If you’ve noticed a higher-than-average electric bill lately, you’re not alone. Luckily, the worst of the Texas heat is over (for now), but with Thanksgiving kicking off the holiday season soon, it’s easy to forget about all the potential extra energy costs.

How are energy costs affected by the holidays?

Holidays bring a number of reasons to use energy. Holiday lighting — both indoor and outdoor — can be a big one. Bumping up the thermostat to stay cozy is another. Big feasts and cookie baking lead to more dishes, which means more hot water … which can run up energy costs. 

As you can see, it’s a case of a little bit here, a little bit there. The kilowatt hours (kWh) add up and could lead to surprise electricity usage amounts when your post-holiday bill comes.

5 tips for keeping energy costs down this Thanksgiving

To make Thanksgiving (and the rest of the holiday season) more energy-efficient, follow these five tips:

Tip #1: Monitor your thermostat

If you’re hosting a Thanksgiving get-together, pay attention to your home’s temperature. What started out as a comfortable setting for your small family may feel hot and stuffy once more people arrive, the food starts cooking, etc. This is an opportunity to lower the thermostat temperature and keep energy costs down.

This tip also applies if you’re going to visit family or friends and will be gone most of the day or overnight. Since there’s no need to heat an empty house, you can lower your thermostat several degrees while you’re gone and save some power.

Tip #2: Use energy-efficient cooking methods

In 2019, Americans used around 347 gigawatts of electricity combined to roast their turkeys this Thanksgiving. (Yep, someone sat down and did the math!) That’s equivalent to the world’s nuclear power capacity in 2012, according to the International Atomic Energy Agency. That surely racked up quite the electricity cost. We can assume 2022 will bring similar usage.

Okay, so most people have no other option but the oven for preparing a whole turkey. One way to save energy is to cook other dishes simultaneously with the turkey. But you can also shave off some energy costs over the holiday by using energy-efficient appliances to prepare other foods.

Here are examples of estimated electricity usage by appliance type, in kilowatts (kW). (Appliances vary. Check the wattage on your appliance to find exact figures. Note: 1000 Watts = 1 kW)

• Crockpot: .16 kW per hour
• Pressure cooker: .7 kW per hour
• Microwave: 1.0 kW per hour
• Air fryer: 1.5 kW per hour
• Electric stovetop (8” element): 2.1 kW per hour
• Electric oven: 2.15 kW per hour

As you can see, the oven and stovetop use the most energy. Crockpots and pressure cookers are both convenient options that also consume little electricity.

If you need a little inspiration, try these Thanksgiving recipes for pressure cookers and slow cookers.

Tip #3: Enjoy your evening by firelight

Doesn’t the thought of friends and family gathering around a crackling, warm fire sound lovely? Try turning off the lights, lowering the thermostat a degree or two, and serving Thanksgiving dessert by the fireplace. Sure, one night of this may not make a huge dent in your energy costs. But if it becomes a regular practice, the savings can start adding up.

Don’t have a fireplace? Try a candle-lit evening instead.

Tip #4: Let leftovers cool on the counter

Don’t rush to put all those delicious Thanksgiving leftovers in the fridge. Let them cool down to room temperature (or as close as is safe for the food). This prevents the food from releasing heat in the refrigerator and causing the appliance to work harder. 

Check out more helpful fridge temperature tips from energy.gov to keep energy costs down here.

Tip #5: Put your dishwasher to work

Here’s an amazing fact: 61% of Americans argue over whether dishes should be pre-rinsed before being put in the dishwasher. 

Let us save you at least one argument this Thanksgiving. Go ahead and scrape large pieces of food into the trash or disposal. But don’t pre-rinse. Dishwashers and dish detergents are built to tackle these types of messes efficiently. And you’ll conserve some hot water and energy by only hand-washing non-dishwasher-safe and bulky items. 

Just make sure you have a full (but not crammed) load of dishes before you press ‘Start.’ This will get the most efficient wash and minimize energy costs.

Shop electricity plans for more ways to tame energy costs

Before you fill up on turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie next week, head over to Everything Energy. You can shop and compare electricity plans and energy prices with ease. That way, you can check that off your holiday to-do list before the holidays even begin.

Heading into winter, you may be thinking about your Texas energy rates. Specifically, your monthly bills for the cooler months may leave you wondering how you can use less electricity after another sizzling summer. But Texas power companies have your back with an abundance of tips, tricks and suggestions on how to make this winter an energy efficient one at home.

Texas power companies share their top tips for conserving energy

Check out the sage advice from five electric companies in Texas that know a thing or two about conserving energy.

