Report: Pennsylvania 33rd in retail energy price

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(The Center Square) — Pennsylvania, one of the nation’s top natural gas producers, ranks 33rd in the Energy Affordability 2026 report from the American Legislative Exchange Council.

ALEC released its analysis on Wednesday. North Dakota and Louisiana were the leaders in the review of electricity prices and energy affordability indicators as measured for each of the 50 states. The higher the ranking, the cheaper the costs for consumers.

The report uses the most recent information available for consistency; this means electricity price data is from 2024, and gasoline and diesel fuel prices are from 2025.

Additionally for context, the United States and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on Feb. 28, and the prices of fuel have climbed since. Global energy infrastructure has been impacted by the action and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

ALEC says, “Pennsylvania generates the majority of its electricity from natural gas and nuclear, with coal and minor renewables supplementing the mix. As a net exporter, the state produces far more electricity than it consumes, though retail prices remain above the national average. In 2023, Pennsylvania sent 83 million MWH to other states in its regional grid.”

ALEC suggests the commonwealth create “clear statutory priorities focused on affordability, reliability, and domestic production could further enhance long-term energy stability and economic competitiveness.”

The report says the average retail price in cents per kilowatt-hour is 12.51. Total retail sales in megawatt-hours are 142.1 million.

Natural gas (60%), nuclear (31%), coal (5%), wind (1%) and hydroelectric (1%) represent the top generation sources.