Whether you’ve recently moved to Texas, live in a newly deregulated region like Lubbock or are a long-time resident of the Lone Star State, choosing an electricity plan can be a bit tricky. From the many retail electricity providers (REPs) available to sometimes-confusing plan pricing, it’s easy to make a costly error or two along the way.

Keep reading for five common mistakes to avoid when making energy rate comparisons.

Mistake #1: Ignoring the fine print.

There’s more to an energy plan than just the price per kilowatt hour (kWh). To make sure you fully understand the plan you’re signing up for, including details about additional fees, usage restrictions and potential rate changes, make sure to read the plan’s Electricity Facts Label. This will help you avoid unpleasant surprises on your electric bill.

Mistake #2: Overlooking contract length.

Every plan has a contract term length. Common terms are 6 and 12 months, which secures your energy price for that period of time. But some plans are month-to-month where the pricing can vary each month. There are also longer-term contracts like 24 and 36 months. Only you can determine which contract length will work best with your current and expected living situation.

Mistake #3: Choosing the “cheapest” electricity plan.

When you compare energy rates in Texas, the cheapest electricity plan is not always the best choice. That’s because the price per kWh listed on a website’s search page may have additional fees and charges in the fine print. (See Mistake #1 above!) Or you could be looking at an introductory price, which could skyrocket after the initial period. Both situations may drive your electricity bill higher than you’d expect.

When you’re shopping for energy, you want to make sure you’re comparing apples to apples. This may require a little math, but doing so will help you find the best electricity plan for your budget.

Mistake #4: Forgetting to check reviews.

What good is a cheap energy plan if it comes with billing mistakes or customer service headaches? Your time is valuable, so you should consider the reputation of an REP before you sign up. Are online reviews mostly favorable? Are there any common complaints? Do your family and/or friends recommend the REP? Initial research prior to making energy rate comparisons will help you choose an electricity provider you can trust to meet your expectations.

Mistake #5: Not considering your usage patterns.

Before you compare energy rates, assess your daily and weekly energy usage patterns as well as your billing history. This can help you zero in on a plan that works best with how you use energy in your home. For example, a time-of-use plan that offers free or discounted nights or weekends could result in cost savings if your heaviest usage falls within the stated timeframes. (Again, always read the fine print!)

Avoid these common mistakes by searching with Everything Energy

With Everything Energy, you can make energy rate comparisons with ease — and avoid the potentially costly mistakes listed above. You’ll be able to access plan documents, view contract term lengths, read customer reviews of trusted REPs and make apples-to-apples price comparisons using your own usage history.

Yep — you can do it all, in one place. It’s free, it’s simple, and when you find a plan you like, you can enroll with just a few clicks. Get started today!

With summer break approaching, now is the time to dedicate a few minutes to finding the best energy rates for your summer plans.

Maybe you’ll be out of town for weeks. Or perhaps you plan to relax by the pool every day. Or maybe you’re looking forward to staying up late and sleeping in. No matter your plans, you can find the best electricity provider for your summer break.

What are some of the best energy rates and plans for families staying home this summer?

Do you work from home? Have kids who will be lounging around with friends over summer break? Do your plans include staycations at home by the pool? If so, you can find the best energy rates by assessing how much electricity you typically use in summer.

One way to do this is to look back over last year’s bills during the summer months. This will give you an idea of how many kilowatt hours (kWh) your household might use this season.

At that point, you can search online for the best electricity rates for your usage. Many sites default to show pricing for 2,000 kWh per month. But if you only use 1,000 kWh or 500 kWh monthly, you will want to pay attention to those rates instead.

Everything Energy’s search tools let you customize your search, which includes filtering plans based on your monthly usage. It will then show you estimated pricing for those plans at your usage level.

What are some of the best electricity deals for night owls?

Time of Use plans that offer free or discounted rates during the night are great options if you like to get things done when everyone else sleeps. Loads of laundry and dishes, charging your electric vehicle, streaming your favorite shows, cooking meals for the next day — a Time of Use plan could help you save if you do these regularly at night.

Free or discount pricing hours vary from plan to plan. Some plans offer an 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. time range, while others have a 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. range. Check each plan’s Electricity Facts Label (EFL) to understand pricing and terms. This will help you figure out the best electricity plan for your specific schedule and lifestyle.