Green Mountain Energy

To support its mission to change the way power is made, Green Mountain Energy is one of the Texas power companies you can count on for 100% clean, renewable energy. To cut down on electricity usage, they recommend that you:

• Wait for a full load. Run the dishwasher only when you have a full load of dishes to wash. This will save water and energy. Also, let them air dry instead of using the heat cycle.
• Stock your fridge. A full fridge — and freezer — can actually help your appliance be more efficient. That’s because the contents of a full refrigerator or freezer help contain the cold, so the unit won’t have to work as hard to cool the empty space.
  • Unplug electronics not in use. Taking the plug out of the wall will help minimize energy waste while a device is in standby mode (also called phantom load). 
  • Be an energy star. If you’re in the market for a new appliance, check out efficient models that have the ENERGY STAR® certification. 

Discount Power TX

In contrast to many Texas power companies that offer lots of extras and plan add-ons, Discount Power is a back-to-basics electricity provider in the Lone Star State. They have budget-friendly pricing and plans that fit every family’s needs. To stay warm on a budget this winter, the folks at Discount Power suggest:

Use extra blankets. Don’t let cozy blankets go to waste in the closet. Put them to good use for some free warmth. Adding a blanket or two during the day or at night will let you comfortably turn down the thermostat a few degrees and save energy.

Insulate the access door. Even if your attic is well-insulated, the access door may not be. Keep rising warm air from leaking into the attic by attaching fiberglass batt insulation to the attic side of the door. This will form a good seal.

Let vents breathe. To heat your home properly and efficiently, make sure nothing is blocking the heating vents. Rearrange the furniture in each room so it doesn’t prevent airflow from the registers. And keep toys, laundry and other items from blocking the vents.

Lower your water heater temperature. Water heaters are often set to 140 degrees. However, setting them between 120 and 125 degrees is sufficient to provide hot water for your home, helping to reduce energy costs. It can also prevent scalding.

Direct Energy

Direct Energy is one of the Texas power companies that gives customers innovative tools and information to help them take control of their energy usage. Here are some of their take-charge tips:

• Dress strategically. Layering with clothing made from natural fibers will help you stay truly warm. Cotton, wool and silk are all materials that breathe, but keep in the warmth. 
  
• Get an HVAC tune-up. Annual maintenance of your heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems can help increase efficiency. 
  

Close garage doors. Keep your garage door closed as much as possible. This helps retain warmer air against the garage-side wall of the house. It will also function as a buffer against colder outside air. 

Cirro Energy

With Cirro Energy, you get an easy electricity experience. Everything from signup to bill paying is simplified, so you can get back to more important things. Some easy actions they suggest include:

• Enjoy the sunshine. Even in winter, the sun is still a natural (and free!) source of energy. Open up your shades and curtains on your south-facing windows during the day to let heat in. (But close them at night to reduce any chill from cold windows.)
• Switch to a smart thermostat. Most Texas power companies agree that a smart thermostat is an excellent energy-saving device. In addition to being programmable, a smart thermostat also learns your habits and preferences over time. That way, it can adjust automatically. Plus, you can control it from your smartphone. That means you can avoid heating or cooling an empty house if you’re out longer than expected.
• Seal the flue. When you’re not using your fireplace, make sure to close the flue to keep chilly air from seeping into your home.
• Clean dryer lint filters. Remove lint from the filter after every load of laundry, and clean dryer ducts annually to help your clothes dryer run more efficiently.

Reliant Energy

Counted on by residents across the state, Reliant Energy provides innovative ways to personalize your power and take control of energy efficiency. They suggest:

• Cover your hot water heater. Older water heaters, or those with an R-value of less than 24, could benefit from a water heater “jacket.” The additional insulation can help minimize expensive heat loss. Note: R-value is a measure of the resistance of an insulating or building material to heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the insulating capability.

• Get alerted. Reliant is one of the Texas power companies that offers text alerts when your costs exceed a set amount. This benefit reminds you to be more energy efficient so you can try to stick to your budget. 

• Be patient with your thermostat. As tempting as it is to crank your thermostat up 10 degrees to warm the house up quickly, don’t do it. Not only will it not heat things up faster, but it makes your heater exert more energy. (Also, frequently changing the temperature by a few degrees causes the heater to go into a costly and inefficient start-stop cycle.)
  
• Weatherstrip. Seal any cracks or air leaks in exterior doors and windows to keep cold air outside.

Find the best Texas power companies for your home and budget

Now that you’ve explored some energy-saving tips from Texas power companies, it’s time to save more energy! Shop and compare plans the easy way  —with our personalized filters and average bill estimates. Start shopping today!

In times like these, even the cheapest electricity rates can add up. Luckily, we’re living in the age of advanced technology. By making your home “smarter,” you can better take control of your energy usage. And whether you’re dipping your toe into home automation or creating a total “smart home,” smart plugs are a cheap energy device that can help you conserve electricity use — and do so much more.

What is a smart plug?

A smart plug is a small piece of equipment that you plug into an electrical outlet. You then plug your electrical item into the smart plug. Using your home’s Wi-Fi connection, it gives you the ability to throttle power on and off, even when you’re not physically there. 

For example, say you want to install a smart plug on a living room lamp. Simply insert the smart plug into the outlet. Then, plug the lamp into the holes on the smart plug and you’re ready to go. Yep, it’s that easy!

