Electricity Rates in Oklahoma and Across the U.S.
Electricity rates are climbing nationwide, and Oklahoma residents are not immune. While Oklahomans currently enjoy some of the lowest average rates in the U.S., bills are expected to keep rising.
A recent Inside Climate News study revealed that by the end of 2025, U.S. utility bills could rise by $38 billion. This comes as demand for electricity grows due to data centers, manufacturing expansion, and higher residential consumption.
Oklahoma’s Electricity Rates Compared to Neighbors
Oklahoma currently ranks as the 13th lowest state for utility costs, according to the study. However, that advantage doesn’t erase frustration among consumers when Oklahoma Gas and Electric (OG&E), Public Service Company of Oklahoma (PSO), or rural cooperatives request new rate hikes from regulators.
By contrast, neighboring Missouri saw the highest increases in the nation — with rates climbing 38.3% in recent years. Other states hit hard included:
-
North Dakota – 33.6%
-
New Jersey – 28.6%
-
Iowa – 27.5%
-
Montana – 25.3%
Why Are Electricity Rates Rising?
Analysts point to data centers as one of the biggest drivers of electricity demand. These facilities often require as much energy as a small city, creating new stress on already aging power grids.
“You’re talking about data centers that need as much electricity as a small city, and we’re just not ready to handle that,” said an attorney at the Environmental Law & Policy Center.
Industry experts argue that without action, the surge in demand could become a crisis for states like Oklahoma.