What are some cheap electricity plans for travelers?

Spending weeks or even months away from home this summer?

In this case, you don’t necessarily need to consider the season with your next energy plan. You should be able to save some green on summer electricity simply by making a few adjustments around your home while you’re out of town.

Then, simply look for the best energy rates based on your average usage, habits and needs. If you’re a night owl as mentioned above, a Time of Use plan may work best for you. Or, if you like to travel using airline award miles, an energy plan that comes with bonus miles may be appealing to you.

What are some of the best energy rates for eco-conscious consumers?

Did you know that 26% of the nation’s wind-powered electricity generation came from Texas in 2021? You can be a part of the state’s clean energy movement. Simply choose an electricity plan that uses renewable resources like solar or wind power. It’s an easy way to lower your carbon footprint.

To find the best energy rates for renewable energy, shop with Everything Energy. Simply select the filter “Renewable Option” (along with any other filters you’d like to apply) to see eco-friendly electricity options from trusted providers in Texas.

How do I make an electricity price comparison to find the best energy rates for my needs?

Everything Energy has all the tools you need to compare electricity rates and find the best electricity deals for your summer schedule — and beyond! To start shopping and see deals available in your area, simply enter your ZIP code.

Depending on which power company you use, you might receive a letter or email each month showing how your energy usage stacks up to your neighbors. Many electricity companies show customers information about their household usage. It’s just one of several helpful tools that some Texas electricity suppliers provide their customers.

How do electricity companies calculate neighborhood comparisons?

Electricity companies don’t just compare your monthly usage to random Texans. They typically compare your usage with other homes of similar size in your area.

From there, they can tell you whether you’re:

• Much more energy efficient than your neighbors
• A bit more energy efficient than your neighbors
• About the same or less energy efficient than your neighbors

Note: Each power company will have their own methods of gathering and reporting data. Plus, their rating system may vary from the description above.

What information do energy providers include on neighborhood comparison reports?

Electricity providers show other useful information in their report beyond just how your usage compares to your neighbors.

Reasons may include:

• Your account number
• The date range for the comparison
• How much your energy usage changed since the last comparison and/or the same time last year
• Energy-saving tips
• Your power company’s contact information

Overall, these comparisons provide valuable information about energy usage and costs, as well as ways to save energy and reduce energy bills.

Take advantage of these comparisons! They will empower you to make informed choices about how you use electricity in your home.

Why do electricity companies send out energy use comparisons?

Sure, using less energy can help net you a lower monthly electric bill. But why would electricity companies want you to be more energy efficient?

A few reasons include:

• They could receive government incentives for reducing their power generation
• It can cost energy suppliers more to produce extra energy during peak demand than having consumers use less of it
• It’s better for the planet

No matter the reasons, energy efficiency is a win-win for electricity companies and their customers.

How do I find an electric company near me?

It’s simple to find the best energy supplier for your home, family and budget! Just visit Everything Energy and enter your ZIP. You’ll quickly find providers in your area offering plans that fit your needs. Plus, the apples-to-apples comparisons make choosing a new plan easier than ever.

This week (April 15-21) is Money Smart Week. This national public education program aims to empower people with the tools to make better personal financial decisions. Electricity is an often-overlooked area of peoples’ budgets, so now is the perfect time to discuss how to compare electricity prices.

Why compare electricity prices?

Electricity is a significant household expense for most Texans. If you compare electricity rates to find the cheapest electricity or the plan that makes the most sense for your home and life, you could lower your energy bill. And that’s money that goes right back into your budget for other things.

How do I compare electricity prices?

Being “money smart” when it comes to your electricity can mean leaving no stone unturned. One way to begin your energy comparison is to reach out to your neighbors. They would probably be happy to compare energy prices and see who has the cheapest electricity supplier. Everyone could benefit from the sharing of information. For some, it may be an eye-opening exercise.

Just remember to look beyond the balance. Make apples-to-apples comparisons of rates and other charges listed.

How else can I make an energy comparison?

The easiest way to compare electricity prices, plans and providers is to use an energy broker like Everything Energy. We help you compare numerous plans from a variety of trusted electricity providers.

