- 5 Year Price Lock
- Free WiFi Equipment
- Free Xfinity Mobile Line for 1 year
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps
- Plans starting at $45/month
Electric Providers in Richmond
Electricity in Richmond is provided by Dominion Energy, and you should initiate service through their website or by calling at least three business days before your move. We recommend downloading the Dominion Energy app immediately, as their “Smart Meter” features allow you to track your daily usage and receive high-usage alerts before your bill arrives.
Natural Gas Providers in Richmond
Natural gas for most residents within the city limits is managed by the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU), which conveniently bundles your heating fuel with your other municipal services. You’ll need to register for a “New Customer” account via the DPU portal at least five business days in advance to ensure your heat and hot water are active for move-in day.
Top 9 Internet Providers in Richmond
Internet options in Richmond are excellent, with Verizon Fios and Xfinity being the primary high-speed providers across most residential neighborhoods. Since Richmond is a growing tech and arts hub, we suggest checking for Verizon Fios availability at least two weeks before your move to secure their symmetrical fiber-optic speeds and a preferred installation window.
- 2.3 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 85.5%
- $49.99/mo
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 98.81%
- $45.00/mo
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.94%
- $20.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.82%
- $65.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 99.77%
- $50.00/mo
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 7 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Phone
- Limited%
- $29.99/mo
Water & Sewage Providers in Richmond
Water and sewer services are also provided by the City of Richmond DPU, meaning you’ll receive a single, consolidated statement for gas, water, and waste. It is important to note that Richmond has a historic combined sewer system, so your bill will include a specific “Stormwater Utility” fee that helps maintain the city’s infrastructure and the health of the James River.
Top 8 Trash and Recycling Providers in Richmond
Trash and recycling collection is the final piece of your consolidated City of Richmond DPU bill, with fees automatically included in your municipal statement. For those moving into historic neighborhoods like The Fan or the Museum District, trash is typically collected in the alleys behind the homes rather than at the front curb, so be sure to check your specific address for your designated pickup spot.
Utilities Summary for Richmond, VA
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 8 |
| Municipal Electricity: | Yes |
From Power to Wi-Fi: Everything You Need to Know About Utilities in Richmond
Richmond is a lively city steeped in history and brimming with modern energy. Located along the scenic James River, it blends urban convenience with Southern charm. Government, finance, and law anchor the economy here, and Dominion Energy is proudly headquartered in the city . Whether you’re a craft beer fan exploring Scott’s Addition or commuting into downtown, you’ll find Richmond a welcoming place to call home.
Electricity
Richmond’s electricity is provided by Dominion Energy, one of the nation’s largest energy companies, with roots deeply planted in Virginia. Known for reliability, the utility draws power from nuclear, coal, and natural-gas plants.
Energy Rebates & Programs
- Home efficiency rebates: Rebates available for smart thermostats, insulation, ENERGY STAR appliances, and LED lighting via the Dominion marketplace.
- Peak Time Rebates Program: Earn $1.25 per kWh saved during peak hours (about 10 events a year) by reducing usage, ideal for shifting heavy loads off-peak.
- Water-energy rebate: Up to $400 back on ENERGY STAR heat-pump water heaters, and $300 on variable-speed pool pumps.
Dominion even offers a virtual energy audit and rewards for behavior changes, not just installations. They frequently run instant rebates at local retailers like Lowe’s, Habitat for Humanity, and Dollar Tree.
Natural Gas
Richmond Gas Works (RGW) is Richmond’s municipally owned gas utility and the third oldest gas utility in the U.S., operating since 1851. It serves the city proper and parts of Henrico and Chesterfield counties. As a public utility, RGW offers dependable, cost-based pricing, so you’re only paying for the gas you use, plus delivery, no markup.
Why Richmond Gas Works Rocks
- Affordable & efficient heating: The utility claims residential customers save around $874/year by using gas for heating, cooking, and drying versus electricity.
- Environmentally friendlier gas options: Natural gas emits fewer carbon emissions than oil or coal, and Richmond is exploring decarbonization plans to pivot toward cleaner energy.
