Picking an energy company in Texas to power your home can feel like a big task. There’s something for everyone. Yet not everything is a good fit for you.

That’s why you should go into your search knowing what you want. Then, it’s a lot easier and faster to make a choice. So, finding the right energy company for you means first deciding what you’re looking for.

What’s most important to you (and your family)? Sure, price is a factor. But it’s the value you get from the energy company that really matters. Take a look at some common factors involved in choosing from the many electricity providers in Texas.

What is important in an energy company?

Electricity companies all supply power to your home. But that may be where the similarities end. Each one actually offers something unique. To find the energy company that best fits your needs, consider the seven factors below.

Flexibility

Electricity plan term lengths can vary widely. This may be important to your final decision. You might want to lock in a price for a year or more. Or you may like the freedom that a month-to-month plan offers. Your lifestyle and preferences will guide your choice.

Tip: When you shop for electricity plans, you can filter and sort plans by term length

Reputation

You may feel better choosing an energy company that has been around for many years. Or, one that your family or friends like. No matter your criteria, you’ll want to find an electric company in Texas you trust.

FYI: All of the electricity providers on Everything Energy have a proven track record of serving Texans.

Extras & perks

Electricity companies sometimes offer extra incentives for enrolling. Some incentives may include airline miles, energy-efficient gadgets, bill credits, or gift cards. Factor in the value of these offers. How much they appeal to you? This will help you decide which energy company works best for you. 

Hint: When you search for a home electricity plan on our site, you can filter your results to see plans that offer extras. Just select Perks and Rewards on the search page.

Renewable energy options

Plans that deliver solar or wind power are popular choices. That’s because they make it easy to lower your carbon footprint. So, if you want to be more eco-friendly, a clean energy plan may be your top priority when choosing an energy company.

You can learn more about clean energy from energy.gov.

Did you know? For renewable energy companies, you can’t go wrong with Green Mountain Energy.

Green options

In addition to renewable energy plans, some electricity companies also offer other ways to “go green” at home. This ranges from free eco-gadgets to innovative tools. The aim is to make your home more energy efficient. 

Heads up: Direct Energy and Reliant Energy are two energy providers that often give these types of options.

Ease of service

To some people, talk of kilowatt (kWh) hours and usage can be overwhelming. Don’t forget, energy shopping tools can simplify your search. But there are also companies that put extra effort into making electricity as simple as possible. 

Note: Cirro Energy is an energy company that makes electricity easy from enrollment to billing.

Overall cost

When you’re on a strict budget, cost is king. Keep one thing in mind though; the lowest cost per kWh doesn’t always mean the cheapest electricity. Luckily, you can get personalized monthly bill estimates on Everything Energy. This will help you make apples-to-apples comparisons of your plan options, and that’s very important when evaluating energy rates and plans.

Check it out: Discount Power’s budget-friendly energy solutions keep electricity affordable for Texas residents.

Find the energy company that matches your life.

Looking for an electric company that caters to your lifestyle? Start with Everything Energy. Our one-stop shop offers personalized pricing estimates and easy-to-use search tools. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need to select a new energy plan. Best of all, it’s so easy to use—start shopping today!

On August 30, 1836, the city of Houston was established. Brothers Augustus C. and John K. Allen paid around $1.40 per acre for 6,642 acres near Buffalo Bayou. In honor of this great city’s 186^th birthday, we’re shining the spotlight on electricity companies in Houston. 

When did electricity come to Houston?

In 1882, the Houston Electric Light Co. was created. That’s 140 years ago! And did you know that Houston and New York were the first two cities to build electric power plants?

Flash forward to nearly a decade later. In 1891, Houston became the first Texas city with electric streetcars. As you can see, Houston has been on the head of energy innovation from the start. 

The Energy Capital of the World

A lot has changed since those early days of energy. Houston has grown to become a leader in the industry. According to the Greater Houston Partnership, the city is home to the 4^th largest concentration of engineers as well as:

• 600 exploration and production firms
• 1,100 oilfield service companies
• Many energy startups (which make up 15% of Houston’s digital tech startups)
• 44 of the country’s publicly traded oil and gas companies (out of 128)
• Solar, wind and other renewable energy companies

Plus, Houston is helping to lead the transition to clean energy. Read more about the city’s full strategy for low-carbon energy options here.

That’s quite the impressive and lasting energy presence. It’s no wonder Houston has been called the Energy Capital of the World! 

Now you know about the city’s long history in energy. So, let’s dive into some of your options for electricity companies in Houston.

Can I choose my Houston electricity provider?

About 90% of Texas live in a deregulated energy market. This gives most people in the state the power to choose the Houston electric company they prefer. 

To be clear, your Transmission and Delivery Service Provider (TDSP) is assigned to you. Your home or apartment’s address defines your TDSP. 

However, you’re free to choose your Retail Electricity Provider (REP). And there are many electricity companies in Houston to choose from.

What is a TDSP?

A TDSP is your utility company. It owns, operates and maintains the electric poles, wires and meters. A TDSP delivers electricity over their network to homes and businesses. 

In Texas, four TDSPs serve most of the state. They are AEP Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Oncor Electric Delivery and Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP).

What is an REP? 

A REP buys electricity at wholesale pricing. Then, it sells it to customers. In this way, REPs compete for your business. 

What TDSP serves Houston?

CenterPoint Energy is the TDSP that serves Houston. CenterPoint also delivers energy to some of Houston’s nearby areas. These include communities like:

• Bellaire
• Deer Park
• Galveston
• Humble
• Katy
• Kemah
• Missouri City
• Pasadena
• Prairie View
• Stafford
• Sugar Land
• Tomball
• And many others

What electricity companies in Houston can residents choose from?