When you compare electricity, price per kilowatt hour (kWh) may be at the top of your list. But other factors can affect your overall energy costs, including:

• Term length – A month-to-month plan may show a lower price-per-kWh online. But its rate varies by month and could rise any time. Longer-term plans offer price security for a specific length of time.
• Early cancellation fee – Some electric companies charge an early termination fee. This could affect your total energy costs if you decide to switch plans or providers before your contract ends.
• Your monthly usage – Before you get excited about that low price per kWh, check to see if it applies to your usage. If you use less than 500 kWh, for example, you may end up paying a bit more per kWh than someone who uses three times that amount.
• Time-of-use conditions – A time-of-use plan offers discounted rates — but only during certain periods, like nights or weekends. If you don’t use a significant amount of energy during those times, your price per kWh could be much higher.
• Additional benefits or perks – Some plans offer perks for signing up, which might more than make up for a slightly higher rate than other plans.

The lesson here is to make sure you take into account other factors when you compare electricity prices. Check the plan’s fine print to make sure it’s truly the cheapest electricity plan for your lifestyle.

What’s the first step to compare electricity rates?

You’re already where you need to be! Head over to Everything Energy’s home page. Then, simply enter your ZIP code to see electricity plans available in your area. Don’t forget to enter your monthly usage and check out the other filters available. You’ll be on your way to your best energy plan in no time?

When was the last time you sat down to compare electricity usage, year over year? Doing so can help you take control of your energy bill — and budget.

Compare electricity usage to your previous bills

Knowledge is power. Do you know…

• …how many kilowatt hours (kWh) you use during an average month?
• …how many kWh you use during your cheapest electricity months?
• …how many kWh you use during your most expensive energy months?

If not, it’s time to investigate. You can start your energy comparison with two simple steps.

Step 1: Compare electricity bills from this year and last year

If you’ve lived in your current residence for more than 12 months, it will be straightforward to compare electricity usage. Simply find your current bill and last year’s bill from the same time period. (It doesn’t matter if you have had different electricity providers because you’re only looking for your usage data.)

You should see your monthly kWh listed on your invoice. How does your usage this month compare to that same month last year? Check other months to see if you seem to be using more, less or about the same amount of electricity that you used a year ago.

If you have switched residences in the past 12 months, it will be more difficult to compare electricity usage. This is especially true if the two places vary greatly in size and/or energy efficiency. However, it’s still a good exercise to complete to better understand how you use energy.

Step 2: Figure out the reason(s) for the year-to-year difference

The next step to compare electricity usage is to figure out why it’s higher or lower than a year ago.

If you’re using more electricity than this time last year, what could be the reason? There could be many behavior-based reasons. These include working from home more often, going on fewer or shorter vacations, using a gaming computer more often, adding energy-consuming appliances, etc.

What if you can’t think of any changes in behavior that could have caused the difference? You might start looking at your home’s structure to see if improvements should be made. For example:

• Do you need to reseal air leaks around doors and windows?
• Does your HVAC’s air filter need to be replaced?
• Are you using your thermostat in the most efficient way?
• Are any major appliances in need of replacement?

Addressing issues like these can help you reduce your electricity usage.

If you’re using less electricity than last year, that’s great! Ask yourself what behaviors may have contributed to that year-over-year decrease — and keep doing them as often as possible.

Challenge yourself to use less by this time next year

Now you have a better understanding of the factors that may have affected your electricity usage in the past 12 months. So, why not commit to making the next 12 months more energy efficient? Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Try some energy-saving tips from Texas electricity providers.
• Measure electronic device or appliance usage with a watt meter to learn more about which items in your home use the most energy.
• Utilize smart plugs to set timers and schedules for electronics that don’t always need to be turned on.
• Swap out incandescent light bulbs for more efficient LEDs (including during the holidays).
• Compare electricity rates, plans and providers to discover the best energy deals.

The simplest way to compare electricity prices

Reducing your usage is one way to lower your electricity bill. Another way is to compare electricity plans and pricing to make sure you’re getting a good deal. The simplest way to do that? Search Everything Energy to find the plan and price that’s best for your home, lifestyle and budget.

You may be feeling a little lucky this week with St. Patrick’s Day approaching. But when it comes to finding low energy rates for your home, it takes a little more than luck.

