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. 

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!