Texas Electricity Rates - Compare Providers and Plans

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The state of Texas
Anna Grisham - GridHacker
Written By:
Anna Grisham
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Thad Warren - GridHacker
By:
Thad Warren
On:
December 17, 2024

GridHacker is the fastest and easiest way to find an electricity plan in Texas that fits your home and your budget. Using your historical usage data, we can accurately match you to a plan that meets your energy needs.

We filter out plans with tricks and gimmicks, so you can be confident that you’re getting a fair and transparent electricity rate. With just a few clicks, you will be matched with the plan that’s right for you.

Most Texans live in a deregulated energy market. This means that you have a choice when it comes to your electricity provider. The Texas electricity market allows you to select from various providers. Like your insurance or internet provider, you can find a plan that works for you.

There are many providers to choose from, so you can compare energy plans and pick the one that works best for you.

Don’t worry if this seems a little confusing. Grid Hackers is designed to eliminate the guesswork to get powered up with the perfect plan in minutes.

Texas Electricity Rates for Your Home

This table lists the cheapest electricity rates and residential electricity plans available in the state of Texas today.

What are the average electricity rates in Texas?

Understanding the average electricity rates in Texas can help you make informed decisions about your energy plan. As of 2024, the average residential electricity rate in Texas is around 14.51 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh). This means that the average monthly bill for a typical household is approximately $170.93. However, it’s important to note that rates can vary significantly depending on your location, energy usage, and electricity provider. Most households in Texas pay between 11 and 14 cents per kWh, but rates can range from as low as 11 cents to as high as 25 cents per kWh. By comparing energy plans and understanding your average monthly bill, you can find the best rate for your needs.

Factors Affecting Your Electricity Bill

Several factors can influence your electricity bill in Texas, making it essential to understand what drives your costs. Here are some key factors to consider:

  • Energy Usage: The amount of electricity you consume each month is the primary factor affecting your bill. Higher usage typically results in higher costs.
  • Electricity Rates: The rate you pay per kWh can vary based on your provider, plan, and location. It’s crucial to compare electricity rates to find the best deal.
  • Provider Fees: Some electricity providers may charge additional fees, such as transmission and distribution fees, which can add to your overall bill.
  • Taxes and Surcharges: Depending on your location, you may be subject to various taxes and surcharges on your electricity bill.
  • Seasonal Demand: Electricity demand can fluctuate with the seasons. For example, higher demand during hot summer months can lead to increased electricity costs, while milder winter months may result in lower bills.

By understanding these factors, you can better manage your electricity usage and potentially save money on your energy bills.

Best Business & Commercial Energy Plans in Texas

Small and medium-sized businesses can quickly find the most cost-effective plan and switch 100% online.

Understanding the Electricity Market in Texas

Selecting the best electricity plan in Texas can be a daunting task, but it’s crucial to find a plan that fits your needs and budget. Exploring various Texas energy plans can help you discover customized solutions, including green energy options and flexible contract terms.

Texas electricity rates are impacted by many factors. Supply, demand, and other market conditions all play a part.

Most Texans are familiar with two types of electric companies. Their utility and their supplier/provider.

Choosing the Best Electricity Plan

Selecting the best electricity plan in Texas can be a daunting task, but it’s crucial to find a plan that fits your needs and budget. Here are some tips to help you make the right choice:

  • Determine Your Energy Usage: Start by understanding your average monthly energy usage. This information will help you choose a plan that meets your needs.
  • Compare Plans: Research and compare different electricity plans from various providers. Look for the best rates and terms that suit your requirements.
  • Consider Your Budget: Choose a plan that fits your budget and offers flexible payment options. This will help you manage your energy bills more effectively.
  • Look for Additional Benefits: Some electricity providers offer extra perks, such as rewards programs, green energy options, and excellent customer support. These benefits can add value to your plan.

By following these tips, you can find an electricity plan that not only meets your energy needs but also helps you save money in the long run.