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) regulates the state’s utilities, including electricity. The PUCT lists more than 100 REPs in Texas. Many of these REPs serve residents in Houston and nearby areas. 

Try searching for electricity companies in Houston using your ZIP code. You will be able to see some great REPs offer plans in your area

What is the best electric company in Houston?

Houston offers many trustworthy electric companies to choose from; however, it’s not possible to pinpoint the “best” one. It’s all a matter of opinion.

For example, maybe the “best” energy company in Houston to you is the one that offers the lowest rate. Or, maybe the “best” Houston electricity provider is the one that offers the most renewable energy plans. 

No matter what you’re looking for, there is a plan for you. The electricity companies in Houston know they have to meet your budget and needs to earn your business. 

Check out these five electricity providers Houston residents can choose from. Each of these companies has stood the test of time. And they also regularly earn positive reviews. Plus, they offer electricity plan options for a variety of lifestyles.

Reliant Energy

Reliant Energy, based in Houston, has been providing energy to Texans for more than 20 years. It’s one of Texas’ most popular REPs. In fact, Reliant serves more than 1 million customers across the state.

Plans and benefits

Plan highlights from Reliant include options such as:

• Time-of-Use plans that offer free energy during specific times of the week, like nights or weekends
• Plans that come with bonus miles from airlines like United and Southwest
• 100% solar-powered plans

Some of the ways Reliant stands out from the pack include:

• 24/7 award-winning customer service and support
• A strong commitment to community, supporting a wide range of non-profits and groups
• Discounts on backup power and smart home products
• A customer referral program
• Easy-to-use account management app and other innovative ways to manage your electricity usage

Customer reviews

Consumers rate Reliant 4.5 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. Customer comments include:

“We’ve been customers for 11 years. When we got solar panels, you helped make it an easy transition. Your rates are low compared to others.” – Sarah S. 

“The Truly Free Weekends plan has saved us a lot of money. I occasionally brag about how low my energy bill is.” – Joshua N.

“We love the free electricity from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. We’ve saved over 30% on our electricity using the Truly Free Nights plan.” – William B.

You can learn more about Reliant Energy here.

Green Mountain Energy

Houston-based Green Mountain Energy was the first energy company dedicated to providing clean energy in Texas. Plus, they’re the nation’s longest-serving renewable energy retailer.

Enrolling in a plan from Green Mountain Energy is an easy way to make a positive impact on the planet. Also, choosing clean energy supports a cleaner grid. It also helps you shrink your carbon footprint. (That’s the amount of CO₂ you release into the atmosphere through your daily activities and choices.)

Plans and benefits

Plan highlights from Green Mountain Energy include options with:

• 100% renewable energy standard with every plan
• Time-of-Use plans offering free energy at night
• Solar energy plans that don’t require rooftop solar panels

Choosing Green Mountain Energy offers many benefits, such as:

• Discounts for choosing e-billing and setting up autopay
• The option to buy carbon offsets to negate CO₂ emissions from your daily activities (like driving) 
• Charitable giving that supports energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable solutions
• An app that lets you compare your energy usage and track your impact
• Tips to help you use less electricity and other ways to help protect the planet

Customer reviews

Consumers rate Green Mountain Energy 3.9 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. Customer comments include:

“I’ve been really happy with Green Mountain Energy so far. I’m excited to know that my energy use is coming from renewable sources!” – Ryan H.

“The setup was seamless; the product is great. It feels good being green. And, I now try to be more energy-efficient, too.” – M.K.B.

“They made setup, paperless billing and AutoPay a breeze. I love the weekly usage summaries — they make budgeting a snap.” – Jet J.

You can learn more about Green Mountain Energy here. 

Cirro Energy

Cirro Energy is one of the electricity companies in Houston with simple, easy and hassle-free electricity service. In fact, many customers across Texas enjoy Cirro Energy’s unique approach.

Plans and benefits

Cirro has energy options like:

• Plans that offer bill credits for keeping your energy usage below certain amounts
• Easy-to-understand monthly bills

Customers who choose Cirro also benefit from:

• Transparent pricing and terms
• Easy account management and bill pay, online or via their app
• Average billing, to make it easier to budget

Customer reviews

Consumers have rated Cirro Energy 3.8 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews. Customer comments include:

“[Cirro reassured me] that I was not exposed to crazy spikes in electric bills. Thank you for protecting your customers!” – Sue M.

“Wonderful customer service. Cirro has always been responsive [and] José went above and beyond to make sure the new plan was properly confirmed.” – Janice C.

You can learn more about Cirro Energy here. 

Discount Power

Looking for electricity companies in Houston with no-frills home electricity? Discount Power has you covered. Founded in 2009, Discount Power prides itself on giving people great deals with no surprises. Fixed-rate plans have no hidden fees. Just low prices to fit your budget.

Plans and benefits

Discount Power offers its customers:

• Convenient enrollment and self-service options
• Friendly customer service
• Simple electricity plan options
• Budget-friendly options

Customer reviews

Consumers rate Discount Power 4.1 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews.

“Amazing, competitive prices and customer service.” – Joe W.

“I’m real pleased with Discount Power. We signed up for two years and I’m glad we did. Excellent rates and good service.” – Raghu R.

“Fair pricing, great service. Highly recommended.” – Howie B.

You can learn more about Discount Power here. 

Direct Energy

Direct Energy, based in Houston, has been a trusted REP in Texas for more than two decades. The company provides practical tools and resources that fit in seamlessly with everyday life. 

