
- Door-to-door “deals”
- Rates far below National Grid’s
- No fixed-rate option
National Grid Energy Efficiency Rebates
Want to cut your gas bills and shrink your carbon footprint? Good news, National Grid offers Brooklynites serious cash back for energy-efficient upgrades. Whether you’re renting or own your home, you could qualify for hundreds in rebates on smart thermostats, high-efficiency heaters, and even insulation, plus free energy audits to uncover hidden savings. We’ll break down every dollar you can claim (and how to pocket it fast).
- Heating System Upgrades
- $400–$1,000 for high-efficiency boilers/furnaces (96%+ AFUE)
- $300 for tankless water heaters
- Smart Thermostats
- $50–$100 back for Nest, Ecobee, or other eligible models
- Home Weatherization
- Free insulation & air sealing for income-qualified households
- Up to $2,000 for duct sealing
- Appliance Rebates
- $50 for ENERGY STAR gas dryers
- $100 for ENERGY STAR gas ranges
Energy Saving Tip: Lower your thermostat by just 1-2°F at night to save ~5% on heating costs!
Water & Sewer in Brooklyn
Brooklyn’s water is some of the best in the country, sourced from upstate reservoirs. The New York City Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) manages water and sewer services, and unlike other utilities, you don’t get to choose your provider.
Key Details:
- Billing: Quarterly, based on water meter readings.
- No cost for water itself (but fees for sewer/usage).
- Conservation Tips: Report leaks quickly, they can adjust your bill!
Trash & Recycling in Brooklyn
Brooklyn follows NYC Department of Sanitations’ uniform trash and recycling rules, which means weekly pickups and clear (but firm) guidelines.
Key Rules:
- Trash: Collected 2-3x/week (varies by neighborhood).
- Recycling: Split into paper/cardboard and metal/glass/plastic.
- Bulk Items: Schedule pickups via 311.
Recycling Tip: No plastic bags in recycling bins, use clear bags instead!
Best Internet Providers in Brooklyn
Brooklyn’s internet game is strong, with fiber, cable, and 5G options depending on your neighborhood.
| Provider | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Optimum | Up to 1 Gbps | Most widespread |
| Verizon Fios | Up to 2 Gbps | Best fiber reliability |
| Spectrum | Up to 1 Gbps | No contracts |
| T-Mobile 5G | 100-300 Mbps | Wireless simplicity |
Wi-Fi Bonus: Many Brooklyn cafes (and even parks!) offer free Wi-Fi.
Final Tips for New Brooklyn Residents
- Compare energy suppliers yearly, rates fluctuate.
- Set up utilities before move-in (ConEd can take a few days).
- Recycle right to avoid fines.
- Bundle internet + TV if you want cable.
Green Energy and Conservation in Brooklyn
Brooklyn has a growing commitment to sustainability, and there are many ways for residents to participate in green energy and conservation programs.
Green Power Programs:
- Con Edison’s Clean Energy Marketplace allows you to compare and enroll in renewable electricity plans.
- Community Solar Programs let you subscribe to a local solar project and receive credits on your electric bill, no roof needed!
- NY-Sun Incentive Program helps homeowners install rooftop solar panels with state-backed financial assistance.
Energy-Saving Tips:
- Use LED bulbs and smart power strips
- Set thermostats to energy-saving settings
- Schedule a free home energy assessment through Con Edison or National Grid
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills
New York City and New York State offer several programs to help with utility bills if you’re facing financial hardship.
Programs to Know:
- HEAP (Home Energy Assistance Program)
Helps low-income households with heating and cooling costs. Applications open seasonally. - Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP)
May cover utility arrears in addition to rent if you’re behind due to hardship. - Con Edison Payment Assistance
- Budget billing to spread costs evenly over the year
- Payment extensions and hardship plans
- Energy Affordability Program (discounted rates for qualifying customers)
- National Grid Assistance Programs
- Energy Affordability Program for low-income residents
- Deferred payment agreements
- Arrears forgiveness programs
- DEP Water Bill Assistance
- The Home Water Assistance Program offers up to $115 annually for eligible senior and low-income homeowners.