How to Choose Your Best Plan

Choosing the best electricity plan in Texas involves a few simple steps. Here’s a guide to help you make an informed decision:

  1. Determine Your Energy Usage: Review your past energy bills to understand your average monthly energy usage. This will give you a clear idea of what to look for in a plan.
  2. Compare Plans: Research and compare different plans from various electricity providers. Look for the best rates and terms that match your energy usage.
  3. Consider Your Budget: Choose a plan that fits your budget and offers flexible payment options. This will help you manage your energy bills more effectively.
  4. Look for Additional Benefits: Some providers offer additional benefits, such as rewards programs, green energy options, and excellent customer support. These perks can add value to your plan.
  5. Read Reviews: Check online reviews from other customers to get an idea of the provider’s customer service and reliability. This can help you make a more informed decision.

By following these steps, you can find an electricity plan that suits your needs and helps you save money on your energy bills.

Texas Electricity Providers

If you are in a deregulated area like Dallas or Houston, you may recognize names like Reliant Energy or TXU Energy. These are examples of Texas electricity providers, otherwise known as suppliers.

In most cases, this is the company that you pay your electric bill to.

In the state of Texas, a Retail Electricity Provider (REP) is a company that sells electricity to consumers. REPs are licensed by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and are responsible for purchasing electricity from the wholesale electricity market and selling it to customers. REPs offer a variety of electricity plans and services to residential, commercial, and industrial customers in Texas.

Energy Providers in Texas

There are over 100 licensed energy providers in Texas. We won't list them all, but here are some of the largest electricity providers.

View all Texas electricity companies here.

Electric Utility Companies in Texas

An electric utility company in the state of Texas is a company that is responsible for generating, transmitting, and distributing electricity to customers within a specific service area.

These companies, also known as incumbent electric utilities, are regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and are required to provide reliable and affordable electricity to customers within their service territory. The PUC of Texas also oversees ERCOT, the Electric Reliability Council of Texas.

Electric utilities in Texas include companies such as AEP Texas, CenterPoint Energy, Oncor Electric Delivery, and Texas-New Mexico Power. These companies are responsible for maintaining the electricity grid and delivering electricity to homes and businesses through a network of power lines and other electrical infrastructure.

AEP Texas North/Central

AEP Texas serves customers in the northern and central regions of Texas. This includes Abilene, San Angelo, and Corpus Christi.

CenterPoint Energy

CenterPoint Energy serves customers in south and southeast Texas mostly around the Houston metro area. This includes Houston, Katy, and Tomball.

Oncor

Oncor is the largest electric utility in Texas and serves various areas around the state. Their service territory includes Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Plano, Arlington, Waco, Midland, Odessa, Tyler, and Wichita Falls.

Texas-New Mexico Power

Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP) services North, South, and West Texas. North Texas service areas include Lewisville, Gatesville, and Glen Rose. Southern service areas include Texas City, League City, and Friendswood. Western service areas include Pecos and Fort Stockton.

Sharyland

In 2017 Oncor acquired the retail portion of Sharyland Utilities. Since 2018 Oncor is the acting utility provider for customers in the Sharyland service area. 

How to Switch Electricity Providers in Texas

Switching electricity providers in Texas can be a quick and easy process with GridHacker, allowing you to make the switch in less than 5 minutes. Here's how:

1. Check for early termination fees

First, check for early termination fees in your current plan, as these can sometimes amount to several hundred dollars. If your plan is expiring, make sure to align the start date of your new plan with the end date of your old one.

2. Find your energy usage

Next, find your energy usage, which is the most significant factor affecting your rate. Many plans advertise rates for specific (often small) amounts of energy usage, but the actual rate for your home or business might be much higher. You can either use GridHacker’s advanced tool to find your historical usage or calculate your average monthly usage based on past kWh figures found on your monthly electricity bill.

3. Compare electricity rates and providers

You can find the best electricity rates in Texas by entering your zip code here. There are hundreds of energy plans available, so before you switch you should look at more than just the rate. Check the electricity facts label, or "EFL" for short.

This document has all the details of the contract summarized in an easy-to-read format. You'll find things like early termination fees and whether the plan has a variable rate or is a fixed-rate plan. We almost always recommend fixed-rate plans because they protect you from pricing changes that cause your bill to skyrocket month-to-month.

4. Make the Switch

GridHacker makes it easy to pull your home's energy usage to match you with a plan. You can switch electric companies at any time, but it's usually better to do so when market rates are lower than your current contract. Review your contract for rates, terms, and penalties before switching providers. When you're ready to switch, have a recent electric bill on hand and set aside a few minutes to compare rates with GridHacker.