It’s true, there are some great electricity rates out there from Texas electricity providers. You just need to do some research first.

What happens to my energy rates when I leave my electricity choice up to chance?

One of the great things about Texas is its deregulated electricity market. This gives Texans the power to choose their retail electricity provider (REP). The good news is, there is an abundance of REPs to choose from.

The bad news is … well, there is an abundance of REPs to choose from. The thought of digging through all the options for the lowest energy rates might make you want to just pick one randomly and hope for the best. (Especially if you’re one of the many newcomers Texas gains each year.) Or, if you currently have a Texas energy provider, you may be tempted to let your contract automatically renew.

Both of these “strategies” mean you are not exercising your right to choose to the fullest extent. And you could be missing out on lower energy prices from your current REP or other electricity providers.

Is electricity price per kWh the pot of gold I should be looking for?

When you shop for energy rates, you’re probably looking mainly at the kilowatt hour (kWh) cost. This is a helpful starting point. But there are many factors that can drive that price on the screen up or down. A good thing to remember is that cheap energy is not always the best choice.

In addition to price, don’t forget to consider:

• Term length – A month-to-month plan may have an appealing kWh cost at first, but it can fluctuate with market prices on a monthly basis.
• Plan type – A Time of Use plan, such as one that offers free or discounted rates on nights or weekends, could affect the average kWh cost on your bill. It may have a higher rate listed that some other plans. But if you use most of your electricity during the discounted periods, it could result in lower average energy rates than regular plans. (However, a Time of Use plan can also result in higher kWh costs than listed if you don’t take advantage of the discounted time periods.)
• Other perks – A plan that comes with a bonus offer — like airline miles — might turn out to be a better deal, or more valuable to you, even if the electricity price per kWh is a bit higher than other plans.

What else should I look for in electricity providers and plans to save some green?

In addition to term length, plan type and added perks, other factors are also important to consider before you choose an energy plan.

First and foremost, find a Texas electricity company you can trust. A cheap electric company should still have good customer service and positive consumer ratings.

Second, you want to only consider the best electricity providers for your specific lifestyle and needs. If you’re sustainability-focused, that could mean choosing a provider that offers clean energy plans. If you’re budget-conscious, that could mean selecting a provider that offers ways to monitor and manage your electricity usage.

Finally, shopping for electricity based on your average monthly usage can show you more accurate energy rates. Plan pricing can vary based on how much you consume. For example, a person using 2,000 kWh per month could see a different average price per kWh than another person on the same plan who only uses 500 kWh a month.

In the past, these nuances were difficult to detect. However, there is now a very simple way to shop for electricity. Everything Energy’s innovative search tools let you easily filter plans based on your average monthly usage, term length, perk preferences, providers and more. It even shows you the true kWh cost and average monthly bill estimates based on your actual usage

How can I increase my odds of finding low energy rates?

In summary, luck can only get you so far. Finding the best energy rates is more than just choosing the plan with the lowest kWh costs. But Everything Energy takes the effort out of the equation, so you can search, compare and sign up for a plan in minutes.

Best of all, it’s free to use Everything Energy. Give it a try today and find the energy rates you’ve been looking for

When it comes to energy companies in Texas, you have many choices. Before you sign up for Texas electricity rates based solely on price per kilowatt hour, it’s important to find a Texas power company you can trust. Doing so takes time and research. 

Part of that research is learning about others’ experiences with specific energy companies in Texas. This includes family and friends, neighbors and online reviews.

Below are some testimonials from current or past customers of some of Texas’s trustworthy electricity providers.

Reliant Energy

Founded in 2000, Reliant Energy has been serving Texans for over two decades. In addition to residential electricity, they also power businesses. Electricity shoppers may be interested to know that Reliant Energy offers 24/7 customer support.

What people are saying about Reliant Energy

• “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.

This type of plan, sometimes called a “Time of Use” plan, offers free or discounted rates during certain days or timeframes. If you use the bulk of your electricity during the time period offered on a Time of Use plan, this may be a good Texas power plan choice for you.

• “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.

If your home has solar panels, or you’re considering adding them, some energy companies in Texas offer solar-specific plans worth researching.

