Learn
Electricity shopping, explained
Short reads on how Texas electricity plans are priced, and how we turn that into one clear answer for your home.
Electricity shopping, simplified
Why doesn't the advertised electricity rate match my bill?
The advertised rate fits one usage level, and your home uses a different amount every month.
Read the articleUnderstanding bill credits
Are bill-credit electricity plans worth it?
A bill credit only pays in months you reach its usage level, so the answer depends on your home.
Read the articleWhy Power Rate Check exists
How does Power Rate Check pick one plan?
We rank the plans for your ZIP by estimated yearly cost for your home, then lead with one.
Read the articleMeet Bill X-Ray
Should I switch electricity plans before my contract ends?
Upload your bill, and we estimate whether switching now or waiting will likely cost you less.
Read the articleContract ending
My electricity contract is ending. What should I do?
Shop before your end date, and switch in the last 14 days with no cancellation fee.
Read the articleMoving to Texas
How do I set up electricity when I move to Texas?
In many Texas cities you choose the company that sells you power, and here is how to start.
Read the articleThe Electricity Facts Label
How do I read an Electricity Facts Label?
Every Texas plan has a label with three prices, and the one that matters depends on your home.
Read the articleSummer bills
Why is my summer electric bill so high?
Texas power prices barely move in summer, but the average home's usage and bill roughly double.
Read the articlePlan fees
What is a minimum-usage fee on a Texas electricity plan?
Some Texas plans charge extra in months you use less electricity, and here is how to spot one.
Read the articleAustin and San Antonio
Why can't Austin or San Antonio homes choose a plan?
Austin and San Antonio get power from a city-owned utility, so there are no retail plans to compare.
Read the articleBill jumped
Why did my electric bill jump this month?
Usually you used more power. If not, look for a missed credit, an expired contract or higher delivery charges.
Read the articleNo deposit
Which Texas light companies need no deposit?
Any company will skip it if your credit checks out, and prepaid plans never charge one.
Read the articleESI ID
What is an ESI ID, and how do I find mine?
The number that identifies your electric meter. Look yours up by address, or find it on your bill.
Read the articleDelivery charges
What is the TDU delivery charge on my Texas bill?
What each Texas utility charges to deliver power, in one dated table, and why the charge changes.
Read the articleAverage bill
What is a normal electric bill in Texas?
About $164 a month on average, from about $100 for an apartment to $244 for a big house.
Read the article