The main benefits of smart plugs are greater control over energy usage, potential energy savings and convenience.

How do smart plugs work as a cheap energy device to control electricity usage?

Smart plugs connect to your home Wi-Fi. You can then control them remotely via an app or by voice command. You can even set up a schedule for each plug. 

The smart plugs you purchase will come with instructions that tell you exactly which app(s) can be used to control it and how to set it up. If you already have home automation equipment, it’s best to make sure the smart plug(s) you purchase are compatible with the app(s) you currently use. 

Perhaps this sounds daunting if you’re new to home automation. However, using a smart plug offers great convenience. Plus, these small, cheap energy devices give you control over how you use electricity.

And best of all, you don’t need to worry about tools, electrical wiring or complex installation tasks. 

What happens if my Wi-Fi goes out?

If your internet cuts out, your smart plug won’t be able to respond to your voice commands or any adjustments you make in the app. However, there should be a button on the side of most smart plugs. Pressing this button keeps items operational even without Wi-Fi. 

If you’re on vacation or otherwise have an important task scheduled for one or more of your smart plugs while you’re away, you may worry that your Wi-Fi will let you down. To know for sure, many internet providers let you monitor your home Wi-Fi status and reset your connection remotely via an app.

How much do these cheap energy devices cost?

Pricing depends on the brand and type of smart plug you choose. You can usually find high-quality, single plugs for less than $10 online or in retail stores. Packs with two or four of the devices can net you a better price per plug.

How can I use smart plugs around my home as a cheap energy control option?

• Device charging

Laptops and cell phones charge faster these days than they did a decade ago. Plus, some devices can actually overcharge (damaging the battery) or overheat (creating a fire hazard). And there’s always sneaky phantom load to contend with — using energy unnecessarily when a device is in standby mode. So, charging your laptop or smartphone overnight or for extended periods of time is not efficient. A smart plug can be used and automatically shut off after a set amount of time.

• Crockpot scheduling

Many Crockpots do not include the option to turn on or off at pre-set times. For those appliances, a smart plug can be used to start or stop the cooking when needed.

• Coffee brewing

Likewise, a smart plug can transform a non-programmable coffee maker. By scheduling your machine to start brewing when your alarm goes off, you’ll always wake up to a hot cup of Joe.

• Lamp operating

We all have that one lamp that always seems to be left on for way too long. Attached to a smart plug, that lamp is now under your control. Schedule it to turn on to comfort pets at night, to deter intruders when traveling or even to help get you out of bed. Then, turn it off remotely via your smartphone, or set up an automatic shut-off time.

• Holiday lighting

Strands of lights make for a festive atmosphere. But they also consume electricity. Smart plugs, like traditional light programmers, allow you to put your lights on a schedule. But you also gain the ability to turn them on or off from your smartphone.

• Cheap energy peace of mind

Are you the type to leave for vacation without turning off the curling (or regular) iron? A smart plug will save the day. Instead of being consumed by worry, you can simply turn off the smart plug from your phone. 

How many smart plugs do I need for my home?

The choice of how many smart plugs to own is yours! There’s no “correct” number. Some people like to start with one and see how they like it. Others love the convenience of on-the-go control so much that they use smart plugs all over their home.

No matter how “smart” you decide to make your home with these handy, cheap energy devices, know that you’re not alone. In 2021, the smart plug market was valued at $5.29 billion. But it is expected to balloon to $99.84 billion by 2030 according to a recent market report by The Brainy Insights. 

It looks like the smart plug is here to stay!

Will I see a return on my investment using this cheap energy efficiency solution?

While smart plugs are a cheap energy device, they do still represent a small investment. In some cases, they could eventually save you money by helping you use electronics less frequently and only when needed. 

Some scenarios will probably not net you large energy and monetary savings. For instance, using a smart plug for a coffee maker or lamp will provide added convenience (and peace of mind during travel). But these items consume such a small amount of energy that it could take a while to see a return on your investment (ROI). 

However, in other scenarios, a smart plug could start paying for itself quickly. Try using your smart plug with an item that:

• Is turned on many hours a day when it doesn’t need to be; 
• Doesn’t have an internal automatic shut-off mechanism; and
• Uses more than a trivial amount of kilowatt hours when active

In short, to see an ROI, you should be strategic in your smart plug use. 

Find cheap electricity plans for your smart home

How do you decide on an electricity provider or plan with so many available in Texas? Turn to Everything Energy. With tools that quickly narrow down options based on your lifestyle and preferences, it’s easy to make the right choice — from cheap energy and price security to extra perks, clean energy and more. Start your search today!

Many of the electronics in your home are adding to your electric costs — even when they’re not in use! “Phantom load” refers to the power used by electronic devices when in standby mode. It’s also called “vampire power.” 

How much does phantom load add to your electric costs?

