- Unlimited Data with Qualifying Plans
- Free panaromic Wi-Fi for 2 years
- Free Cox Security Suite powered by McAfee
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps
Quick Utility Facts
- The electric and natural gas utility is Rhode Island Energy, call them if you have a power outage.
- You are automatically enrolled in Community Choice Aggregation program, but you have the right to choose a different provider.
- The primary internet choices, for most homes, are Verizon Fios and Cox. Verizon offers the fastest plans with speeds up to 5 Gbps.
- The cheapest internet plan in Providence is $35.00/month from Verizon 5G Home Internet.
- The City of Providence provides water, trash, and recycling services. Trash is contracted to Waste Management, who performs the actual pick up.
Top 3 Electric Providers in Providence
- 15.29¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 17.1¢ /kWh
- Renewable Energy Option
- 11.09¢ /kWh
Electricity across Providence is delivered physically by Rhode Island Energy (a PPL Corporation subsidiary), which maintains the regional power grid, overhead lines, and digital meters, and manages outage restoration across the state. Under Rhode Island’s deregulated energy choice market, the City of Providence operates a default Community Choice Aggregation program known as Providence Community Electricity (PCE). When establishing electric service, new residential accounts are automatically enrolled in the PCE Standard tier (sourcing 5% additional local renewable energy) unless you actively opt out to remain on Rhode Island Energy’s default Last Resort Service or select an independent competitive supplier. Billed through Rhode Island Energy, all-in residential electricity costs generally average between 24 and 28 cents per kWh, combining competitive generation rates with state-approved delivery tariffs, transmission fees, and renewable energy riders. To mitigate high New England winter energy expenses — particularly in older multi-family triple-deckers relying on electric supplemental heating — households can utilize Rhode Island Energy’s energy efficiency audit programs and shift major appliance usage to off-peak hours.
Natural Gas Providers in Providence
Natural gas service across the city is distributed by Rhode Island Energy, which owns, operates, and maintains the physical underground pipeline mains and responds to gas leak emergencies. While Rhode Island law permits retail gas choice for commercial accounts, residential natural gas supply and delivery remain bundled under state-approved tariffs regulated by the Rhode Island Public Utilities Commission (PUC). Rhode Island Energy assesses a mandatory fixed monthly customer charge alongside volumetric delivery rates and safety modernization riders on every residential statement. Because natural gas is heavily relied upon to fire radiant steam boilers, hydronic baseboard systems, central forced-air furnaces, and domestic water heaters during freezing winter months, volumetric consumption drops sharply in the summer. However, this fixed baseline customer charge ensures your natural gas account carries a persistent monthly maintenance fee year-round, even in July and August when space-heating systems sit completely dormant.
Top 10 Internet Providers in Providence
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 93.83%
- $49.99/mo
- Get NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube
- 2 Gbps
- Cable
- 1.25 TB
- TV & Phone
- 92.79%
- $55.00/mo
- 5 Year Price Lock*
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Great for Renters
- 498 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 92.35%
- $50.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 92.35%
- $40.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $55.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 32.34%
- $30.00/mo
- Lock in Your Price for 5 Years
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 1.15%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
Internet across Providence represent a high-speed, competitive market heavily dominated by a widespread Verizon Fios fiber-to-the-home footprint, a near-universal hybrid-coaxial cable network from Cox Communications, and localized coverage from high-speed fixed wireless providers. Symmetrical fiber connections deliver exceptional low-latency bandwidth ideal for remote employment, higher education research, and media streaming, but physical line availability depends heavily on neighborhood architecture. Moving into a historic colonial or Victorian home on the East Side, College Hill, Fox Point, or an established multi-family triple-decker in Federal Hill or Elmwood can reveal older interior wiring, thick plaster walls, or strict historic district exterior guidelines that complicate fiber line drops. Furthermore, modern loft conversions in the Jewelry District and high-rise developments downtown frequently feature exclusive corporate property marketing agreements that restrict unit-level inside wiring to a single ISP.