- Safety-first approach: RGW abides by strict federal and state regulations, monitors thousands of miles of pipeline, and ensures rapid response to hazardous leaks.
- Service reliability: RGW handles everything from meter swaps to main extensions; typical service hook-up time is 3–5 days, or longer if new infrastructure is needed.
Things to Know When Signing Up
- Check if gas infrastructure already exists at your address, extensions can take up to 90–120 days.
- Homeowners can connect gas appliances like water heaters, fireplaces, fireplaces, ranges, dryers, or outdoor grills, always with technician oversight.
Water and Sewer
Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities (DPU) handles drinking water and wastewater services, separate from gas and electric utilities. Drawing from the James River, the city’s water treatment plant can process up to 132 million gallons per day, serving roughly 500,000 people across Richmond and neighboring counties.
Noteworthy Water Details
- Chlorinated and fluoridated: The city adds fluoride (~0.7 mg/L) to support dental health, well under EPA limits.
- Recent infrastructure concerns: In January 2025, equipment issues led to a temporary boil water advisory, paving the way for new investments in treatment facility upgrades.
- Regional supply: Richmond sells water wholesale to Henrico, Chesterfield, and Hanover, making it not just a city resource but a regional backbone.
Tips for Water Efficiency
- Install low-flow fixtures in showers and faucets.
- Fix leaks promptly, this saves water and reduces wear on aging infrastructure.
- Take advantage of DPU’s yard waste and composting programs to lessen environmental impact and support community sustainability.
Trash and Recycling
In-city Richmond residents receive trash, recycling, and yard waste pickup through Department of Utilities (DPU) based services. A few highlights:
- Weekly curbside trash and recycling.
- Yard waste is collected separately, typically biweekly or by subscription.
- DPU provides guidance on hazardous waste drop-offs and seasonal bulk-item pickup.
- Richmond encourages composting and offers educational programs, great for eco-conscious newcomers!
Best Internet Providers in Richmond
Richmond has a variety of internet providers to keep you connected at home. Here are the top options:
1. Xfinity
- Available to ~99%; speeds up to 2 Gbps.
- Cable plans bundle with TV/mobile/home security; good overall reliability.
2. Verizon Home Internet
- Covers ~80% of the city
- Speeds range up to 2.3 Gbps over their symmetrical fiber network
- Wireless 5G
- Speeds up to ~415 Mbps
- No contract, free two-day shipping, and a 15-day test drive
- Nationwide coverage with ~300 Mbps
- Ideal for more rural or underserved spots
Green Energy & Conservation
Richmond promotes sustainability through several measures:
- Richmond’s yard-waste collection and composting guidance helps reduce landfill waste.
- Dominion’s rebates on ENERGY STAR appliances and peak-time energy reductions help nudge folks toward greener choices.
- Virginia’s Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit offers 30% back (up to thresholds) on heat pumps, insulation, solar, EV chargers, battery storage, and more.
- Pool pump and heat pump water heater rebates encourage more efficient household systems.
Financial Aid & Utility Assistance in Richmond
City of Richmond Energy & Utility Assistance
The City’s Division of Economic Support & Independence (ES&I) runs several seasonal and crisis grant programs:
- Fuel Assistance (Winter Heating): Helps low-income households pay heating bills. Available Oct 2 through Nov 2, with decisions by mid‑December.
- Crisis Assistance: For emergencies like equipment failure or loss of heat. Applications open Nov 1–Mar 15, awards based on need .
- Cooling Assistance (Summer): Helps with air conditioners, fans, cooling deposits, or electric bills during June 15–Aug 15 .
DPU’s “Don’t Delay, Pay Today!” Programs
Richmond’s Department of Public Utilities (DPU) helps water and wastewater customers through:
- PromisePay Payment Plans: Flexible repayment arrangements for past-due balances
- LIHWAP (Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program): Federally funded to pay water/wastewater bills for those under 150% FPL.
- MetroCare Programs: Water Assistance & Conservation credit adjustments and up to $500 for heating or water bill relief.