Nobody knows for sure what percentage of electricity usage phantom load represents. Thus, it’s hard to say how much it adds to your average electric bill. However, the Standby Power Research at Berkeley Lab estimates that phantom load amounts to 5-10% of residential electricity usage. (Some estimates are even higher.) This may not seem like a lot on first glance. But reducing vampire power can help you drive down your monthly electric costs. 

Plus, it’s not just about our own waste. The National Resources Defense Council estimates that standby power use by inactive devices translates to the electricity produced from 50 large (500-megawatt) power plants. If we all reduced our own phantom load, even by a small amount, it would add up to a significant decrease of wasted power. And that’s great news for the planet’s health.

How do I know how much phantom load an item is using?

Some appliances and electronics use more standby power than others. You can use a watt meter to measure the amount of power an item uses in standby and working modes. (Some libraries even have these handy devices available for free checkout!)

If you know your electricity cost per kWh (kilowatt hour), you can use the watt meter reading to calculate how much you pay to run the device or appliance in both modes.

What are some ways to minimize vampire power?

To work toward your best electricity bill and minimize energy waste, try these solutions:

Unplug

Maybe it’s not realistic to unplug all of your electronics when you’re not using them. But you could make it a habit to unplug a few to help lower your electric costs. Remember, every little bit helps both your monthly average electric bill and the planet. 

Items you can unplug when not in use include:

• DVD player
• Speakers
• Battery charger
• Coffee pot
• Rice cooker/pressure cooker/air fryer
• Computer
• Scanner
• Printer
• Heated blanket
• Infrequently used TVs
• Remote-controlled toys
• Dehumidifier
• Air purifier
• Standing fans
• Digital photo frames
• Lamps
• Vacuum
• Phone and device chargers
• Electric toothbrushes, razors and water flossers

Reorganize

Use a surge protector power strip with an on/off switch for several electronics in an area. With one flip of the switch, all of the plugged-in items can be completely powered off while still remaining plugged into the power strip — with no standby energy consumed. To do this, you may need to reorganize the placement of some of your items that use standby power. However, it is a straightforward way to reduce phantom load and extra electric costs.

Wi-Fi smart power strips and smart plugs provide even more convenience as you combat energy prices. Some of these power strips can detect when plugged in items are not in use and stop sending electricity to them. Many let you control each plugged-in item individually with your mobile device or through voice command through Alexa or Google Assistant. 

How do I compare electricity rates to help ease my monthly electric costs?

Minimizing vampire power is just one trick you can use to help lower your monthly electric costs. Another is to compare electricity cost per kWh and other factors before you choose your next electricity plan. 

Everything Energy has the tools you need to make apples-to-apples comparisons with ease. That way, you can be confident you have the best energy plan for your needs. Try our personalized pricing search tool now!

Maximizing the value you get from your power supplier is financially smart. After all, if you’re already paying for something, why wouldn’t you take advantage of it?

Today’s electricity providers offer more than just electricity. Take a look at some of the extra benefits you may not know you have access to.

What perks would a power supplier offer?

Texas has a deregulated energy market. That means a power supplier must now compete to earn your business. To do so, they need to stand out from the crowd. So, electricity providers often give customers extras that could be of value.

Here are just a few things you may be missing out on:

Apps

Many power companies have mobile apps. And they do far more than just let you pay your bill. They can also save you time, display your usage, and help you become more energy efficient.

Referral rewards

Does your power supplier have a referral program? If so, you could receive bill credits just for helping friends and family sign up. Reliant Energy is one power company with this type of reward program.

Other bill credits and discounts

Some electricity providers offer bill credits for opting into paperless billing, autopay, energy conservation programs and other services or programs.

Energy efficient gadgets

You may be able to receive a discount on energy-efficient tools from smart thermostats to backup power solutions and more. Some gadgets even come free when you enroll in a specific energy plan.

Sustainability opportunities

From solar assessments to carbon offsets, green energy suppliers may provide valuable ways to help you live greener.

Solar rebates

You may be a customer of a power supplier that offers third-party solar panel installation. Check to see if the provider offers any exclusive rebates. Some do, in addition to any federal and local solar incentives.

How do I find out if my power supplier offers these extra benefits?

Where can you find these benefits? Look over your provider’s website. Check the navigation menu for links to products, services and offers. You may have missed these benefits when you first enrolled.

Discover more extras by shopping for your next power supplier.

If you’re in the market for a new power company or plan, don’t just go with the cheapest energy supplier. You could be missing out on valuable perks from other providers. 

Try Everything Energy — the one-stop power supplier shop.

To start your home electricity search, use our advanced tools to shop and compare energy plans. It’s the easiest way to find the best electricity provider for your lifestyle!

With so many options to choose from, you may find yourself wondering– How do I find the best electricity company for my home/family/life?

That’s a good thing! It’s a question that everyone should ask themselves before enrolling in an energy plan. To answer that question, take some time for self-reflection. This article will help you navigate your options so you can find the perfect fit for you.