Plans and benefits

Direct Energy offers several plan options, including those with:

• Free nights from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.
• Free power on weekends
• Bonus Amazon gift cards totaling over $300

Additionally, Direct Energy customers have access to:

• Insights tool that uses your Smart Meter data to build a home profile and estimate electricity usage of key systems and appliances
• Home Protection Plan add-ons to cover heating & cooling, plumbing, water & sewer, and more
• Excellent customer service

Customer reviews

Consumers rate Direct Energy 4.2 out of 5 stars on Google Reviews.

“We are taking advantage of the free nights program. We have decreased daytime energy use. That saves us money and puts less strain on the grid.” – John N.

“When other energy companies were raising rates during the freeze, Direct Energy stated that my bill would not be raised. I love their integrity and honesty.” – Ora B.

“Good service. And the price is reasonable for our family. We enjoy our free weekend time so we can do a big bulk of laundry without running the bill up.” – Brittany D.

“My bills are lower than with my previous energy provider! I can pay my bill over the phone with ease, and I like the email reminders.” – Gabriela O.

You can learn more about Direct Energy here. 

Where can I get the cheapest electricity rates in Houston?

Electricity companies in Houston, and across the state, all have unique plan offers. Really, there is no single company that provides the cheapest electricity rates in Houston or across Texas. 

Plus, cheap doesn’t always mean better. Actually, you’ll have more success if you take a step back during your energy search. For example, consider all aspects of an energy plan and provider. Then, choose the one that best suits you and your family’s lifestyle and likings

Want a simple way to find an energy plan that fits your budget and meets your needs? Shop online and rapidly compare plans and rates.

How do I compare electricity rates in Houston?

In fact, it’s easier than ever to shop and compare electricity plans and rates. To view plans from trusted electricity companies in Houston, simply enter your ZIP code at Everything Energy.

From there, you can select your average monthly usage. Then, filter plans based on electricity plan term length, provider and more. Plus, you can make side-by-side comparisons of your top choices. And you can even view monthly bill estimates. Start here!

If you’re curious about your monthly electricity usage and want to do some exploring, you’re in luck. There are a few ways to research this topic. One simple way is to use an online electric cost calculator. 

What is an electric cost calculator?

An electric cost calculator (also sometimes called electricity bill calculator, energy cost calculator, watt cost calculator, etc.) is an online tool. It helps you figure out the cost of using an appliance or electronic device. Just input the requested data, and it generates the cost. This can be a helpful tool to identify inefficient appliances. Or you can use it to see which appliances or electronics use the most energy in your home.

What are the best electric cost calculators?

You have many choices when it comes to using an electric cost calculator. But, each one has most of the same fields and they do the same thing. So, any one you choose should provide you with the information you’re looking for. 

Sample online electricity calculators

Here are a few options you can try:

• Electricity Cost Calculator from Good Calculators
• Energy Cost Calculator from Calculatorolgy
• Electricity Calculator from Calculator.net
• Energy and Power Consumption Calculator – kWh Calculator from Electrical Technology

What information do I need to calculate my energy usage?

Instructions should appear on the screen for the electric cost calculator you want to use.

To calculate electricity cost for specific appliances or devices, you will need the following information:

• Your electricity price per kilowatt hour (kWh) (You can find this on a recent electric bill or by logging into your electricity account.)

• The appliance(s) you want to examine

• The wattage (W) for each appliance (You can usually find this on a label directly on the appliance. You can also check the appliance’s user manual or look online for the model you have
• The number of hours you use the appliance(s) each day

How is the cost of using an appliance calculated?

The formula to calculate the cost of using a single appliance is:

(Watts/1,000) x Hours Used Per Day x Price per kWh = Cost to Operate Appliance Per Day

To find the cost to operate an appliance per month, simply multiply your total from above by the number of days in the month. To find the annual cost to operate, multiply your total from above by 365.

How do I figure out an appliance’s usage without using an electric cost calculator?

Maybe you want to try a different method of calculating an appliance’s usage cost. Or perhaps you don’t know the wattage of your appliance(s). In that case, you could use a Watt-meter instead. You plug an appliance into this small device, then plug the device into the wall. It then measures the appliance’s wattage and how much it uses while it’s plugged in. 

You can even enter your electricity price per kWh into the device. Then, it will also calculate your cost to operate for as long as it’s plugged in.

How do I calculate my entire energy bill?

If you want to estimate your entire energy bill, you could perform the above exercise for all of the large and small appliances and electronics in your home. However, using an electric cost calculator in this way would be very time consuming. 

Instead, you can see monthly bill estimates when you shop for electricity plans on Everything Energy. Simply enter your ZIP code and your average monthly kWh usage—500, 1000 or 2000. The rest is calculated for you.

What other types of electricity usage calculators exist?

If you want to dive a bit deeper into your electricity usage and efficiency, look no further. These free calculators from the Office Energy Efficiency & Renewable Energy give you a lot of great info:

• Electric & Gas Water Heater Cost Calculator
• Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) Cost Calculator
• Faucet & Showerhead Cost Calculator
• Carbon Footprint Calculator

Get more accurate monthly bill estimates with personalized pricing.

To get even more accurate bill estimates, you can try Everything Energy’s Personalized Pricing Tool. It’s like the Apple iPhone of electric cost calculators! Using your Smart Meter Texas historical usage data (with your authorization), Everything Energy provides personalized estimates for each electricity plan listed. That way, you can see which plan would be the most affordable or best option for your specific usage habits, needs and lifestyle. Best of all, it’s so easy to use—start shopping today!