Water & Sewage Providers in Providence
Water and wastewater utilities operate through a dual-agency municipal framework split between Providence Water for clean drinking water and the Narragansett Bay Commission (NBC) for regional sewer collection and wastewater treatment. Potable water is sourced from the pristine Scituate Reservoir and billed by Providence Water based on metered volumetric intake (around $4.05 per hundred cubic feet / HCF for residential accounts) alongside base meter charges. In parallel, the Narragansett Bay Commission issues an independent sewer statement that combines a mandatory flat customer fee ($309.87 per dwelling unit per year) with a volumetric treatment charge ($4.972 per HCF) calculated directly from 100 percent of your metered water intake. Furthermore, Providence Water is actively executing an Accelerated Lead Service Line Replacement Program to replace all public and private lead lines across the city for free by 2033. Because NBC sewer fees scale directly with total incoming water volume, an unaddressed running toilet or indoor plumbing leak will artificially inflate two separate utility statements simultaneously.
Top 3 Trash and Recycling Providers in Providence
Trash and single-stream recycling collection services are operated by the City of Providence Department of Public Works (DPW) (contracted through Waste Management) strictly for residential properties containing six or fewer dwelling units (buildings with seven or more units must contract private commercial haulers). Providence utilizes an automated cart system featuring gray carts with black lids for household trash and all-blue carts for loose, single-stream recyclables. To combat severe contamination fees, the city strictly bans plastic grocery and garbage bags inside the blue recycling cart; all cardboard, metal cans, glass, and plastic containers must be placed in the cart completely loose. Bins must be rolled curbside by 6:00 AM on collection morning with lids fully shut and 3 feet of spatial clearance from obstacles. Bulky item collection (furniture, large appliances) must be pre-scheduled with Waste Management online or by phone, while mattresses require specialized disposal arrangements through DPW.
Utilities Summary for Providence, RI
| Electric Companies: | 3 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 3 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Explore Utility Providers in Providence
Providence, Rhode Island’s charming and historic capital, known for its rich colonial heritage, thriving arts scene, and beautiful riverfront views. Whether you’re settling into one of its classic triple-decker homes or a sleek downtown apartment, getting your utilities set up is one of the first big tasks. This guide walks you through everything you need to know about electricity, natural gas, water, trash services, internet providers, green energy options, and financial assistance, all tailored for someone new to the Ocean State’s capital city.
Electricity in Providence
Electricity service in Providence is delivered by Rhode Island Energy (formerly National Grid). While Rhode Island Energy manages the poles and wires and delivers electricity to your home, Rhode Island is a deregulated state, meaning you can choose a third-party electricity supplier for the supply portion of your bill.
Energy Efficiency Programs
Rhode Island Energy participates in EnergyWise and Energy Star® programs through Rhode Island Energy Efficiency and RISE Engineering, offering:
- Free home energy assessments
- Rebates on high-efficiency HVAC systems, insulation, smart thermostats, and lighting
- Up to 100% of the cost for insulation and air sealing based on eligibility
Choosing a Supplier (Electricity Deregulation)
You can shop for electricity supply from certified competitive suppliers. These suppliers offer fixed-rate or variable-rate plans and may include renewable energy options.
Top Electricity Suppliers in Providence
- Direct Energy: Competitive fixed rates, green energy plans
- Constellation: Offers fixed-rate stability and renewable options
- Verde Energy: 100% renewable energy plans
- Rhode Island Energy Standard Offer: Default supply if you don’t select a third-party provider
Tips for Choosing a Supplier
- Compare rates per kWh and contract terms carefully
- Avoid early termination fees if you anticipate moving again soon
- Consider a renewable energy plan for a greener footprint
Natural Gas in Providence
Natural gas service in Providence is also managed by Rhode Island Energy. Unlike electricity, natural gas is not deregulated for residential customers in Rhode Island (just commercial), so you must use Rhode Island Energy as your supplier and distributor.
