Find Utility Providers in Tennessee Search for electricity, natural gas, water, internet and trash providers for your home.

Tennessee Electricity Information

Tennessee generates electricity from a diverse mix of sources, with a strong reliance on nuclear power, which provides nearly half of the state’s electricity, followed by natural gas, coal, and renewables like hydroelectric and solar. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned utility, plays a central role in power generation and distribution, ensuring reliable and affordable energy for residents. Electricity consumption in the state is moderate, with residential use driven by heating and cooling needs, while industrial demand is supported by the state’s manufacturing sector.

Electricity prices in Tennessee are generally below the national average, thanks to the TVA’s efficient operations and the state’s access to low-cost energy sources. However, like elsewhere, prices can fluctuate with fuel costs and infrastructure investments. On the emissions front, Tennessee has made progress in reducing carbon emissions by transitioning from coal to cleaner energy sources, though challenges remain in balancing economic growth with environmental goals. The state continues to invest in renewable energy and energy efficiency programs to create a more sustainable energy future.

Can I Choose My Electric Provider in Tennessee?

Unlike some states with “deregulated” energy markets where you can shop for different electric rates, Tennessee has a regulated energy market.

How it works: Your electric provider is determined by where you live. You cannot switch providers without moving to a new address.
The Role of TVA: Most electricity in the state is generated by the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), a federally owned corporation. The TVA sells this power to local power companies (like NES in Nashville, KUB in Knoxville, or MLGW in Memphis), who then deliver it to your home.
The Benefit: Because of this structure, Tennessee residents often enjoy stable rates that are generally lower than the national average.

Find Electricity Providers In Tennessee

Electricity Production

Primary Source

Nuclear

Total Generation: 77,791,204 MWh
Ranks 19th Highest in the U.S.
Average Price: 13.98¢ /kWh
Ranks 20th Cheapest in the U.S.
Average Electric Bill: $144.25
Ranks 35th Cheapest in the U.S.

Electricity Production By Source

Emissions From Electricity Generation

Carbon Dioxide Emissions Rank

26th Highest

25,297 TMT

Sulfer Dioxide Emissions Rank

22nd Highest

17,184 tn

Nitrogen Oxide Emissions Rank

37th Highest

12,084 tn

Renewable Electricity Generation

Renewable Production Rank

27th Highest

9,019,219 MWh
11.59% of Total Production

Source U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) Based on data from 2023

Energy Usage in Tennessee

Energy Usage Per Capita Rank

30th Lowest

Average Per Person: 298 million BTU

Electricity demand in Tennessee is driven as much by its climate as by the way people live across the state. From Memphis summers that keep air conditioners running nonstop to chilly winter mornings in the Appalachian foothills, power use sees sharp seasonal swings. Many households rely on electric heat pumps, which boost winter consumption more than in states where natural gas dominates heating. On top of that, Tennessee’s strong manufacturing presence, from automotive plants to chemical production, keeps industrial electricity use high year-round. Together, these factors make Tennessee one of the heavier electricity users in the Southeast, with both geography and industry leaving their mark on the grid.

Municipal Utilities in Tennessee

While most cities, towns, and villages throughout the state of Tennessee offer municipal essential services like providing clean water, sewage treatment and dealing with waste and storm water, some also offer other services like electricity, natural gas, sanitation or recycling. In Tennessee, 60 cities offer municipal electricity utility services to their residents.

Largest Electric Companies in Tennessee

The rest of Tennessee receives electric utility service from one of many primary providers. Here’s a list of some of the larger providers that might be available to your home:

Tennessee Natural Gas Information

Tennessee’s natural gas use looks a bit different than in colder northern states. While many Midwestern states see demand spike almost entirely in the winter for home heating, Tennessee’s Southeastern climate means summer air conditioning plays just as big of a role. Natural gas-fired power plants step in to meet high electricity loads during long, humid summers, while residential heating creates a steady but smaller rise in consumption during cooler months. This balance makes natural gas more of a year-round backbone in Tennessee, fueling both comfort in homes and reliability across the grid.

Average Natural Gas Price

$1.896 /CCF

Ranks 19th Cheapest in the U.S.

Average Natural Gas Bill

$101 /month

Ranks 24th Cheapest in the U.S.

Natural Gas Usage Per Capita

35th Lowest

Average Per Person: 60.60 MCFs Annually

Largest Natural Gas Companies in Tennessee

Many of the residents of Tennessee receive their natural gas utility service from one of the larger companies that service the state.

Find Natural Gas Providers In Tennessee

Tennessee Internet Connectivity

Broadband Availability

91.65%

Ranks 37th in the U.S.

Percent of Ppopulation with access to 100 Mbps download and 20 Mbps upload

1 Gig Availability

59.99%

Ranks 49th in the U.S.