Is the best electricity company the one with the best electricity rates?

Some people may find a cheap electric company or plan and consider their search complete. However, the rate per kilowatt hour (kWh) is just the starting point. You have to look closely at how a plan will work with your lifestyle. (Always read the fine print. That low rate could end up being one of the most expensive options for you.)

Like most decisions, there are several factors to consider before you make up your mind. Plus, families, homes and lifestyles vary widely. To get the most value out of your electricity plan, you will want to find the one fits your unique situation the best.

How do I find the best electricity company for my family?

The best electricity company for your family is that one that gives you the most value. A lot of that value comes from the rate, of course. But some electric providers offer more. That could come in the form of gift cards, flexible terms, eco-friendly gadgets, airline miles, top-notch customer service, free nights or weekends, account management tools, renewable energy, etc. 

It’s up to you to weigh the pricing and benefits of plans. Then you can come to the conclusion that you’ve found the best electricity provider and plan for your family.

What lifestyle factors could impact my choice of energy supplier?

Every household is unique, from family and home size to electricity usage habits to tech savvy and more. Here are some factors to consider that could impact your decision about which is the best electricity company for you:

Your schedule

Do you work a typical 9-to-5 shift? Do you work from home? Do you travel on weekends? Are you a homebody? A night owl? 

Your schedule can greatly affect the value you get from an energy provider. Time-of-use plans offer lower electricity rates when energy demand is lower, like nights or weekends. If you shift your heaviest usage to these timeframes, you could take advantage of this and have greater control over your electric bill.

Your home size

Do you live in a studio apartment, or a 4-bedroom house? Do you have vaulted ceilings that take a lot of energy to cool/heat? Home size plays a large part in how much electricity you use. And that, of course, can affect your overall energy cost. That’s why you should consider this factor when searching for the best electricity company for your needs. 

Your typical usage

While home size plays a part in how much energy you use, it doesn’t tell the whole story. A swimming pool, second refrigerator, 24/7 air conditioning in the summer … usage can vary widely from one household to another.

To find your average monthly usage, check your recent electricity bills. Do you use 500 kWh? 1000 kWh? 2000 kWh? 

The reason this is important is because it could affect the price per kWh you see listed online. Some plans offer a lower average price per kWh for using more than 2000 kWh. That means if you only use around 500 kWh per month, that “great rate” may not apply to your situation.

In contrast, some plans are tailored for low-usage customers. In this case, someone using less than a certain amount of kWh may get a better rate than a higher-usage customer.

Either way, you can find the price breakdown of each Texas energy plan on its Electricity Facts Label (EFL).

Your budget

Cost is definitely a factor for most. But that doesn’t automatically mean choosing the cheapest energy supplieror plan. However, having a specific budget for home electricity can help you narrow down your options.

For a personalized average monthly bill estimate using your actual Smart Meter data, head over to Everything Energy. 

Your commitment level

Do you like the flexibility of being able to switch energy providers whenever you want? If so, the best electricity company for your life may be one that offers a month-to-month plan with no cancellation fee.

But perhaps you’d like to lock in a rate and not have to shop for electricity often. If so, a provider with 12-month term (or longer) plans may be the way to go.

Your sustainability goals

If you’re a supporter of sustainability, the best energy company for your values could be one that offers renewable energy plans. It’s now possible to power your home with electricity generated from wind or solar. 

To find out the renewable content of any plan, simply check its EFL.

Your other home needs

Do you have an electric vehicle you need to power? Are you looking for an energy company that can also offer home security monitoring? Do your solar panels generate excess electricity that you’d like to “sell back” to the grid? Your best electricity company may be one that has a solution for your home’s unique needs.

Your energy interest level

If you want to be more in control of your electricity usage or know how much power you use in certain situations, some energy companies can help more than others. Apps, access to your Smart Meter data and online account management features can give you the energy experience you’re looking for.

Your tech savviness

Everyone has a different comfort level with technology. Some electricity providers keep it simple while others offer a lot of bells and whistles. Your preferences can help guide you to the best electricity company for your tech savviness.

What else should I look for in an energy provider?

You should have confidence in an energy provider before enrolling. To find electricity companies in Texas you can trust, do a bit of research. Look at things like reputation, ease of enrollment, complaint scorecard and customer service reliability. Also check how long a provider has been in business. (You can see each provider’s “date certificated” by the Public Utility Commission of Texas here.)

If you’re happy with what you find, you will know you’re in good hands.

How do I begin my search for the best electricity company for my needs?

In today’s high-tech world, you don’t have to start your energy search from square one. Everything Energy is a convenient search tool to use. Simply input your usage information and preferences. You’ll see electricity companies and plans that match your criteria. Then you can do a side-by-side comparison to help you zero in on what you’re looking for.

How can I be sure I’m choosing the best energy company for me?

If you use Everything Energy, you can be confident in the energy company you choose. We only show you trusted electricity providers with solid reputations.

