(The Center Square) – New Jersey residents pay more for electricity than 39 other states, according to 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, “New Jersey has one of the highest electricity costs in the nation. New Jersey relies primarily on natural gas and nuclear generation, with smaller contributions from solar and other sources. As a net importer of electricity, the state depends significantly on regional power markets to meet demand, contributing to higher retail prices.”
According to the report, the state is currently working on legislation that creates strong definitions for “affordable,” “reliable,” and “clean” energy sources. ALEC suggests “establishing clearer statutory priorities around affordability, reliability, and domestic production could help address cost pressures while strengthening long-term grid stability.”
The report says the average retail price in cents per kilowatt-hour is 16.29. Total retail sales in megawatt-hours are 73.5 million.
Natural gas (49%), nuclear (46%), and solar (3%) represent the top generation sources. The state has adopted a 50% renewable portfolio standard by 2030.