Dominion Energy (Electric & Gas) Aid Programs
Dominion Energy and Virginia DSS collaborate on multiple relief initiatives:
- State Fuel & Crisis Assistance: Run by VA DSS through CommonHelp (855‑635‑4370). Heating support runs Oct 10–Nov 15; crisis help is Jan 1–Mar 15.
- State Cooling Assistance: Applied Jun 15–Aug 15, inclusive of bill or deposit aid.
- EnergyShare® (Dominion-sponsored): Year-round crisis relief ($600 heating, $300 cooling). Also includes weatherization upgrades (LEDs, insulation, HVAC tune-ups) for eligible households
- Senior Cool Care: Free single-room AC units for income-eligible seniors in cooler months, administered locally by Area Agencies on Aging.
- PIPP (Percent of Income Payment Program): For Dominion customers ≤150% FPL; pays either 6% (Gas) or 10% (Electric plus heat included) of monthly income. On-time payments reduce past-due balances over 12 months.
Federal & Nonprofit Assistance
- LIHEAP (Federal): State-administered via VA DSS. Offers one-time heating/cooling bill support for low-income households (≤150% FPL or ≤60% SMI).
- WAP – Weatherization Assistance Program: Pairs with LIHEAP to provide free home upgrades (air sealing, insulation, efficient fixtures) to reduce energy bills.
- Dollar Energy Fund – VA Utility Assistance: Offers grants (up to $500, varies) to customers behind on utility bills (electric, gas, water), first come, first served.
- project:HOMES & Viridiant (Local Nonprofits): Delivers weatherization services and critical home repairs to low-income homeowners in Richmond/Henrico/Chesterfield. Viridiant offers affordable energy audits and guidance on cost-effective improvements
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.
Richmond Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in Richmond
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon Home Internet | Fiber | 2.3 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Xfinity | Cable & Fiber | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 415 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Viasat | Satellite | 150 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Frontier | Fiber | 7 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
Richmond 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.
Richmond's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 100 ppb
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
Why is my "City Bill" so massive?
In Richmond, the Department of Public Utilities (DPU) is a “super-utility.” Your monthly statement combines Natural Gas, Water, Wastewater, Stormwater, and Trash/Recycling. While it’s convenient to have only one login, the total amount can be a surprise since it covers almost every essential home service in one shot.
What is the "Alley Pickup" etiquette in The Fan?
If you’re moving into a historic district, look behind your house! Unlike the suburbs where you roll bins to the street, most Richmond “city” neighborhoods use the alleys.
Pro tip: Make sure your house number is clearly painted on your bins; otherwise, they tend to “wander” during heavy rain or wind.
Is the water from the James River safe to drink?
Yes, but Richmonders are picky about it. The water is sourced from the James River and treated at a world-class facility, but because of the city’s historic plumbing, some residents in older homes notice a slight mineral taste. You’ll see a lot of “Brita culture” in the city, but the tap water is strictly tested and safe.
What should I know about DPU Customer Service?
The Richmond DPU is famously busy. If you need to call them to set up service, do it as early as possible, ideally right when they open at 8:00 a.m. Better yet, use the RVA311 app or website to submit service requests; it’s much faster than waiting on hold.
How do I handle "The Boxes" after moving to a city rowhome?
Richmond is strict about “Wish-cycling.” If you have a mountain of cardboard, you must flatten it and ensure it fits inside your blue bin. If you leave a stack of boxes on the curb or in the alley, the automated trucks will often bypass them. For a massive move-out, we recommend taking your cardboard to the East End or Northside Transfer Stations.
Does Dominion Energy have "Green" options?
Yes! While you can’t choose a different provider, you can enroll in Dominion’s “Green Power” program. You can choose to match 100% of your usage with Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) for a small additional monthly fee, which is a popular move for RVA residents looking to lower their carbon footprint.
When is "Leaf Vacuuming" season?
If your new street is lined with massive sycamores or oaks, you’ll love the Leaf Collection Program. From November through February, the city runs vacuum trucks. You just rake your leaves to the curb (not the street!) and they’ll be sucked away. Check the RVA311 map for your specific “Phase” dates so you don’t miss the window.