As for choosing the best electricity provider for your life? If you’ve given the information above some thought, you will be on the right path to making a good decision.

Once I find the best electricity provider for my lifestyle, can I switch right away?

You may be excited for your new electricity provider and plan, but don’t rush. Check your current electricity contract’s terms and conditions. It will tell you when you can switch without an early cancellation fee. Once you’re within the stated timeframe, you can make the change without penalty.

Will the best electricity provider for my needs change over time?

Life isn’t static. The sizes of our homes and families change over time. For that reason, the best electricity provider for your needs today may not hold that title in five years. Luckily, you can always shop for electricity if and when your needs change. That’s the beauty of having the power to choose in Texas.

Are you ready to start your energy search?

Once you have thought about your lifestyle and what you need in an energy plan, it’s time to shop and compare electricity rates and providers. You’ll find many options to choose from. And we’re confident you will find the one that’s just right for you!

When searching for electricity providers, you may feel overwhelmed. There are many to choose from. However, keep an eye out for those that offer you added value. This value can come in many forms. And what one person may find valuable could be unimportant to another. That’s why, when choosing home electricity, you should look at the whole picture — not just price per kilowatt hour. 

Here are five tried-and-true electric suppliers in Texas that go the extra mile to deliver value as well as electricity.

Reliant Energy — electricity providers of power your way

Reliant Energy is well-known across Texas. But some people may not know that Reliant offers much more than just electricity. 

Reliant helps customers monitor and manage their electricity usage with many innovative tools and gadgets. It’s also one of the electricity providers in Texas that has time-of-use plan options. These plans offer lower prices on energy used at certain times of the day, such as nights or weekends. (These off-peak hours help relieve strain on the electricity grid.) Time-of-use plans can help you take control of your usage and operate appliances at the most affordable times.

In addition to electricity, Reliant offers home security packages, automation products and HVAC services and protection options.

Cirro Energy — energy providers of easy electricity 

Some customers don’t really want to spend much time on their home energy. That’s why Cirro Energy simplifies the whole energy experience for consumers. With Cirro Energy, you get convenience with no surprises. That means:

• Simple plan options
• Transparent pricing
• Helpful Customer Care Agents
• Stress-free enrolling
• Easy-to-understand bills
• Hassle-free payment options

Green Mountain Energy — electricity providers of 100% clean energy

Some electricity providers help you live greener. For example, all Green Mountain Energy plans are made from 100% renewable resources — the wind and/or the sun. The company focuses on sustainability and empowering every person to make a positive impact on the planet. Choosing clean energy to power your home is one simple way to make a difference. 

Green Mountain Energy also offers energy efficiency and green living tips. There is even an option to purchase carbon offsets. 

Direct Energy — electricity providers that give you control of your home energy

Direct Energy empowers customers with its Direct Your Energy tool. It uses your Smart Home usage to build a home profile. Then, it provides estimates of how much energy key home systems and appliances use. 

Knowing where your energy is going can help you conserve resources. It can also let you know when you have an inefficient appliance. These insights help you make smarter, more informed choices about your electricity usage.

The Direct Your Energy tool includes:

• Usage dashboard
• Energy insights chart
• Heat map calendar
• Dynamic usage graphs
• Home comparison tool
• Usage anomaly alerts
• Predictive weather overlay

Discount Power — the budget-friendly energy suppliers

Discount Power takes a no-frills approach to power. Paring back the “extras” that other electricity providers offer lets Discount Power provide budget-friendly options for families across the state. 

And even though no single Texas electricity provider can be called the cheapest energy supplier, Discount Power is a good bet if you’re searching for an affordable plan.

More benefits from Texas electricity providers

There’s even more to discover from these power companies. Some other perks you may come across from electricity providers include:

• Airline miles 
• Gift cards
• Bill credits
• Innovative apps
• Eco-gadgets for on-the-go power or energy efficiency
• Additional tools to monitor and manage your usage
• Plans designed for electric vehicle owners
• Solar buyback programs for those with solar panels on their home
• Referral rewards
• Neighborhood comparison emails
• And more!

Search electric suppliers in your area

The five electricity providers listed above all offer something that you might find interesting or want to make the most of. To find the best energy provider and plan for your lifestyle, head over to Everything Energy’s powerful search, sort and compare tool. You can see plan pricing, average bill estimates, extra perks offered and more. Best of all, it’s free to use! Simply click here to start shopping.

Today’s Texas energy companies don’t just provide electricity. They also offer some amazing ways for you and your family to become more eco-friendly. And they make it pretty easy too! 

Here are four ways that Texas electric companies — and Texas power itself — have become more planet-focused in recent years.

Paperless billing & Texas energy companies

Also called e-billing, paperless billing removes the need for printed bills. Instead, customers receive bills  online. This reduces paper waste. Customers can then access and pay their bills via email, mobile or web portal. It’s quick and only takes a few clicks.