Percent of population with access to download speeds of 1 Gbps

Fiber Availability

53.06%

Ranks 44th in the U.S.

Percent of population with access to Fiber Internet

Largest Internet Providers in Tennessee

When it comes to high-speed internet, homes in Tennessee have plenty of options to stay connected! From bustling cities to quiet rural areas, a variety of providers offer reliable service across the state. Here are some of the biggest names keeping Tennessee homes online and in the loop:

Find Internet Providers In Tennessee

Going Solar in Tennessee: What You Need to Know

Tennessee receives plenty of sunlight, making solar a viable option, but the financial incentives differ from other states.

No State Mandate for Net Metering: Tennessee does not have a state-wide law requiring utility companies to buy back your extra solar energy at the full retail rate. This means "Net Metering" policies vary wildly by local utility. Always check with your local utility provider before signing a solar contract.
Green Energy Property Tax Assessment: Tennessee offers a property tax exemption for solar systems. You will generally be taxed on only 12.5% of the system's value, rather than the full 100%, preventing your property taxes from spiking due to the upgrade.
TVA EnergyRight: The TVA maintains a list of vetted, quality contractor networks. Visit the TVA EnergyRight Solar page to find trustworthy installers and avoid scams.

Utility Costs in Tennessee

The average monthly total utility bills in Tennessee is $280.81, which is 1.32% higher than the national average.

Average Electric Bill

$144

Higher than national average

Average Natural Gas Bill

$101

Lower than national average

Average Water Bill

$36

Lower than national average

Assistance for Paying Utility Bills in Tennessee

If you are struggling to pay your utility bills in Tennessee, several government and non-profit programs can provide financial relief. Assistance is often available for heating, cooling, and water costs, with specific funds set aside for vulnerable populations including seniors, veterans, and students.

State-Wide Energy Assistance Programs

Most utility assistance in Tennessee is administered through local community action agencies. The two primary programs available to most residents are:

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This federally funded program helps low-income households meet their immediate home energy needs. It is administered locally by agencies such as the Tennessee Housing Development Agency (THDA) and regional partners like ETHRA (East TN) or the Metro Action Commission (Nashville). Applications typically open in the fall (often November) and are available until funds are exhausted.
- Who Qualifies: Residents meeting specific income guidelines (typically 150% of the federal poverty level).
- How to Apply: Find your local administering agency here to submit an application.
Project Help: Administered by many local utility companies (such as KUB, NES, and MLGW), this program uses community donations to provide emergency energy assistance.
- Who Qualifies: Often focuses on those in crisis who may not qualify for other federal aid, or who have exhausted other options.
- How to Apply: Contact your local utility provider’s customer service department directly or check their website for “Project Help” or “Share the Warmth” initiatives.

Special Programs for Seniors (Age 60+)

Seniors are often given priority status for energy assistance funds to ensure they remain safe during extreme weather.

Priority Processing: When applying for LIHEAP, households with members age 60 or older are often eligible for priority processing or early application windows.
Emergency Crisis Assistance: Many “Project Help” programs managed by local utilities (like Middle Tennessee Electric) specifically designate funds for elderly members on fixed incomes who are facing disconnection.
Local Agencies: Organizations like the South Central Human Resource Agency often have specific coordinators to help seniors navigate the application process.

Assistance for Students

College students in Tennessee facing financial hardship may be eligible for university-specific emergency funds. These funds are designed to prevent students from dropping out due to one-time financial crises, including utility shut-offs.

University of Tennessee, Knoxville: The Basic Needs Emergency Fund can assist enrolled students with non-fixed utilities (electricity, water) that are in danger of being disconnected.
University of Memphis: The Dr. Rosie Phillips Davis Student Emergency Fund offers grants (typically up to $500) for unexpected expenses, including utility bills.
University of Tennessee at Chattanooga: The Student Emergency Fund covers past-due electric, gas, and water bills for students in financial distress.
Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU): Students can apply for MTSU Emergency Financial Assistance, which provides grants for verified needs that impact a student’s ability to continue their education.

Note for Students: If your school is not listed, contact your university’s Dean of Students or Financial Aid Office to ask about “Emergency Aid” or “Crisis Grants.”

Assistance for Veterans

Veterans in Tennessee have access to specialized resources that can assist with housing stability, including utility payments.

Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF): This program provides financial assistance to veterans who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless. Funds can often be used for utility deposits or back-payments to keep services running.
- Provider: Veterans Inc. and other local non-profits administer these grants.
Operation Stand Down Tennessee: A primary resource for veterans in the state, offering a wide range of services including referrals for temporary financial assistance. Visit their website to request services.
County Service Officers: Every county in Tennessee has a Veteran Service Officer (VSO) who can help connect veterans with local relief funds and state benefits. Find your local VSO here.