August is National Back to School Month. As you wrap up your summer vacations and do some last-minute school supply shopping, don’t forget to put healthy habits into motion for the school year. Here are some easy ways your child(ren) can conserve energy at home — and potentially help lower your Texas electricity bill.

Start with a handful of energy-saving tips to conserve energy.

You don’t need to come up with a list of 100 ways to save energy at home in order to help your children make an impact on the environment and your electric bill. Just start with 5 ways to save energy at home and build from there. Try these easy home energy-saving tips that any student can get on board with.

Tip #1: Flip out.

Lighting accounts for about 15% of an average home’s electricity usage, notes the U.S. Department of Energy. So, help youngsters remember to flip the light switches off when a room is empty. It’s an easy way to chip away at a portion of your electricity usage.

Make it fun: Time your kid(s) as they race around the house turning off the lights.

Tip #2: Load less.

The average U.S. family does about 300 loads of laundry per year. That’s a lot of water and electricity. Do your children add to your workload by tossing mostly clean clothes into the hamper (or on the floor)? If so, you could be doing fewer loads each year. Start a new habit: if shirts, sweaters, pants or shorts look clean and smell fresh, they go back into the closet — and not into the washing machine. (Underwear and socks get a free pass straight into the laundry, though!)

Make it fun: Have your child(ren) keep track of how many loads of laundry are done per week. That way, you’ll all know if your efforts are working.

Tip #3: Unplug.

How about a screen-free, device-free night with the family? Whether it’s game night, a reading party, or an outdoor adventure, unplugging a few times a month (or week!) helps conserve energy. In fact, this is one of our favorite conservation of energy examples. That’s because it doubles as a way for everyone in the family to escape their ever-present screens for a while. 

Make it fun: Go totally electricity-free by using candles to light up your night.  

Tip #4: Suds up standing up.

Did you know that an 8-minute shower uses around 16 gallons of water? Meanwhile, an average bath uses between 35-50 gallons. The answer is clear: a quick shower can save both water and the electricity required to heat it, making it the more energy-efficient option. 

Make it fun: Fill in page 2 of this worksheet with your child(ren) to show them just how much they can help save by cutting their shower time by one minute.

Tip #5: Study in natural light.

Instead of using a ceiling light or desk lamp during homework time, have your child(ren) sit by a bright window. This helps conserve energy. Bonus: there are many health benefits of natural light like boosting vitamin D and improving both mood and sleep.

Make it fun: Turn on some classical music and place an after-school treat at the workspace to make homework time a positive activity.

Celebrate your successes as you save energy at home.

Let your child(ren) know that hard work pays off, whether it’s in the classroom or at home. For example, if you notice your electricity bill is going down each month, show them how they’ve made a difference. Or, if you receive a home energy neighborhood comparison noting that you’ve been more energy efficient than your neighbors, plan a reward for the family. Acknowledgement and positive support can go a long way in creating lifelong energy savers.

Conserve energy together for a brighter future.

In addition to possibly lowering your electricity bill, when you conserve energy at home, you’re helping the planet. That’s because using fewer kilowatt hours (kWh) means fewer carbon emissions and other greenhouse gasses get released into the earth’s atmosphere. By teaching the next generation the importance of conservation, you’re helping to reinforce a sustainability mindset.

Keep it going: Continue working toward energy conservation by following even more energy-saving tips together.

Find the best electricity plan for your family.

While creating new back-to-school energy conservation habits with your children, stop by Everything Energy. You can see if there’s a Texas electricity plan that better meets your family’s needs. Shop and compare electricity rates, and get personalized pricing in an instant. 

In Texas’s deregulated electricity market, you have the power to choose which Texas energy company powers your home. This means that there may come a time when you would like to switch your electricity provider. Luckily, the process is usually easy to complete. 

Why would I want to switch my Texas energy company?

You may want to switch to another Texas power company for a number of reasons, including:

• Your current plan is expiring. 

According to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), you can change your retail electric provider (REP) without incurring an early termination fee if you switch less than 14 days before your contract expiration date. (And, if you take no action before that date, your current REP will continue serving you. However, you’ll be put on a month-to-month plan by default. This type of plan often has a higher rate than a fixed-rate plan.) So, you may find this to be the ideal time to try a new Texas energy company.

• You’re moving. 

Yes, most Texas electric companies can continue providing you power if you move somewhere within their service area. But you don’t have to stay with the same provider in your new place. By showing proof of your change of address, you can often exit your current contract without an early termination fee. 

• Your current plan no longer meets your needs. 

Maybe you’ve changed how much energy you use, or what time of day you use it most, or you want to live greener by using renewable energy. Sometimes, you may just need an electric plan that fits better with your current lifestyle. And if your current Texas electric company does not offer what you need, you may need to make a switch.

• You found a better offer.

Shopping for electricity can often lead you to an offer that’s better than what your current electricity company provides. Whether you found a lower electricity rate, more convenience or additional incentives, a switch may appeal to you.

• You’re not happy with your current provider.

If you’ve had poor customer service from your current REP, you may be looking to switch. Finding a Texas electricity company you can trust can make all the difference in your satisfaction.

Can I switch my Texas energy company or plan?

As long as you’re not in debt to your current Texas electric company and you don’t have a switch-hold on your account, you’re free to switch. However, if you do owe your current provider money, you must pay off your balance before you choose a different one.

How do I switch my electric company or plan?

It’s actually not difficult to switch your Texas energy company; however, you should check your Electricity Facts Label before taking any action. This will tell you if you have to pay an early termination fee for switching. (But remember, if you’re within 14 days of your contract expiration date, you don’t have to pay a penalty.)