It’s not a new practice, but paperless billing is an easy way for consumers and Texas energy companies alike to reduce their carbon footprints. This is one small step toward overcoming the problem of paper waste. 

Customers also seem to prefer paperless billing. Fiserv’s Eighth Annual Billing Household Survey shows that 53% of people are interested or very interested in switching their paper bills to e-bills. Only 22% said they’re not interested in that change at all. 

Additionally, Invoice Cloud reports that the top four preferred payment channels are:

• Online portal – 43%
• Mobile device – 35%
• Mailing a check – 6%
• Paying by phone – 5%

It’s clear that in addition to being eco-friendly, paperless billing is also becoming the preferred way to pay bills.

Most Texas energy companies, including Direct Energy and Cirro Energy, offer the option to go paperless. 

Renewable energy & Texas energy companies

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Texas produced about 26% of the nation’s wind-powered electricity generation in 2021. That led the nation for the 16^th year in a row. 

That year, the Lone Star State also led the nation in two other ways. According to CleanPower.org, Texas topped the U.S. in total new clean energy projects and clean power projects under development. 

It’s easy to see the state has a large capacity for clean energy production. That means more Texas energy companies can include wind and solar power in their plan offerings.

How much of a difference can be made by choosing renewables? Green Mountain Energy, based in Houston, has been providing 100% clean energy for more than two decades. To date, its customers have avoided more than 104.1 billion pounds of carbon dioxide emissions. That’s the same as planting over 12.4 million new trees!

Other companies also offer energy made wholly or partially from solar and/or wind. When shopping for electricity, check the Electricity Facts Label. There, you can view each plan’s renewable content.

Green project support & Texas energy companies

Texas electric providers support many charitable efforts. This includes green projects. By donating to non-profits and other groups focused on sustainability, these providers help create a brighter future.

Reliant Energy is one of the Texas energy companies leading the charge. With help from customer contributions, it has raised over $2 million for EarthShare of Texas. This organization over 30 of the state’s most respected environmental organizations. Reliant has also supported organizations like the Texas State Aquarium, the Dallas Zoo and the Galveston Bay Foundation.

Efforts to enhance energy efficiency

Did you know that Texas energy companies want to help consumers conserve electricity? After all, the electricity grid can only handle so much. Keeping resource usage under control benefits everyone. It’s also helpful to the planet.

Many Texas electric companies provide consumers with ways to become more energy efficient. Doing so can also result in budget-friendly bills, which is something Discount Power aims to provide its customers. 

To help you be more efficient, some providers include smart-home tools and solar-powered gadgets that minimize electricity waste. Others offer time-of-use plans. These plans provide lower prices during off-peak hours. This encourages customers to change their habits to help ease demand on the grid. That’s a win for us all. 

Discover Texas energy companies doing good for the planet

As you shop for electricity, notice what types of eco-friendly measures each Texas power company takes. Being eco-friendly benefits the environment. Also, it could positively impact your bill. So check out the options available to you, and start your search today.

Have you ever wondered how Texas energy providers actually power your home? Everything Energy is here with all the info! 

Deregulation and Texas energy providers

The first thing you should know is that most of Texas’ energy sectors have been de-regulated. For a long time, utilities had a monopoly on the state’s power supply chain. This included generation, transmission, distribution, metering and billing. But this all changed in 2002 with deregulation. 

Now, one entity does not control the entire supply chain. Instead, there are three main groups involved in getting power to your home: 

1. Power generation facilities
2. Retail Electricity Providers (REPs) (also known as Texas energy providers)
3. Transmission/Distribution Utilities (TDUs) [You may also hear these referred to as Transmission/Distribution Service Providers (TDSPs).]

Power generation facilities

The electricity Texas uses originates at generating facilities. The three major groups of energy sources are fossil fuels, nuclear energy and renewable energy.

REPs

The part of deregulation that most directly affects consumers is REP choice. We have the power to choose Texas retail electricity providers that meet our needs. These providers offer many rates, benefits and options to choose from.

REPs buy electricity at wholesale prices from generation facilities. Then, they resell it to consumers. They also send you your electricity bill. 

REPs compete with each other to earn your business.

TDUs & TDSPs

TDUs (or TDSPs) are the companies that actually deliver electricity to your home. They operate and maintain the poles, wires and meters.

So, who do I call during a power outage? My utility, or my Texas power company?

On first though, you may think you should report a power outage to the company that sends you your electricity bill. But Texas energy providers don’t handle this issue. Remember, the utility company maintains the poles and wires. If you call your REP, they will tell you to reach out to your TDU. So, it’s a good idea to know how to contact your utility if your power goes out.

Certain utilities serve different areas of Texas. Unlike your REP, you are assigned a utility based on your address. 

Texas has five utility companies:

• CenterPoint Energy
• Oncor Electric Delivery
• AEP Texas North
• AEP Texas Central
• Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP)

(For information on outages in your area, simply click on your utility above.)

Why does choice of Texas energy providers matter?