Natural Gas Services and Rebates
Rhode Island Energy offers rebates and incentives for:
- ENERGY STAR® gas furnaces, boilers, and water heaters
- Weatherization and air sealing
- Smart thermostats
You can schedule a free energy audit to determine which rebates your home qualifies for. Many rebates are instant and can be applied through approved contractors.
Water and Sewer in Providence
Water service in Providence is handled by the Providence Water Supply Board, which sources drinking water from the Scituate Reservoir, Rhode Island’s largest freshwater body. Sewer services are managed by the Narragansett Bay Commission.
Providence Water Supply Board
- Offers online account management, conservation tips, and water quality reports
- Provides leak detection assistance and low-income payment plans
Narragansett Bay Commission
- Manages sewer services and stormwater drainage
- Offers Clean Water Action programs and educational outreach for water protection
Both organizations encourage water conservation and offer educational resources for new residents looking to reduce consumption.
Trash and Recycling in Providence
The City of Providence provides weekly curbside trash and recycling collection for residents in one-to-four unit homes.
Key Information:
- Trash pickup is weekly and must be in city-provided bins (gray for trash, green for recycling)
- Recycling is single-stream, no sorting required!
- Yard waste is collected seasonally (April–December)
- Bulky items can be scheduled for pickup through the Mayor’s Center for City Services
Residents are encouraged to download the Recycle Together RI app to view collection schedules and recycling rules.
Top Internet Providers in Providence
Providence offers a competitive selection of internet providers, whether you need ultra-fast fiber or a more affordable cable connection. Availability may vary slightly by neighborhood.
Top Internet Providers:
- Verizon Fios
- Wide availability, covering around 91% of the city
- Fiber-optic internet with speeds up to 1 Gbps
- Great for streaming, gaming, or working from home
- Bundles with mobile plans for discounts
- Cox Communications
- Also covers about 91% of the city
- Cable internet with speeds from 100 Mbps to 1 Gbps
- Offers TV and phone bundles
- Panoramic WiFi upgrades available
- T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Wireless home internet with no annual contract
- Great for renters or those without wired service
- Bundle with mobile phone service to save
Green Energy and Conservation
Rhode Island has made substantial progress in clean energy, with goals for 100% renewable electricity by 2033. Residents can contribute through state programs or personal upgrades.
Ways to Go Green:
- Choose a third-party supplier offering 100% renewable energy
- Enroll in Renewable Energy Growth Program through Rhode Island Energy to sell back solar power
- Apply for solar rebates and incentives via Commerce RI’s Renewable Energy Fund
- Use ENERGY STAR® certified appliances and smart thermostats to lower your carbon footprint
Rhode Island also has statewide climate goals, and Providence participates in Resilient PVD, a citywide initiative to build climate resilience and reduce emissions.
Financial Assistance Programs for Utilities in Providence
Utility bills can add up, but there are several city and state programs to help eligible residents keep the lights on and homes warm.
Key Assistance Programs:
- LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program)
Provides help with heating and cooling bills for income-eligible households
Apply through Community Action Partnership of Providence County - Good Neighbor Energy Fund
A utility-sponsored program for households that don’t qualify for LIHEAP but are still facing financial hardship - Rhode Island Energy Discount Rate
Eligible customers can receive a 25%-30% discount on electric and gas bills
Apply directly through Rhode Island Energy’s customer service - Water and Sewer Discount Programs
Offered through Providence Water and the Narragansett Bay Commission for low-income seniors and disabled residents
If you’re struggling to pay bills, it’s a good idea to contact your utility providers early, many offer flexible payment plans or budget billing options to ease monthly costs.
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.
Providence Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Providence
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed |
|---|---|---|
| Verizon Home Internet | Fiber | 5 Gbps |
| Cox | Cable | 2 Gbps |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 498 Mbps |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies |
| Xfinity | Cable & Fiber | 2 Gbps |
| Spectrum | Cable | 2 Gbps |
*Not all speeds available in all areas
Providence 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.
Providence's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 60 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
How does "Energy Choice" work in Providence?