Do I need to cancel my current Texas power service first?

When you enroll on a plan with a new REP, you don’t need to cancel your current service. Your utility will do this for you and make the process seamless. In reality, disconnecting your current service can actually cause a lapse of service. And you definitely don’t want this to happen in the middle of summer!

Will I be charged a deposit when I switch to a different Texas energy company?

According to the PUCT, an energy provider might ask you to pay a deposit in order to meet their credit requirements. This will vary on a case-by-case basis, so be sure to ask your new REP if a deposit is required.

What are the best energy companies in Texas?

As you probably know, Texas has no shortage of energy companies. But which companies provide the best service, rates and options to meet your needs? You can begin by shopping the trusted electricity providers at Everything Energy. With personalized shopping tools at your fingertips, you can easily find a new energy plan that fits your lifestyle and budget. Click here to get started.

In the age of customization and choice, powering your home has become empowering. Energy companies that once had a one-size-fits-all service now offer many options to meet varying consumer needs. Now, when you search for an “electricity company near me,” that’s just the first step. Next, you evaluate the many plan options available to you and pick the most appealing plan for your lifestyle and budget.

Why do energy companies offer so many options?

According to consumer choice theory, people buy things that provide them the greatest happiness, while keeping within their budgets. As we know, people find happiness in different things. Plus, budgets vary. So, a one-size-fits-all approach to home electricity doesn’t offer the best solution for consumers. 

This is especially true for energy companies in Texas. Thanks to the deregulated market, electricity companies must compete for your business. Electricity plan customization and choices are natural effects of a free market. 

What types of plan options do energy providers offer?

Years of competition have led to new and modern electricity plan options for consumers. Today, energy companies offer plans with varying term lengths, pricing structures, sustainability levels, perks and more.

Term length

Want flexibility? Month-to-month plans let you cancel or switch anytime. Want to lock in an excellent rate? 12-, 24- and even 36-month term lengths provide stability. No matter what your situation, energy companies have you covered with a number of term lengths to choose from.

Pricing structure

Whether you use under 500 kilowatt hours (kWh) per month or over 2,000 kWh, you can pinpoint the plan that offers the best rate for your average usage. Plus, you can get even more customized options. For example, do you use more energy at night or on the weekend? Time-of-Use plans offer discounts for energy used during certain timeframes. That means, night owls and/or weekend homebodies can benefit from these types of plan options.

Sustainability levels

If you want to help the planet while you power your home, you’re in luck. Texas led the country in new renewable energy projects in 2021 and continues to offer consumers sustainable home energy options. From renewable energy companies to solar solutions and energy-saving tips, Texas energy companies deliver.

Perks

Incentives like gift cards, energy-efficiency tools and even airline miles have become more common parts of energy plans in recent years. In addition, electricity companies continue to develop impressive energy apps that give consumers more control and information. These types of perks can be a big draw for many people. So, they are yet another way energy companies address varying interests and budgets.

What are the best energy companies in Texas?

You have many choices when it comes to electricity plans and energy companies in Texas. The first and most important step? Find electricity providers in Texas you can trust. After that, you can see what plan options they offer and determine which term lengths, pricing structure and other factors would be ideal for your home. 

You may find more options than you expected. But that just means that you’re more likely to find a plan that is tailored to what you’re looking for. When energy companies compete for business, consumers like you win!

Find energy companies that offer perfect-fit plans for you.

With so many options out there, it’s just a matter of finding the best fit for you. Luckily, it’s easy to compare energy solutions and options for your home. You can even see personalized pricing for plans based on your historical usage data. Everything you need to shop and compare electricity rates can be found at Everything Energy. Find a plan today!

Have you ever wondered how you can compare power consumption of appliances in your home? Like, how much money does it take to run your refrigerator per day? Or, how much does it cost to leave your laptop plugged in all day? 

There is a handy little device that can tell you all this info and more. And, it might just be your secret weapon on your quest to have the cheapest electricity bill possible.

How can I compare energy prices for each electronic item in my home?

Every plugged-in item in your home draws some electricity. Figuring out which items drain a lot of extra energy is key to proactively lowering your energy usage. A watt meter can help determine energy draw for each device or appliance.

A watt meter is also called a power meter, or electricity usage monitor. It’s a small, handheld device that measures: 

• The voltage of the outlet itself (how much potential energy it can produce)
• How many kilowatts an electrical device plugged in consumes over a period of time

A quick review of watts, kilowatts and kilowatt hours

For reference, a watt (W) is a unit of power. A kilowatt (kW) is 1,000 watts, and a kilowatt hour (kWh) is how much energy a machine needs to use in order to run for one hour. Electricity providers’ bills show us how many kWh of energy we use each month. The monthly usage is then multiplied by the cost per kWh to find out how much we owe for energy. (Note: Fees and other charges can increase the final balance). 

How do I use a watt meter?

You can easily use a watt meter to compare power use of items in your home. Follow these three simple steps:

Step 1: Get plugged in.

Plug the watt meter into a three-pronged outlet. Then, plug the item whose usage you want to monitor into the watt meter’s outlet. 

Step 2: Enter your settings.

Following the watt meter manual, set your cost per kWh. (Hint: If you’re not sure where to find this information, check your Electricity Facts Label.)

Step 3: Check back later.

When you check the meter, you will see a reading for how many kilowatts the item has used since it was plugged in. You can also check the total cost it has racked up in that time period. As a result, you can now do some simple math to calculate how much the item uses in a day, week or month. 