• “I’ve had your service for over 20 years and always found you to be very reliable. No complaints.” –  Lynn C.

It speaks volumes if, when given the power to choose Texas electricity from any provider, someone sticks with the same one for two decades.

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

You don’t find many people bragging about their energy bill! But when you get organized and shop around, you can find a plan and pricing that could have you shouting its praise from the rooftops.

Green Mountain Energy

As the longest-serving retail energy provider, Green Mountain Energy offers 100% clean energy plans for homes and businesses. If you’re looking to incorporate more sustainability into your life, choosing Green Mountain Energy is an easy place to start.

What people are saying about Green Mountain Energy

• “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.

All of Green Mountain Energy’s electricity plans are sourced from 100% renewable sources, like the wind and the sun. When it comes to promoting clean energy for a healthier planet, the company is all in.

• “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.

In addition to renewable energy, Green Mountain Energy is one of the energy companies in Texas that emphasizes saving energy and green living. 

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

This Texas electric company lets you easily manage your account and view your usage history, online or via their app.

• “I am glad that I chose Green Mountain; [the electricity] service has been outstanding, and the customer service is excellent.” – Jero C.

Shopping around can not only help you find some of the best electricity rates in Texas — it can also give you peace of mind that you made a smart choice.

Direct Energy

With more than 20 years in business, Direct Energy empowers customers to track, understand and control the electricity they use. Doing all these things can help you conserve energy and potentially lower your bill.

What people are saying about Direct Energy

• “Easy-to-use web portal with useful insights into my electricity usage! Affordable, consistent pricing.” – Megan B.

Direct Energy is a company that delivers on the important things: ease of use, helpfulness and affordability.

• “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.

It’s always helpful when energy companies in Texas offer multiple ways to pay your electricity bill. When signing up for a Texas electric provider, make sure you can make a payment the way you prefer. 

• “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.

This is a prime example of why shopping for electricity is not just about finding the cheapest price per kilowatt hour listed online. Factoring in Time of Use discounts, how your family uses energy and your average monthly usage can all play a role in helping to keep your monthly bill in check.

• “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.”

As many saw during Winter Storm Uri in 2021, customer support from energy companies in Texas can become an important factor in customer satisfaction. Choosing a proven Texas electric provider with positive reviews like this one can help ease your mind.

• “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.

Time of Use plans can work out well for people that use a majority of their energy during the plan’s specified time periods. But if you don’t, you can always shift your usage times to maximize your savings on that type of plan. 

Cirro Energy

Cirro Energy has been serving Texas residents for years, making electricity “affordable, easy and hassle-free.” For example, bills are simplified and extremely easy to understand, with most charges combined into one simple balance.

What people are saying about Cirro Energy

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

Energy companies in Texas that help customers budget better, like Cirro Energy with its Average Billing option, provide a valuable benefit.

• “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.

Cirro Energy prioritizes making electricity easy, from enrollment to support. 

• “Dylan was very prompt and courteous during this Houston storm! Thank you so much for your fast replies and for caring!” – Ingrid M.

Getting answers or a resolution quickly when you have a pressing issue or concern is invaluable. Cirro Energy strives to make dealing with your electricity service a non-factor in your busy day.

Discount Power

For years, Discount Power has taken a no-frills, back-to-basics approach to residential electricity. While you won’t find lots of bells and whistles, you will still get excellent customer service, affordable plan options and energy-saving tips from this trustworthy Texas power company.

What people are saying about Discount Power

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

Sometimes, it boils down to finding a plan that fits your budget, which Discount Power aims to deliver.

• “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.

Energy companies in Texas know that it takes competitive rates and excellent service to earn your business. When you find one that offers both, it can feel like a perfect match.

What energy companies in Texas should I research?

To view rates and plans from Texas electric companies you can trust, check out Everything Energy. Use the easy, free search tools to find and compare great electricity plans to fit your family, home and budget. 

Dallas was formally incorporated as a city on February 2, 1856. The city came 11 years after the U.S. annexed the Republic of Texas, and a decade after Dallas County was established. In honor of the city’s 167^th birthday, we’re taking a look at its energy history and electricity providers in Dallas.

When did electricity come to Dallas?

