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.

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!

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

What term lengths do Texas electricity providers offer?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Texas electricity rates for long-term plans

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Energy rates in Texas for short-term plans 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What affects the variable energy rates in Texas?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Shop Texas electricity rates for all term lengths

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

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

If you’re one of the many Texans wanting to shop and compare electricity rates from different providers, listen up. We have a cool new tool for you to use!

Everything Energy’s Personalized Pricing tool lets you sort and filter electricity plans using your very own usage history — gathered from your home’s Smart Meter (with your consent, of course). That data allows us to provide you Everything Energy’s Personalized Pricing tool lets you sort and filter electricity plans using your very own usage history. The data we gather from your home’s Smart Meter (with your consent, of course) allows us to provide you with more accurate bill estimates. With those cents per kilowatt hour (kWh) rates translated into dollar figures, budgeting is a breeze. Best of all, it’s so simple. You can start viewing your personalized pricing and comparing electricity rates in less than five minutes!

Benefits of utilizing your Smart Meter data to compare electricity rates

Your home’s Smart Meter records your electricity usage in real time, typically at 15-minute intervals. Then, it digitally sends that data to your utility [Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas or Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP)]. Smart Meter Texas™ (SMT) securely stores that data. When you authorize Everything Energy to access that historical data to help you shop and compare plans, you can view:

• Your lowest, highest and average monthly usage
• Your usage breakdown by weekend vs. weekday and night vs. daytime
• Personalized rates and monthly bill estimates from Texas electricity providers
• Plans that best suit your established usage habits

With all of this information, your search for some of the best electricity rates and providers for your unique needs will provide better-fitting results. For example, imagine your data shows that you use electricity a lot at night. You can select the “Weeknight Discount” filter to narrow your search down to plans that offer lower rates at night.

In short, by considering the big picture, you can make a more informed decision about your next electricity plan.

Personalized pricing from electricity providers, at your fingertips

In just three simple steps, you’ll be able to compare electricity rates and find the perfect match to meet your family’s needs, preferences and lifestyle.

Step 1: Help us find your Smart Meter

After you enter your ZIP code on EverythingEnergy.com, you’ll be taken to a page showing electricity plans in your area. In the left navigation of this page, click the “Get Started” button. A screen will appear asking for your service address. This will help us locate your Smart Meter.

Step 2: Obtain an authorization email

To protect your privacy, Smart Meter Texas requires each customer to provide authorization if they want to give a third party (like Everything Energy) to access it. On this screen, simply input your email address and full name as it appears on your electricity bill and select your current provider. After you press ‘Submit,’ check your inbox — you should see an email from Smart Meter Texas.

Step 3: Confirm your authorization

In the email you receive, simply click the Confirm button at the bottom of the email. Then, go back to the Everything Energy screen and let us know that you’ve completed the authorization process by clicking the ‘Permission Granted’ button.

Congratulations! You can now put your own data to work as you shop and compare energy plans from trusted electricity providers in Texas.

Compare electricity rates today

Have you tried our new, personalized approach to shopping for energy? You’re just a few steps away from customized search results. Compare electricity plans and rates, and find the perfect energy match for you. Try it out!

If you are new to Texas, the electricity market here may be puzzling. In deregulated areas of Texas, electricity customers shop for the right plan from a variety of providers in the market. This competitive market was designed to spur innovative electricity plans that help serve customers better.

For newcomers unfamiliar with shopping for electricity, choosing the right plan can be intimidating. We’ve put together this list of terms and details to help you select a plan and a provider with confidence.

How to pick the best electricity plan

Confirm your current contract

Do you already have an electricity contract? Don’t switch electricity providers before confirming your current contract period. If your current plan is not yet up for renewal, you might be subject to a cancellation fee if you switch. Most electricity providers will not charge the cancellation fee if you are moving, but if you switch to another provider before your contract is complete, there will likely be a cancellation fee on your last bill. Check your plan details on your providers website, or look at you electricity bill to see if there’s a contract binding you to your current provider.

How much electricity do you use?

Head over to your account online or check your bill to determine the amount of electricity you consume every month. While your usage will likely be higher at certain times of the year, knowing your range of usage will help you select the best plan while you are shopping. Most electricity websites in Texas show Average Price per kWh at Usage Levels of 500, 1000 and 2000. If you know where your usage sits within those levels, it will be easier to compare plans.