Energy deregulation helps consumers. It takes away the monopoly of utilities. It also forces REPs to offer the most competitive prices. And, partly due to the intense competition among REPs, it forces them to provide better, more customized services to meet people’s unique lifestyles. They are all aiming to be among the best electricity companies in Texas.

Additionally, choice of Texas energy providers matters because it gets you gives you a voice. You can weigh in on the clean energy conversation. For example, some Texas energy companies offer electricity plans with 100% renewable content, from sources like the wind and sun. Other companies offer partial renewable content, while some plans contain a minimal amount of clean energy. Plan choice reflects consumer preferences, affecting the energy sources used by generation facilities.

consumer preferences, affecting the energy sources used by generation facilities.

How do I know which of the Texas energy providers to choose?

Shopping for an REP to power your home used to be complicated and confusing. Now, with innovative tools from Everything Energy that help you narrow down your options, it’s easy to find the plan and Texas power company that best fit your lifestyle and budget. 

Start your search today here.

If you want to learn more about energy, you’re in luck. There are many sources out there for every age, level of interest and schedule. From TX power companies that power homes across the state to in-person workshops, webinars, podcasts and videos, you have many learning paths. Let’s take a look at just a small sampling of what’s available. 

Note: This post contains links to a variety of external resources such as reports, podcasts, videos and books. They are intended for informational purposes only. Everything Energy and its affiliates do not earn commission from purchases made through links to these resources. Any views or opinions expressed in these resources do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Everything Energy and its affiliates.

TX power companies’ resources

For info about electricity, wind and solar panels, energy efficiency and more, go straight to the source. Check out websites from reputable TX power companies. Many electric providers in Texas provide free and helpful resources to educate consumers. 

For example, Reliant Energy has robust web pages on saving energy at home, backup power and even home security and automation. 

Meanwhile, Green Mountain Energy offers deep dives into clean energy and how you can have a greener impact on the planet. For ways to save, Cirro Energy has a section with simplified tips.

Also, Discount Power TX has a helpful emergency storm resource center. And, Direct Energy has an entire energy-related learning center with tips on home improvement, weather preparedness and moving.

As you can see, there’s a wealth of knowledge out there. But although these Texas electricity companies have a lot of great info, they’re just the beginning.

Education beyond TX power companies

Have you checked out the info from TX power companies and still want to learn more? These resources will give you added insight into the energy industry and Texas power.

Reports

• Houston: Leading the Energy Transition explains the strategy and vision for the future of the Energy Capital of the World.
• The U.S. Energy Information Administration’s Annual Energy Outlook presents the outlook for energy markets through 2050.

• Energy Use in Homes shows how the electricity consumption in U.S. households varies across regions and housing types.

Podcasts

• With 146 episodes and counting, the Energy Cast podcast covers just about any energy topic you can imagine.
• Texas Energy Grid, Resilience, Fragility, and Why We Need an All-of-the-Above Energy Strategy is a podcast episode from the Institution for Policy Innovation (IPI). Experts talk about the present and future of the state’s electricity grid.
• Jump into Houston podcast The Green Insider. It offers interviews with industry insiders who are leading the clean energy transition.

Videos & Documentaries

• Switch On is a recent documentary that explores energy across the developing world.
• Power Trip: The Story of Energy is a six-part PBS series that uncovers the hidden energy behind modern life. Episodes cover water and food to cities and transportation to wealth and war.
• At 36 minutes, The Power Reset gives a quick peek at how one Bavarian community has made a complete shift to clean energy.

Books

• Empires of Light: Edison, Tesla, Westinghouse, and the Race to Electrify the World dives into the history of electricity. Learn about the three visionaries who fought to change the world.
• In Electrify: An Optimist’s Playbook for Our Clean Energy Future, author Saul Griffith shows what a realistic energy future looks like.

Local events and classes

Now that you’ve checked out TX power companies and other types of resources, what’s next? Maybe a group or in-person energy-related event in your community would be interesting. With a little searching, you can probably find one! Try checking events calendars from your local:

• City government
• Libraries
• Community centers

Local community colleges may also offer unique continuing education courses. Topics could range from renewable energy and electric vehicles to home energy audits and energy conservation.

Also, you may find larger events, expos, webinars and conventions in your region. Here are a couple coming up that you may be interested in.

Houston

September 25, 2022
6-7pm Central

Join Texas Southern University’s Professor Hyun-Min Hwang for an online discussion, How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint. You can register for the free event here.

Austin

November 11-13, 2022
Times vary

Austin is the final stop of the multi-city Electrify Expo. This weekend festival offers fun for all ages. You can ride, drive and demo the world’s top electric vehicles, e-skateboards, e-bikes and more. Learn more and purchase tickets here. 

Discover TX power companies in your area

You’ve sampled some of the many ways you can learn more about electricity. Now it’s time to actually get some! Shop and compare energy rates in your area from trusted TX power companies. With Everything Energy’s online tools, you’re just a few clicks away from your perfect energy match.