The first light bulbs in Dallas lit up in 1882. To be more precise, 12 light bulbs over three locations shone brightly. A plant in a small wooden building, built with private funds just four years after Thomas Edison invented the incandescent lamp, supplied the energy. 

As need for electricity increased, a generation plant was built in 1890. By 1900, electricity in Dallas had become widespread. 

Nearly 100 years later, when the state deregulated electricity, electricity providers in Dallas have multiplied. And for good reason. The ninth-largest city in the U.S. by population, Dallas is one of the top electricity-consuming cities in the nation. It also attracts more than 22 million visitors each year. 

Now, it’s time to learn more about electricity companies in Dallas.

Can I take my pick from the electricity providers in Dallas?

You likely have your choice of electricity providers in Dallas. That’s because around 90% of Texas live in a deregulated energy market. This gives most people in the state the power to choose the best electric company in Dallas for their home, lifestyle and needs. 

For reference, you do not choose your Transmission and Delivery Service Provider (TDSP). Instead, it is assigned based on your home or apartment’s address. 

However, if you live in a deregulated area, you are free to choose your Retail Electricity Provider (REP). And there are many electricity providers in Dallas to choose from. 

What is a TDSP?

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

In Texas, five TDSPs serve most of the state. They are AEP North, AEP Central, 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. Because of this setup, REPs must offer competitive rates (and excellent service) to earn your business. 

What TDSP serves Dallas?

Oncor is the TDSP that serves Dallas. Additionally, Oncor delivers energy to some of the city’s nearby areas. This includes communities like:

• Addison
• Corsicana
• Chandler
• Dallas
• Denison
• Denton
• Diboll
• Fort Worth
• Midland
• Odessa
• Palestine
• Paris
• Plano
• Tyler
• Wichita Falls
• And more!

Which electricity providers in Dallas can residents choose from?

The regulating body for Texas’s utilities, including electricity, is the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). The PUCT lists more than 100 REPs in Texas. Many of these REPs serve residents in Dallas and nearby areas. 

Try searching for electricity companies in Dallas using your ZIP code. You’ll discover some popular REPs that offer service and plans in your area.

What is the best electric company in Dallas?

Dallas has many electric companies you can trust. However, identifying the “best” energy companies in Dallas is simply a matter of opinion and preference. 

For example, the “best” energy company in Dallas, in your opinion, may be the one offering the lowest rate. Or, maybe you think the “best” Dallas electricity provider is the one with the most renewable energy plans. As you can see, “best” is subjective.

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

Take a look at some of the electricity providers Dallas residents can choose from. Each of these companies has been in business for years. Plus, they regularly earn positive customer reviews. They also  offer electricity plan options for a variety of lifestyles.

Reliant Energy

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

Plans and benefits

Plan highlights from Reliant include options such as:

• Time-of-Use plans offering free energy during specific times of the week, like nights or weekends
• Plans with enrollment perks or bonuses
• 100% solar energy plans

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

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

Customer reviews

Customers of Reliant Energy shared these experiences:

“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.

“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. 

Learn more about Reliant Energy here.

Cirro Energy

Cirro Energy is one of the electricity companies in Dallas focused on easy, hassle-free electricity service. Many across Texas enjoy Cirro Energy’s unique approach.

Plans and benefits

Cirro has energy options like:

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

Customers who choose Cirro Energy also benefit from:

• Transparent pricing and terms
• Easy account management and bill pay, online or through their app
• Average billing for easier budgeting

Customer reviews

Cirro Energy customers provided these recommendations:

“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.

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

Learn more about Cirro Energy here. 

Green Mountain Energy

The first energy company dedicated to providing clean energy in Texas was Green Mountain Energy. They’re also the nation’s longest-serving renewable energy retailer.Enrolling in a Green Mountain Energy plan makes it easy to have a positive impact on the planet. Also, choosing clean energy supports a cleaner electricity grid. Plus, you can decrease your carbon footprint. (That’s the amount of CO₂ you release into the atmosphere through your day-to-day activities and choices.)