While you are looking at your usage, get a feel for your monthly bill and how it varies at times of the year so you can compare options to what you have now. In Texas, most of us use more electricity in summer, while we are running our air conditioning. But winter usage often depends on whether you have gas or electric heat. It’s worth saying that electricity prices rise and fall during the year due to market conditions. There’s no guarantee that rates when you are shopping will be in the same range as they were last time you signed up.

What term length do you prefer?

Texas electricity market has a huge variety of term durations that differ in price points. If you’re looking for stability in prices, long-term contracts will meet your needs. On the other hand, shorter durations don’t tie you to an extended commitment. The most common plan duration is 12 months, but those that don’t enjoy shopping for electricity often select longer plans, to lock in a price and push off having to shop again. As long as you are getting a rate you like, there’s no real downside to a longer term length. If you are renting a home, it can be handy to match the term length to your rental agreement.

Determine if you want a fixed or variable rate

Most plans in deregulated power market come at either fixed or variable rates. 

Fixed rates are sometimes called Secure or Term. These provide you with a fixed price for the length of your contract. They provide price security, but they usually have a cancellation fee if you switch away before the term is up. The cancellation fee is usually not applicable if you move.

Variable rate plans are sometimes called Flex plans or Month To Month plans. In this arrangement, there is no term length and you can switch providers anytime. However, your electricity rate can change each month. These plans don’t lock you into a commitment, so they are great for consumers that are in a short-term situation.

Plans with extra

Most electricity providers have a wide range of plans. You may see plans with rewards or incentives – like cool technical gadgets or gift certificates or sports memorabilia. These plans may cost a little more, but you might find a great perk – like a signed football jersey.

Some of the perks can be altruistic. Several providers have plans that include making a charitable donation when you sign up. Reliant Energy has a

If these types of plans appeal to you, Everything Energy has filters to help you find plans with an incentive.

Compare electricity plans & providers

You can go to popular Retail Electricity Providers’ sites to shop individually. You’ll get lots of information, but it can be time consuming to shop each provider one at a time. You can also check Texas’ state-run Power to Choose website, and other relevant websites. Since you are here, check out our comparison engine. We partner with reliable, and trusted electricity providers with long histories of great customer service. Everything Energy makes it easy to shop these REPs with a wide diversity of plan selections. We’ve got helpful filters to help you narrow down your search based on plan types and term lengths, so you can see only the plans you are interested in. Finding the best electricity rate for your family has never been easier.

Where ever you choose to shop, look for these details:

Average Price per kWh: this is the all-in price you would pay at a given usage level – sites usually display 500, 1000, 2000. The price factors in the cost of the electricity, delivery charges from the utility company, and taxes and surcharges. Note that the taxes and surcharges can change over time.

Usage Level Selector: As noted above, most sites will display price at a couple usage levels – set it at the level closest to your usage to see pricing most relevant to your home.

Rate Type & Cancellation fee: Once you know which plan type you prefer, you can search and filter based on this information.

Go through the Electricity Facts Label (EFL)

EFL (similar to a Nutrition Facts Label) of each plan that your chosen provider offers allows you to ascertain your consumption’s price point. If you need help understanding a plan’s EFL, we have a guide for you.

What’s the TDSP charge?

While REPs sell you the electricity and bill you for what you use, the local utility company delivers the power over the lines and meters they maintain. The utility companies, also called Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP), own and maintain the poles, wires, and meters. They’re also responsible for reading the meters and reporting usage for each meter to the REP, who does the billing.

The charges from these utilies are passed on to the consumer via their electricity bill, and are known as the TDSP charge. In Texas, the TDSPs have to get permission from the PUC to raise their rates. This does happen occasionally, and when it does, even customers on a contract will see a higher average price on their bill once the new TDSP charge is factored in. The TDSP charge is calculated into the Average Price per kWh.

These TDSP charges apply to all electricity customers in the ulitity area, regardless of which REP the customer is with. So you can’t get out of this fee by changing REPs. The TDSP will usually bill this charge to your REP, who will, in turn, indicate it on your bill without any markup. To view TDSP charges from Texas Utility Providers in deregulated areas, click here to see a great resource from Cirro Energy.

