- Free Xfinity Mobile Line for 1 year
- Free Peacock Premium*
- Free WiFi Equipment for 24 months
- $100 Visa Prepaid Cards for students
Quick Utility Facts
- Dominion Energy is the electric utility in Richmond.
- The City of Richmond DPU handles natural gas (Richmond Gas Works), trash, and water services.
- The primary internet service providers available to most homes are Verizon Fios and Xfinity.
- The cheapest internet plan in Richmond is $30.00/month from Verizon Home Internet.
Electric Providers in Richmond
Electricity across the River City is supplied exclusively by Dominion Energy Virginia, an investor-owned public utility operating under a regulated monopoly framework overseen by the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). You can establish service directly through Dominion Energy’s online portal. Residential accounts (billed under Schedule 1) pay an effective rate generally averaging between 12.5 and 14.5 cents per kWh, which combines a basic monthly customer charge, base volumetric generation and distribution rates, transmission riders, and fuel factor adjustments. Hot, humid Central Virginia summers combined with urban heat island effects push central air conditioning hard from June through September. In historic neighborhoods where older brick masonry and high ceilings increase cooling loads, power bills can climb quickly. To manage costs, Dominion offers optional Time-of-Use plans (such as the Off-Peak Plan Schedule 1G) and smart thermostat incentives, making it worthwhile to pre-cool living spaces in the morning and shift heavy power loads — such as laundry, dishwashers, and electric vehicle charging — away from peak afternoon cooling windows.
Natural Gas Providers in Richmond
Natural gas service across the city is provided by Richmond Gas Works, an operating division of the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU). Richmond Gas Works is one of the oldest municipally owned natural gas utilities in the country, serving the city as well as portions of Henrico and Chesterfield counties. Because it is a municipal provider, rates are set directly by the Richmond City Council rather than state regulators. Commodity gas costs are passed through dollar-for-dollar via a monthly Purchased Gas Cost (PGC) adjustment without retail broker markups. Richmond Gas Works assesses a mandatory fixed monthly service charge (around $18.27 to $21.00) alongside volumetric distribution rates per Ccf (100 cubic feet). Because Richmond winters bring cold snaps and damp freezes, natural gas is heavily relied upon to fire boiler radiators, forced-air furnaces, and domestic water heaters between November and March. While volumetric gas usage drops sharply once spring arrives, the mandatory monthly service charge ensures your statement carries a baseline connection fee year-round, even in July or August when heating appliances sit completely idle.
Top 11 Internet Providers in Richmond
- 2 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 98.82%
- $30.00/mo
- Lock in Your Price for 5 Years
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 91.56%
- $30.00/mo
- Get NFL Sunday Ticket from YouTube
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- None
- 100%
- $55.00/mo
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Great for Renters
- 498 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 100%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 100%
- $40.00/mo
- Wireless Internet
- 150 Mbps
- Satellite
- 150-850 GB
- Phone
- 100%
- $39.99/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
- 7 Gbps
- Cable & Fiber
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 1.86%
- $30.00/mo
- 5 Year Price Lock*
- 1 Gbps
- Cable
- Unlimited
- 39.39%
- $20.00/mo
- 7 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Phone
- Limited%
- $29.99/mo
Getting your internet set up in Richmond is great because you have top-tier fiber and cable competition right across the city. Your best bet for lightning-fast, symmetrical bandwidth is Verizon Fios, which has blanketed most of Richmond with fiber-to-the-home service offering identical upload and download speeds with no data caps. If Fios isn’t available on your block, Xfinity provides reliable hybrid-fiber cable internet across virtually every neighborhood, alongside dependable 5G home internet options from T-Mobile and Verizon. If you’re moving into one of Richmond’s iconic historic neighborhoods — like a rowhouse in The Fan, Museum District, Church Hill, or Jackson Ward — older brick construction, plaster walls, and utility poles located in tight rear alleys mean the installer may need to plan your exterior line drop through a basement or existing conduit. In newer converted tobacco warehouses and lofts in Scott’s Addition, Manchester, or Shockoe Bottom, high-speed fiber or coax is usually pre-wired and ready to activate the day you unpack.
Water & Sewage Providers in Richmond
Water, wastewater collection, and stormwater services are managed by the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities (DPU), which draws raw drinking water directly from the James River and purifies it at the Richmond Water Treatment Plant. Richmond DPU makes account setup streamlined by bundling clean drinking water, sewer processing, stormwater fees, and Richmond Gas Works charges onto a single consolidated monthly DPU statement. Clean water is billed on a metered volumetric tier per Ccf alongside a fixed monthly meter charge (starting around $18.90 for a standard 5/8-inch meter). Wastewater treatment is billed volumetrically at a flat rate of $10.24 per Ccf alongside its own monthly base charge ($24.56). In addition, single-family homes pay a tiered monthly stormwater fee based on their parcel’s impervious square footage (roofs, driveways, patios). Because sewer treatment rates are substantially higher than clean water rates and are billed against 100 percent of your metered water intake without an automatic summer lawn deduction, an undetected running toilet or outdoor hose leak will quickly multiply your monthly city bill.
Top 7 Trash and Recycling Providers in Richmond
Trash and recycling in Richmond are managed through a partnership between the City of Richmond Department of Public Works (DPW) and the Central Virginia Waste Management Authority (CVWMA). Solid waste fees (around $24.75 per month) are billed directly onto your monthly DPU utility statement. Household garbage is collected weekly (Monday through Thursday) in your city-issued green rolling cart, affectionately known across town as the “Supercan”. Curbside recycling is handled by CVWMA and collected every other week in a green cart with a blue lid on the same weekday as your trash, alternating on a Blue Week or Red Week schedule that you can look up on the CVWMA website. Recyclables must go into the cart completely loose, never bag your recycling in plastic grocery sacks, or crews will tag and skip your bin. Richmond DPW also provides curbside bulk and brush collection every other week for tree limbs and furniture, or you can haul large items and junk for free to the East Richmond Road Convenience Center or the Southside Transfer Station with proof of city residency. Just make sure your Supercan and recycling cart are rolled out to your curb or alley line after 4:00 PM the evening before collection or by 7:00 AM on pickup morning.
Utilities Summary for Richmond, VA
| Electric Companies: | 1 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 1 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 7 |
| 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Xfinity | Cable & Fiber | 2 Gbps |
| Verizon Home Internet | Fiber | 5 Gbps |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps |
| 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 |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies |
| Cox | Cable & Fiber | 7 Gbps |
| Breezeline | Cable | 1 Gbps |
| Frontier | Fiber | 7 Gbps |
*Not all speeds available in all areas
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
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Legal limit: 100 ppb
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Legal limit: 60 ppb
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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.
How does the City of Richmond "Supercan" collection work in alleyways?
In historic neighborhoods with rear alleys (such as The Fan, Museum District, or Northside), your green Supercan and recycling cart must be placed directly along the alley easement rather than the front street curb. Carts must be set out after 4:00 PM the day before collection and returned to your property by 7:00 AM the day after pickup to avoid a municipal code citation.
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.
Who runs Richmond Gas Works, and why isn't it an investor-owned company?
Richmond Gas Works is an enterprise division owned and operated directly by the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities. It has served the region for over 170 years and operates under the authority of the Richmond City Council rather than the Virginia State Corporation Commission.