Plans and benefits

Plan highlights from Green Mountain Energy include options with:

• 100% renewable energy with every plan
• Panel-free solar energy plans 
• Time-of-Use plans offering free energy at night

Choosing Green Mountain Energy offers many benefits, like:

• The ability to buy carbon offsets to negate CO₂ emissions from your daily activities (like driving) 
• Charitable giving to support energy efficiency, renewable energy and sustainable solutions
• A mobile app to compare your energy usage and track your impact
• Tips for using less energy and other ways to help protect the planet

Customer reviews

Green Mountain Energy has earned many positive customer comments, including:

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

“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.

Learn more about Green Mountain Energy here.

Direct Energy

Direct Energy has been a trusted REP for Texans for over 20 years. The company gives customers practical tools and resources to manage their home energy and systems efficiently. 

Plans and benefits

Direct Energy offers a number of plan options, including those with:

• Free power on weekends
• Free nights from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m.

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
• Excellent customer service
• Home Protection Plans to protect heating & cooling, plumbing, water & sewer, and other systems in the home

Customer reviews

Satisfied Direct Energy customers had these comments to share: 

“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.

“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.

“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.

“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.

Learn more about Direct Energy here.

Discount Power

Want to find no-frills electricity companies in Dallas for your home? You can’t go wrong with Discount Power. Discount Power has prided itself on giving people great deals with no surprises since 2009. Fixed-rate plans have no hidden fees. Just low rates that fit your budget.

Plans and benefits

Discount Power offers its customers:

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

Customer reviews

Customers with Discount Power have commented:

“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.

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

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

Learn more about Discount Power here. 

What is the cheapest electric company in Dallas?

Electricity companies in Dallas and all over Texas all have unique plan offers. Really, there is no single company with the cheapest electricity rates in Dallas. Or Texas for that matter.

Plus, a cheap plan isn’t always the best plan. Actually, you’ll have more success if you take a step back during your energy search. For example, evaluate all aspects of an energy plan and provider. Then, choose the one that makes the most sense for you, your family and your home.

To find an energy plan that fits your budget and your life, shop and compare plans and rates.

How do I compare electric rates Dallas offers to residents?

Everything Energy makes it easy to shop and compare electricity plans and rates. To view plans from trusted electricity providers in Dallas, Texas, simply enter your ZIP code here.

After another summer of high energy bills, Texans may be interested in learning more about current electricity rates. Doing so can keep you informed about current energy prices and help you find low-cost electricity. It can also help you budget better before the hot days return.

To learn more about current electricity rates, visit trusted resources with reliable information. Here are a few you can count on.

Where can I learn more about current electricity rates?

1. The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)

The PUCT is the regulating body for Texas utilities. According to its website, it “regulates the state’s electric, telecommunication, and water and sewer utilities, implements respective legislation, and offers customer assistance in resolving consumer complaints.”

It was established in 1975, but its role has evolved over time. In 1999, the electricity market became deregulated. Now that customers have the power to choose their retail electric provider, the PUCT has an important role. It oversees the competitive wholesale and retail markets. This ensures Texans receive the benefits of competition. 

The PUCT can help people learn about current electricity rates and other costs on its Charges on Your Energy Bill page. It defines more than 20 terms you may see on your bill. Using this site, you can learn about how your monthly payments are allocated.

2. U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) 

The EIA is a government agency that “collects, analyzes and disseminates independent and impartial energy information to promote sound policymaking, efficient markets and public understanding of energy and its interaction with the economy and the environment.”

Created in 1978, the organization has a wealth of information about electricity and the energy industry. Topics you can dive into include short- and long-term energy projections, statistics by geography and more.

But, for information about current electricity rates, check out the Rankings page. It shows the average retail electricity price by state. You can see current electricity prices per kwh for Texas and how it compares to the other 49 states (and the District of Columbia). 

3. Smart Meter Texas About Us – Smart Meter Texas

According to its website, Smart Meter Texas is “a collaborative effort among […] AEP Texas Central Company, AEP Texas North Company, CenterPoint Energy Houston Electric LLC, Oncor Electric Delivery Company LLC and Texas-New Mexico Power Company.” 

Endorsed by the PUCT, the Smart Meter Texas website stores daily, monthly and 15-minute interval data recorded by Smart Meters. It also allows customers secure access to their data.

If your home has a Smart Meter, you can register on the Smart Meter Texas website. After doing so, you can view up to two years of your electricity usage data. 

