How Much Are Utilities in Clifton, NJ on Average?
In Clifton, New Jersey, the total average monthly residential utility cost is $378 per month ($4,541 annually) for a typical 3-person single-family residence occupying 1,800 square feet. This comprehensive monthly expenditure comprises $187.75 for electricity (priced at $0.185/kWh via PSE&G (Public Service Electric & Gas)), $39.90 for municipal water through Clifton Water & Sewer Dept, $62.25 for natural gas through PSE&G Gas, $53.00 for municipal sewer, and $29.00 for solid waste sanitation. Due to local climate normals (1,816 Cooling Degree Days), peak summer air conditioning increases monthly power bills by 41% over spring baselines.
Seasonal HVAC Impact: Cooling vs. Heating Degree Days
NOAA data records 1,816 Cooling Degree Days (CDD) annually in Clifton. Upgrading insulation and implementing smart HVAC scheduling can save up to $460 annually in peak summer billing cycles.
Measures intensity and duration of outdoor temperatures requiring air conditioning.
Quantifies heating fuel consumption (natural gas therms or heat pump energy).
Clifton, NJ Geographic Utility Coordinates
Official Clifton Utility Rate Schedules (2026)
Published fixed base charges, volumetric consumption blocks, and local service providers.
| Utility Type | Primary Provider | Fixed Monthly Base | Volumetric Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity (Power) |
PSE&G (Public Service Electric & Gas)
(800) 436-7734
|
$12.00/mo | $0.185 / kWh |
| City Water |
Clifton Water & Sewer Dept
(973) 733-4311
|
$16.50/mo |
Tier 1: $3.90 Tier 2: $6.10 / 1k gal |
| Natural Gas |
PSE&G Gas (800) 436-7734
|
$15.00/mo | $1.35 / Therm |
| Sewer Service | Clifton Water & Sewer Dept | $19.00/mo | $6.80 / 1k gal |
| Curbside Trash & Recycle | Municipal Solid Waste Dept | $29.00/mo | Included standard cart |
Moving to Clifton: How to Set Up Utilities
Essential transfer lead times, security deposits, and activation guidelines.
Schedule PSE&G (Public Service Electric & Gas) Power Activation
Schedule power hookup at least 7 business days prior to closing or lease start. Call (800) 436-7734 or enroll online.
Waive Security Deposits with a Utility Letter of Credit
Avoid upfront deposits of $150 – $300 by requesting a 12-month zero-late-payment Letter of Good Standing from your prior provider.
Activate Municipal Water & Solid Waste Services
In Clifton, water, wastewater, drainage, and curbside recycling are billed as a unified municipal statement through Clifton Water & Sewer Dept.
Clifton Rooftop Solar Economics & Net Metering (2026)
With residential electricity in Clifton priced at $0.185/kWh (supplied by PSE&G (Public Service Electric & Gas)), solar installations can eliminate up to 85% of grid power charges while hedging against summer rate increases.
NJ BPU SuSI (Successor Solar Incentive) program + 1:1 net metering credits.
| Financial Component | Estimated Value | Regulatory Source |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Turnkey System Cost (Avg $2.85/W) | $21,090 | NREL Annual Technology Baseline |
| Federal Residential Clean Energy Credit (30% ITC) | -$6,327 | Inflation Reduction Act (IRC § 25D) |
| Net Out-of-Pocket Homeowner Cost | $14,763 | Direct purchase / financed basis |
| First-Year Electric Bill Offset | $1,811 / yr | Clifton electric rate baseline |
| 25-Year Cumulative Net Profit | +$45,920 | Indexed at 2.5% utility escalation |
Frequently Asked Questions in Passaic County
What is the average monthly water bill in Clifton for a family of 3?
For a 3-person household consuming approximately 5,800 to 6,500 gallons per month, the total water and sewer bill in Clifton averages between $75 and $115 per month, including the fixed monthly base meter fee ($16.50) and sewer volume charges.
Why are electric bills in Clifton higher during the summer?
NOAA 1991-2020 climate averages document 1,816 Cooling Degree Days and 4,613 Heating Degree Days annually across Passaic County. In Clifton, peak July air conditioning increases your kWh electric bill by 41% compared to winter baseline.
Is electricity deregulated in Clifton?
Yes, Clifton is in a competitive Texas ERCOT deregulated electricity market. Consumers can shop for competitive fixed rates, 100% renewable solar plans, or time-of-use tariffs.