Once you know this information, you can compare power consumption among your appliances and electronic devices. You can also compare power consumption of one item when it is in use and when it is in standby mode, too. 

A watt meter empowers you with knowledge, which you can use to take action. For instance, maybe you will decide to unplug heavy energy consumers when not in use to avoid phantom load. Or, maybe you will replace an old and inefficient appliance with one that’s Energy Star-rated. 

Where do I get a watt meter?

Watt meters can be found at home improvement stores. Also, many online retailers, such as Amazon, sell them. Plus, your local library may even have one you can check out for free! 

Compare power companies and plans online.

Compare electricity rates and electricity providers online to find the best match for you and your family’s energy needs. With personalized shopping tools just a few clicks away, Everything Energy helps you narrow down your options with ease. Therefore, why wait another minute — start shopping for energy today.

With inflation and the cost of living on the rise this year, many Texans are looking at any and every way to cut back on spending. That includes finding cheap electricity to help lower monthly utility bills — especially in Texas’s hot summer. But is cheap electricity always the best choice for powering your home? Let’s take a closer look at the issue.

Should I be looking for the cheapest electricity rates?

Cheap electricity is the same as more expensive electricity, right? In essence, yes. So, cheap energy plans are very appealing in that respect. By simply choosing the energy plan with the lowest rate, you might assume you’ve found the best plan. But price is just the beginning. You’ll want to consider much more when choosing how to power your home.

Besides cheap electricity, what else should I look for in a Texas energy provider?

Before narrowing it down to the plans with the cheapest energy rates, look at other related factors including:

• What perks or credits do other, higher-priced electricity plans offer? Are these worth the difference in the energy rate to you?
• How long has the electricity provider been in business? 
• Does the electricity provider have a good reputation online and among your family and friends?
• Does the provider offer tips and tools to help you reduce your electricity usage? (This can potentially help lower your utility bill.)
• What other “extras” can you get from another provider, such as a mobile app, detailed usage information, energy-efficiency comparison emails, etc.?

Some Texas electricity providers add more value to an electricity plan than others. Along with price, all of these things should be considered when you make your decision. At the end of the day, you want an electricity company you can trust that offers what’s most important to you.

What is the cheapest energy company?

Some Texas energy companies offer a no-frills approach to electricity. This can (but doesn’t always) equate to cheap electricity. Really, there’s no single energy company in Texas that consistently provides the cheapest energy. Plans and pricing change often. So, a low-priced plan you see today may not be the least expensive option tomorrow. 

What else should I know about electricity rates?

Before you choose a cheap electric company or plan based on price alone, take a step back. Do you understand the details related to rates? For example, you may see a great electricity rate online, but on closer look, it turns out to be a month-to-month plan. This means your rate could spike the following month with no warning. Term length matters, and it can affect your average monthly bill.

Also, you’ll want to know how many kilowatt hours (kWh) you use, on average, each month. That way, you can make accurately compare rates of plans. Comparing rates for a monthly usage of 500 kWh to rates for 2,000 kWh can be like comparing apples to oranges.

How do I find cheap electricity plans?

The easiest way to find an electricity plan that fits your budget, lifestyle and needs? Shop and compare electricity plans with Everything Energy. You can even use your Smart Meter Texas usage data to see personalized pricing and monthly bill estimates!

What are the best electricity companies in Texas?

Now you know that there’s no single cheapest energy company in Texas. You also know that many electric companies provide added value to consumers. You can find this value in many forms, like excellent customer service, perks, credits and energy-efficiency guidance. So, now it’s time to combine this knowledge to find electricity companies and plans that best fit you and your family.

When you use an advanced online energy shopping tool, you can look at plans and features side by side. That means you can make apples-to-apples comparisons to find your perfect match.

Are there other ways to lower my electricity bill? 

Getting cheap electricity is not the only way to save money on your electric bill. More ways to help lower your electricity costs include:

• Earn bill credits: Some electricity providers in Texas will offer a credit on your monthly bill for enrolling in paperless billing, automatic payments or other options. You may even find energy companies that reward you for referrals.
• Lower your usage: Using less can help lower your bill. It doesn’t have to be drastic. Simple things like changing your AC’s air filter or unplugging devices when charged can make a difference.
• Make home improvements: Sealing drafty windows and doors or adding insulation can help your home become more energy efficient.
• Consider upgrades: If you’re in the market for new appliances, check out Energy Star-rated machines. They’re more energy-efficient than most standard appliances. So, they can help you use less and save money over time. 
• Embrace smart tech: Smart thermostats, plugs, lighting and more can help you save more and use less. 

Find an affordable energy plan today.

As you can see, getting the cheapest electricity that’s out there may not always be the best option for your situation, home energy goals and preferences. But no matter what your top priority is when it comes to electricity, we can help. To get started, just enter your ZIP code at EverythingEnergy.com. We’ll guide you from there.

Thanks to a deregulated electricity market, most residents have the power to choose their Texas retail electricity provider (REP). They can also choose from many plan term lengths. Energy rates in Texas vary by plans. Often, the term length can affect those rates. 

What term lengths do Texas electricity providers offer?

To meet varying consumer needs, Texas electricity providers offer plans with numerous term length options. The most common term lengths include:

• Month-to-month: No long-term contract means you can switch plans or providers anytime. However, your rate can change each month. For this reason, month-to-month plans are also referred to as variable-rate plans.
• 6-month: A contract for half a year, with energy rates locked in for that amount of time.
• 12-month: One of the most common electricity plan term lengths. You get an entire year of price security.
• 18-month: A term length with price security for a year and a half.
• 24-month: Two years of locked-in energy rates.
• 36-month: Three years of fixed electricity rates.