Once registered, you’ll see a very detailed breakdown of when you use the most and least energy. This will prove important when you start looking into current electricity rates, electricity providers and specific plans.

For instance, some energy plans offer discounts during certain times of the day. These discounts typically fall on off-peak usage hours. (Think late at night or on weekends.) 

So take a look at your Smart Meter Texas data and see if the majority of your usage falls within these specific timeframes. If so, you will be able to search for low-cost electricity more effectively. 

After all, the more details you know, the easier it is to make the most beneficial choice.

4. Your current electricity provider

For some initial research into current electricity rates, you don’t have to look very far. See current offers from your electricity provider. Then, compare them to what you pay right now. In most cases, you can get started by visiting the provider’s website and typing in your ZIP code.

However, this is just one piece of the puzzle. You should also visit an energy broker  like Everything Energy. This will give you a larger and clearer picture of current electricity rates.

5. Everything Energy

For current electricity rates from Texas electricity providers you can trust, look no further! Everything Energy compiles top offers from well-known energy suppliers in the state. Then, we give you the tools to sort and filter based on your usage, needs and preferences. You can even sign up on a plan that very day.

Everything Energy can also use your Smart Meter Texas data (after you give permission) to provide more accurate monthly bill estimates based on your electricity usage history.

How can I compare current electricity rates today?

Now that you know where you can look to find the information you need about current energy prices, It’s easy to find low-cost electricity. Everything Energy offers the personalization needed to choose the best electricity plan for your home. Start shopping today!

It’s been said that “Comparison is the thief of joy.” When it comes to looking at someone who has “more” or “better,” comparison will steal your joy. Having just been the giver and receiver of some holiday gifts, it’s easy to start comparing with others. But a more beneficial exercise would be to compare energy rates.

By that, we mean shop around for the best electricity rates for your unique lifestyle.

How do I score the best electricity deals?

To get a deal on anything, you usually need to “shop around.” Most of us do it for mortgage rates and insurance … for electronics and clothing … for groceries and travel. The same applies to electricity. But don’t worry — it’s much easier than holiday shopping. 

To make sure you get an affordable rate that works well for your home and lifestyle, perform an electricity supplier comparison. That way, you can see what kinds of plans and pricing each of the electricity providers offers. 

Note: There are many electricity providers in Texas. Make sure you’re searching among trusted Texas energy providers. Learn how to identify them here.

How do I compare energy rates and providers easily?

A great way to make apples-to-apples comparisons of electricity plans is to shop through an energy broker like Everything Energy. There, you’ll find plans from a number of trusted electricity providers. You can search based on your typical usage, term length preference and other factors. You can also see average monthly bills for each plan, so you can compare energy rates accurately.

What should I be aware of when I compare energy rates?

When you start shopping around, remember it’s more than just finding the cheapest electricity provider. There are quite a few things to take into consideration when you want to compare energy prices and plans, including:

• What term length do you want? (Longer contracts often let you lock in a lower price per kilowatt hour (kWh), while shorter terms offer more flexibility.)
• How many kWhs do you usually use each month? (Price per kWh can vary depending on usage, so make sure you read the fine print when you compare electricity prices.)
• What are your electricity usage habits? (Some plans offer better pricing at night or on the weekend.)
• What additional perks do you find valuable? (Some plans offer airline miles, gift cards, bill credits or other “extras.”)
• Is the energy source important to you? (Some electricity providers offer renewable energy sourced from the sun or the wind.)

One or more of these factors may be very important to you and your lifestyle. Because of this, the cheapest electricity provider might not necessarily be the best for you.

What else should I look for when I compare energy prices?

Some websites make it tricky to make accurate comparisons between plans. Comparing the price per kwh of plans only shows part of the story. Make sure you’ve read the details of each plan to determine if any contain extra fees or rate increases that could bump your price per kwh higher.

Everything Energy helps take the guesswork out of comparison shopping by showing monthly bill estimates for every plan based on your inputs. This way, you can make accurate comparisons and avoid any surprises. 

Start shopping now to compare energy rates and providers

Shopping for electricity is one form of comparison that won’t steal your joy. You may even jump for joy when you see how easy it is to find the best electricity rates and options for your lifestyle. Search plans in your area today!