- DEP also offers payment plans and shutoff protection for those in need.
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.
Fastest Internet Providers in Brooklyn
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Optimum | Cable & Fiber | 8 Gbps |
| Frontier | Fiber | 7 Gbps |
| Verizon Home Internet | Fiber | 5 Gbps |
| Spectrum | Cable | 2 Gbps |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 498 Mbps |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps |
| Hughesnet | Satellite | 100 Mbps |
*Not all speeds available in all areas
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I have two different energy companies?
Unlike many other places, Brooklyn splits its service. Con Edison (Con Ed) handles your electricity, while National Grid provides your natural gas. We recommend setting both up at least five business days before you move in so you aren’t left in the dark, or taking a cold shower, on your first night.
Can I choose a "green" energy provider?
Yes! New York has a “deregulated” market, meaning you can choose an Energy Service Company (ESCO) to supply your power. This is a fantastic way to ensure 100% of your electricity comes from renewable sources like wind or solar. Just keep an eye on the rates, as they can sometimes be higher than the standard Con Ed supply.
What should I do if I smell gas in my new apartment?
Safety is the absolute priority. If you smell a “rotten egg” scent, do not flip any light switches or use your phone inside. Get everyone out of the building immediately and call 911 or the National Grid emergency line at (718) 643-4050 from a safe distance.
What are the new "set-out" rules for trash in NYC?
The Department of Sanitation (DSNY) recently updated its rules to help keep our streets cleaner and rat-free. If you live in a small building, you must put your trash out after 6:00 p.m. in a secure bin of 55 gallons or less, or after 8:00 p.m. if you are using bags.
Is composting mandatory in Brooklyn?
It sure is! As of late 2024, all Brooklyn residents are required to separate food scraps and yard waste from their regular trash. You can use your own bin with a lid or request a brown “compost” bin from the city. We love this move, it keeps tons of waste out of landfills and turns it into “New York’s Strongest” compost instead!
How do I get rid of a mattress or an old couch?
Brooklyn makes it easy with bulk collection. You can place up to six large items on the curb on your regular collection day. Just a heads-up: mattresses and box springs must be sealed in a plastic bag to prevent the spread of bedbugs, otherwise, the city won’t pick them up.
Do I need to pay for water if I'm renting?
In the vast majority of Brooklyn rentals, the landlord pays for the water and sewer service. However, if you are buying a home, you’ll need to set up an account with the NYC Department of Environmental Protection (DEP). We suggest checking your account online once a month to look for “leak alerts” that could save you hundreds of dollars.
Is the tap water safe to drink?
New York City water is often called the “champagne of tap water” because it comes from protected reservoirs upstate. However, because Brooklyn has many older buildings, lead pipes can sometimes be a concern. We recommend ordering a free lead test kit from the city by calling 311 just to be on the safe side for your family.
Can my landlord force me to use a specific internet provider?
Actually, no! Under New York law, landlords generally cannot block a provider from installing service if a tenant requests it. While many buildings are pre-wired for Spectrum or Optimum, we highly recommend checking if Verizon Fios or honest networks are available at your address for faster, more reliable fiber-optic speeds.
Are there programs to help with high winter heating bills?
We know those Brooklyn winters can get pricey. If you need a little help, the Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) provides federally funded grants to help low-income neighbors pay for heating. You can also look into the Energy Affordability Program through National Grid or Con Ed for a monthly discount on your bill.
How do I navigate internet installation in a historic Brooklyn brownstone?
In historic brownstones and pre-war buildings across Brooklyn, routing fiber lines from Verizon Fios or Optimum requires exterior drilling or line drops across historic facades, which often requires express landlord or HOA approval. Before move-in, verify whether active fiber lines are already routed inside your unit; otherwise, you may need to rely on coaxial cable or 5G fixed wireless networks.