Be mindful of contract stipulations such as length of commitment, termination fees, supply price per kilowatt-hour (kWh), and auto-renewal when switching providers. Ask yourself questions about contract length, payment options, contract expiration, and penalties for breaking the contract. By taking these factors into account, you can make the right decision when switching electric companies.

5.Enjoy the Savings

After switching, you can enjoy the benefits of your new plan, including potential savings on your electricity bills. Keep an eye on your usage and market rates to ensure you're always getting the best deal.

Switching electricity providers in Texas doesn't have to be a hassle. With GridHacker, you can find the perfect plan and make the switch in just a few minutes. Start saving today!

Moving to Texas?

If you're relocating to a deregulated area in Texas, you'll need to choose your own electricity provider. Don't worry, it's a quick and easy process with GridHacker. Even if you don't have past usage data for your new home, you can estimate your usage to find a plan that suits your needs. Simply enter your ZIP code on GridHacker to start comparing providers and plans, and you'll be set up in no time.

Renewable Energy Plans in Texas

Even if you aren't ready to invest in solar panels you can still power your home with green energy by enrolling in a renewable energy plan. There are dozens of Texas energy providers that offer renewable energy plans.

When you sign up for a renewable energy plan you are effectively powering your home with green energy. Your renewable energy electricity plan allows your energy provider to buy green energy on the wholesale market.

The more people that buy green energy plans the more cost-effective it is for Texas electric companies to generate power from renewable sources like solar and wind.

Most electricity in Texas is generated from natural gas facilities, but renewable generation is increasing. As of 2023 renewables are only second to natural gas.

Are Solar Panels Worth It In Texas?

Solar panels can be a fantastic investment in Texas, thanks to the state’s abundant sunshine. Here are some benefits of installing solar panels:

  • Save Money: Solar panels can significantly reduce your energy bills by generating free electricity from the sun.
  • Increase Property Value: Homes with solar panels often have higher property values and appeal to potential buyers.
  • Reduce Carbon Footprint: Solar panels are a renewable energy source that helps reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a sustainable future.
  • Low Maintenance: Solar panels require minimal maintenance and can last for up to 30 years or more.

However, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:

  • High Upfront Cost: Installing solar panels can be expensive, although the cost has decreased over the years.
  • Intermittent Energy Source: Solar panels generate electricity only during daylight hours, which means you may still need to rely on traditional energy sources during nighttime or periods of low sunlight.
  • Space Requirements: Solar panels require a significant amount of space, which can be a challenge for homes with limited roof space or obstructed sunlight.

Overall, solar panels can be a great investment in Texas, but it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons and consider your individual circumstances before making a decision. By doing so, you can determine if solar panels are the right choice for your home and start saving money on your energy bills while contributing to a greener future.

Frequently Asked Questions about Texas Electricity

Texas energy rates fluctuate daily based on market conditions. So there's not always a best time of year to sign up for a Texas energy plan. Sometimes electricity prices are cheaper in the winter than the summer, sometimes not. It is a good idea to start comparing rates several months before you need to enroll in a plan so you can gauge the market.

Texas electricity rates are set by energy providers. Your energy provider buys electricity on the wholesale market and then resells it to you with a markup - that's how they make money. Their electricity prices are mostly determined by current electricity rates and what they believe electricity rates will be in the future.

In Texas, electricity rates can fluctuate based on several factors including location, season, and market conditions. As of 2024, a good rate per kWh in Texas typically ranges from 8 to 12 cents for residential customers. However, it's important to note that this is just a general guideline and actual rates may vary.

If you receive an electricity bill that's significantly higher than average you should check your usage for that month. Sometimes it could be as simple as you ran your A/C more than usual. If your usage didn't change then you should check your electricity rate.

If your rate changed it may explain the increase. If your rate is the same then you should look through the add-on fees. Sometimes your utility or provider will add charges like services fees or transmission fees.

It's difficult to predict if Texas electricity rates will go down in 2024. It depends on things like natural gas prices, how much renewable energy we're using, and changes in market demand. While it’s possible that rates could go down, they might also remain stable or increase. We recommend regularly comparing electricity plans with GridHacker to secure the best deal.