What if I Change my Mind after Signing Up?

You can ask your power provider to cancel your enrollment within three business days from when they delivered the Terms of Service agreement to you, whether you got the deal in the mail or signed it online. You’ll then receive a confirmation to cancel your plan (alongside the information on how to cancel) through the mail.

According to the state directives, your retail electricity provider should allow you between 3 to 14 days to cancel the plan without charging you any penalty. If you do so after this period has elapsed, you may pay the cancellation fee. 

Wrapping Up

You now have an idea on how to shop around for the best electricity plan. If you are ready to shop, it’s as easy as entering your zip code to see the best electricity plans in your area.

An EFL or Electricity Facts Label is a lot like the nutrition label on the back of food products at the grocery store. When you pick up a can of corn and turn it to the back, you can read about everything that the can has inside it. The EFL is the same way. It will tell you everything that is inside a particular electricity plan from a particular provider. The EFL is am important tool to help you compare electricity plans.

What is an EFL?

An Electricity Facts Label is a document that electricity providers are required to provide to the public. It helps to break down every part of a retail energy provider’s electricity plans. This way, you can make sure you understand what’s in a plan and why it matters in terms of what you’ll pay and what you get.

EFLs have standard components so that all companies offering plans provide the same information – even though it might look slightly different. This allow you to easily compare energy plans of all electricity providers. This is specifically standardized in Texas for deregulated areas by the PUCT (Public Utility Commission of Texas).

How does an EFL help you compare electricity plans?

To compare electricity plans, you have to understand the details of each plan you are looking at.

At the top of the EFL you’re going to see information like the name of the REP, the name of the plan, and the date this EFL went into effect.

How to compare the price of electricity plan

In the Pricing Disclosure, you will see a breakdown of all the components of the Average Price. Energy charge is what the REP charges for actual electricity. You may see a base charge or usage charge, which are monthly fees from the REP. If they are included in the price of the plan, they have to be listed here. So, if you don’t see those, they don’t apply to your plan.

The pricing disclosure will also include Delivery Charges from the company that owns the poles & wires in your area. Those utilities charge their fees to the REP, who passes them to consumers each month. These fees are fixed by the PUC, and you can’t change them by looking for a different plan or REP. Delivery charges could be per month, per kWH, or both. You can learn more about TDSP charges from this post.

You’ll also see here the Average Price per kWh, listed at three usage levels: 500, 1000, 2000. This average price factors in all the elements of price, and determines what a customer would pay per kWh at each of those usage levels. That number is an easy way to compare electricity prices across different electricity providers and plans.

On average, Texans used about 1,140 kWh per month in 2019. Remember that your usage probably varies month to month, so make sure to understand your usage over the year and look at the pricing for those levels.

Other Plan Details in the EFL

Towards the bottom of the EFL, you’re going to see details about the plan It’s often in a question format, but not always. You’ll see information related to whether the plan is a fixed rate or variable and the term length, for example.

In other words, you can see whether the plan has its rate change from month to month or whether it’s always the same. You’ll also see how long your contract will go for, called the “contract term.”

There could be data about the “termination fee” if you want to quit your contract before it expires. Many providers may actually waive this fee if you show them that you’re actually moving away.

You’ll see a question related to whether your price can change during the contract period. Usually, the fact sheet will indicate that the answer is “yes,” it can change. The next line indicates why and how your price could change. Even fixed price plans can have price changes if the PUC allows the TDSP to increase their rates, which are factored into the price.

This section of the EFL also includes information on how much renewable energy the plan contains.

Summing Up

The EFL is a very helpful guide when shopping for electricity and we definitely encourage you to review while you are comparing electricity plans. By learning to read the EFL, you understand the exact rates for the electricity plans available in your area, and it will be easy to compare one plan’s rates to the rate from another plan. You’ll be able to see what their tiered plans look like and whether plan A has a lower starting rate for the first tier up to 1000 kWh than plan B. Which one is best for you will depend on how much your household actually uses, so this is important to keep in mind when you’re reading all of these different sheets. Learning to do so will greatly increase your understanding of the situation. If you want to learn more about comparing electricity plans, check out this guide.