Any plans with more than a month-to-month term length are also referred to as fixed-rate plans. That is to say, enrolling on a fixed-rate plan lets you lock in the same energy rate for the whole contract.

How do energy rates in Texas relate to a plan’s term length?

Often, but not always, there is an inverse relationship between the number of months of a contract and the price per kWh. That is, the longer the contract term length, the lower the Texas electricity rates may be. 

Why? The longer you’re locked in at a fixed price, the less guessing a retail electricity provider has to do when purchasing power. (And, if an electricity provider guesses too low and cannot supply enough power, they must purchase more power at higher prices to meet customer demand.)

Therefore, the lower rates give consumers an incentive to choose longer term lengths. As a result, the electricity provider lowers its risk of over- or under-buying energy.

Texas electricity rates for long-term plans

When you shop for electricity, you’ll probably see a lot of fixed-rate plans available. Many people prefer to enroll in a long-term electricity plan, for a number of reasons. 

What are the benefits and drawbacks a long-term electricity plan?

An electricity contract with a term length of 6 or more months has a number of benefits:

• You get a steady, fixed rate for a specific period of time.
• It’s easier to construct a budget.
• You won’t have to shop for energy or switch providers as often.

But, a few things to consider about fixed-rate plans include:

• Many contracts have early cancellation fees
• You’re locked into a long-term commitment
• You may not be able to take advantage of market rate drops if they occur

If you think the pros of a long-term contract outweigh the cons, this might be the type of term length for you. If not, you may want to explore a variable-rate plan.

Energy rates in Texas for short-term plans 

As you shop and compare electricity plans for the best electricity rates in Texas, you may come across a number of appealing short-term plans. Some people prefer these variable-rate options.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of a short-term electricity plan?

Going month-to-month with your home electricity offers some benefits to the consumer, such as:

• The flexibility to change plans anytime, without early termination fees
• More chances to take advantage of lower energy rates in Texas
• No long-term commitment to any provider

As with fixed-rate plans, variable-rate plans have a few drawbacks, like:

• Your rate can spike without warning
• It’s more difficult to budget (you’re at the mercy of the energy market)
• You may spend more time shopping for energy plans and switching providers

If you think the pros of a short-term contract outweigh the cons, you may want to choose this type of plan. However, if it feels too risky for you, a fixed-rate plan may be your better option.

What affects the variable energy rates in Texas?

The energy rates in Texas for variable-rate plans depend on the market price of energy. As a result, month-to-month electricity plans can experience more volatility than fixed-rate plans. Forces affecting the variable rate include weather, government regulations, geopolitical events, outages and other outside factors, like pandemics and natural catastrophes.

How do I find past rates for a month-to-month plan?

If you’re considering signing up for a month-to-month electricity plan, you probably want to know about the recent monthly rates. You can usually find this information on the REP’s website or by searching the web for the REP and its “past variable rates” or “historical pricing.”

Transmission/Distribution Service Providers (TDSPs) like ERCOT also lists past variable rates for month-to-month Texas electricity plans. 

What’s better: a short-term or a long-term energy plan?

As you can see, each type of electricity plan has its own set of pros and cons. Therefore, these should be  weighed against your unique situation, budget and lifestyle. Then, with careful consideration, you can narrow down which type of plan suits you best.

Shop Texas electricity rates for all term lengths

In conclusion, you now know how energy rates in Texas and a plan’s contract length can be related. As a result, you can now better understand the options available to you. And, you probably have a term length in mind that would best suit your unique situation. 

So, all that’s left to do is simplify your search by using Everything Energy’s tools to shop and compare plans. We make it easy to find your perfect energy match from Texas electricity providers you can trust!

In 2021, there were 143 billion app downloads (more than doubling 2015’s total) and 7 million apps available across iOS and Android platforms. So, it’s no surprise that many power companies in Texas have their own customer applications.  

First and foremost, these energy apps make it easy to do everyday activities such as pay your electric bill and contact customer service. However, they also provide innovative ways to track and manage your electricity usage, connect other related services and even educate yourself to become a more empowered consumer.

Take a peek at some of the amazing things these powerful electricity apps can help you do.

Understand your Texas power usage

While you can’t control your electricity plan’s cost per kWh, you can alter the way you use energy in your home. This can help you become more energy efficient and help lower your bill. Many apps from Texas energy companies help you better understand how you have used electricity in the past. That way, you can make changes to lower your usage in the future. 

1. View your energy usage history

Have you been with the same electricity provider for more than a year? It’s informative to see how much energy you used each month and compare it to previous years of usage. For instance, you may wonder how many kWh you used during an exceptionally hot month or a month where you were out of town for two weeks and left the air conditioner set at 82°. Being able to compare a month like this to that same month the previous year helps you understand the impact of certain environmental or situational factors. Knowing where you’ve been is the only way to know where you’re going.

>> Power tip: Accessing your monthly usage can also help when shopping for a new electricity plan from trusted power companies in Texas. Using Everything Energy, you can view plans and pricing based on your average kWh usage. Simply filter by 500, 1000 or 2000 kWh of usage per month.

2. Monitor your current electricity usage

Smart Meters have advanced our knowledge of personal energy consumption tremendously. We can now see, in near-real time, how we’re using electricity. Many Texas energy companies have apps that can show you your Smart Meter data. Knowing your daily or weekly usage can help you pinpoint energy spikes or dips better than a monthly figure. Then, you can better adjust your thermostat settings, behavior and other factors accordingly.