Since Rhode Island is a deregulated state, you have the power to choose who supplies your electricity. While Rhode Island Energy will always deliver the power and handle repairs, you can shop for a supplier that offers a lower rate or a higher percentage of renewable energy. We recommend visiting Empower RI, the state’s official comparison site, to see your options — it is a great way to support local green energy!
What should I do if I smell gas in my new home?
Your safety is the most important thing! If you smell a “rotten egg” odor, do not turn on any lights, use a phone inside, or light a match. Evacuate everyone from the building immediately and, once you are at a safe distance, call 911 and the Rhode Island Energy emergency line at (800) 640-1595.
Is there a "Cold Weather Rule" in Rhode Island?
Yes, there is. From Nov. 1 through April 15, Rhode Island Energy generally cannot shut off your heat or electricity if you are “financially hardship protected” or have a serious illness in the house. However, you must still communicate with them to set up a payment plan, we always suggest calling them early if you think you might fall behind during the winter months.
Is the tap water in Providence safe to drink?
Generally, yes! Providence Water gets its supply from the Scituate Reservoir, and it is consistently rated as some of the best water in the region. However, because many Providence homes were built before 1950, there is a chance your service line could be made of lead. We recommend checking the Providence Water Lead Service Map or requesting a free lead test kit by calling (401) 521-5070.
Do I need to pay for water if I am renting?
In most Providence rentals, the landlord pays the water bill. However, some newer leases or single-family rentals might pass that cost on to you. Be sure to double-check your lease agreement before you move in so you aren’t surprised by an extra bill in the mail.
How do I get rid of large items like a mattress or a sofa?
Providence allows for “bulky item” pickup, but you have to schedule it in advance. You can call 311 or use the PVD 311 app to make an appointment. Just a heads-up: there is a small fee for certain items, usually around $25 for a mattress, and you must wrap mattresses in plastic before they hit the curb.
What do I do if my new home is missing its trash or recycling bins?
If you arrive and find your “Big Blue” (recycling) or “Big Green” (trash) bins are missing, the city has you covered. You can request a replacement bin through the PVD 311 system. We love that the city makes it easy to keep our streets clean and our recycling sorted!
Does trash pickup change for holidays?
It does. In Providence, if a holiday falls on a weekday, the trash and recycling schedule usually “slides” one day later for the rest of the week. If you are ever unsure, the PVD 311 app is a fantastic neighbor to have on your phone for real-time updates.
Which internet provider is the fastest in Providence?
Most of our neighbors choose between Verizon Fios and Cox, though Astound Broadband is also a popular choice in certain pockets of the city. If you are looking for the most reliable speeds for working from home, we suggest checking if Fios is available at your specific address about two weeks before you move.
Are there programs to help with my utility bills?
Absolutely. We want to make sure everyone in our community stays warm and connected. You can apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) through your local Community Action Agency. Additionally, Rhode Island Energy offers a Low Income Rate that can provide a significant discount on your monthly electric and gas bills if you qualify.
How does Providence Community Electricity (PCE) work on my Rhode Island Energy bill?
Providence Community Electricity is the city’s default municipal aggregation program. Rhode Island Energy continues to deliver your power, maintain lines, and send your monthly bill, but the supply portion of your statement reflects the negotiated PCE rate (supplied via NextEra). New residents receive a 30-day notice and are automatically enrolled in the PCE Standard rate unless they opt out to Rhode Island Energy’s default Last Resort Service or an alternative supplier.
How does Providence Water's Lead Service Line Replacement Program work?
Under Rhode Island legislation and local initiatives, Providence Water offers free public and private lead service line replacements to eliminate lead pipes citywide by 2033. Property owners can check the online Lead Service Location Map and submit a Right of Entry form to be scheduled for fully funded line replacement.
Why do I receive two separate water and sewer bills in Providence?
Clean drinking water and regional sewage processing are operated by two distinct entities. You will receive a water statement from Providence Water for your metered supply from the Scituate Reservoir, and a separate sewer bill from the Narragansett Bay Commission (NBC) covering regional wastewater treatment ($309.87/year base fee + ~$4.972/HCF consumption fee).