>> Power tip: By granting Everything Energy access to your Smart Meter Texas usage data, you can view personalized monthly bill estimates. You’ll see projections based directly on your historical electricity usage. You’ll even be provided with a usage analysis, so you can understand how and when you use electricity. For example, we’ll show you have much you use on weekends and weekdays, daytime or nighttime. From there, you can filter your search results to find the plan that best suits your needs. 

3. Learn more about factors that affect your bill

Some apps from power companies in Texas show you how your usage (and bill) can be affected by outside factors. With interactive and customizable graphs, you can see how trends, costs and weather in your area can have a direct impact on your energy use.

Pay your electricity bill

Energy mobile apps let you do even more than just learning about your electricity usage. They also make it easy to pay your monthly bill on time and perform other billing-related actions with just a few taps. 

4. View your current balance

Getting an on-demand balance is helpful if you need to move funds around to make a payment. Or if you want to utilize the figure as you compile your monthly budget. Some apps can even show you a day-by-day balance, so you can estimate your total balance when it comes time to pay.

5. Change your payment method

Need to update your payment details? Gone are the days of calling customer service, waiting on hold and digging through your files to find your account number. Mobile apps make self-service tasks like switching or updating your payment method simple. So, if your card expired, you had to get a replacement card or you just want to pay your bill from a different account, no worries. All you have to do is open the app and edit the details in your settings.

6. Set bill payment reminders

Many electricity apps give you the ability to set a reminder to pay your bill. This feature helps you stay on top of your bills and avoid incurring late fees. It can also serve as an extra reminder if you’re on paperless billing and your e-bills tend to get lost in your inbox. Ditto if you pay your bill by check but you sometimes don’t open mail right away.

7. Schedule a payment to your Texas power company

All it takes to change the day your bill is paid electronically are a few clicks in your energy provider’s app. That means if you’re experiencing a cash shortage or waiting for a deposit to clear, this feature has you covered. It can help you avoid costly overdraft or non-sufficient fund fees from your bank or credit union.

8. Switch between multiple addresses and accounts

Do you receive power at more than one address? Some power companies in Texas have apps that require only a single sign-on for you to manage all of the service locations in your account. This saves you time and the inconvenience of remembering several login passwords.

Manage your Texas electricity provider account

Mobile apps from electric companies have made it easier than ever to take control of your account. Now, you can manage your profile, preferences, services and more.

9. Manage your Texas power services

Paperless billing, autopay and average monthly billing — along with other services your provider may offer — can often be activated (or deactivated) through use of their app.

10. Sign up for add-ons

In addition to those mentioned above, some energy providers offer a suite of related products and services available to consumers. These can include everything from energy-efficient products and backup power to home warranties and donations to support non-profits. Each provider offers unique opportunities, which you can often sign up for directly in the provider’s app.

11. Renew your plan or enroll in a new plan

Are you satisfied with your current Texas electricity provider? Don’t want to shop Texas electricity rates before your current plan expires? You may be able to continue your service in the provider’s app. Whether you have the option to renew your current plan or sign up for a different offer, completing the transaction via a mobile app can be convenient and easy. 

12. Transfer your service to a new address

Moving to a different apartment or house can be stressful. But many mobile apps from energy providers make it easy to just take your plan with you. That means you can schedule your electricity to be turned on in your new place (and turned off in your old place) for a seamless transition.

13. View your contract and plan documents

If you ever need to review your electricity plan’s Terms of Use, Electricity Facts Label or other documents, they can usually be found with your plan details in the provider’s mobile app. This makes it easy should you want to check on items such as your plan’s renewable energy content, price per kWh, early termination fees and more.

Become an empowered energy consumer

Many modern electricity companies want to help consumers make informed decisions about their home energy and how it fits in with their life holistically. This is especially true in the Lone Star State. Most people have the power to choose a Texas energy plan from a lengthy list of providers competing for their business. The electricity companies’ apps provide the perfect medium to share this type of useful information.

14. Earn referral rewards

Some power companies in Texas have referral programs. For example, you can earn a perk like a bill credit when you refer friends and family. This feature can often be accessed via the app, which makes it easier to share your referral ID or link. 

15. Track your green impact

If you’re enrolled in an electricity plan that features energy from renewable sources, some apps let you see just how much of an impact you’re making. For instance, stats and equivalencies can put your impact into real-world terms. Meanwhile, earning badges can be a fun way to motivate yourself to continue living sustainability. 

16. Link and manage your electric vehicle (EV)

Some energy apps may give you the option to schedule when to start and stop charging your EV. If you typically charge at night, you don’t have to worry about forgetting to plug in before going to bed. And if you’re enrolled in a time-of-use electricity plan, this feature can be beneficial to the grid and your bill by charging up during off-peak hours when demand and energy rates are lower.

 17. Sync your electricity with other services

The “smart home” continues to evolve. Some energy apps give you the ability to control your smart thermostat, home security system and solar panel production for greater convenience and efficiency.

18. Contact customer service

Help on the go is just a few taps away with an energy app. For questions or problems about your electricity service or account, mobile apps can give you easy access to customer support through email, chat and/or phone. 

Endless options from power companies in Texas 

Perhaps you want an electricity plan with a mobile app that does it all. Or maybe you’d rather have a no-frills, tech-lite plan that keeps it simple. Either way, you can choose the Texas power option that best fits your needs, preferences and lifestyle. To find the perfect match, Everything Energy provides a straightforward way to shop and compareenergy providers and plans available in your area. Start your shopping today!