THE SHOPPING GUIDE
Look beyond the headline rate.
A few practical checks can help you compare plans more thoughtfully.
| Plan detail | Question to ask |
|---|---|
| Average price | Does the usage level shown match what my home uses? |
| Bill credits | What usage threshold must I meet, and what happens if I miss it? |
| Contract length | Does the term fit my plans for this home or apartment? |
| Early termination | What fee could apply if I leave before the term ends? |
| Service date | Has the provider confirmed the start date I need? |
1. Start with your usage
Find recent bills and compare your monthly kilowatt-hour (kWh) usage across seasons. Apartment and house usage can differ substantially. A price at one usage level may not reflect the price you pay at another.
2. Read the Electricity Facts Label
The EFL summarizes a plan’s pricing, contract term, fees, and other important information. Compare the listed average prices at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh against your likely usage. Check delivery fees, base charges, minimum-use charges, and any bill-credit conditions.
3. Understand the rate structure
Fixed-rate plans generally keep the energy rate stable for the contract term, subject to permitted adjustments in the contract. The total bill is not fixed. Variable-rate plans can change between billing periods. Review the pricing method and how the provider discloses changes.
4. Check the cost of switching
Read your current contract and renewal notice before scheduling a switch. Early termination fees can affect the value of changing plans. Confirm your contract end date, start date, and any applicable exceptions with your provider rather than assuming a fee will be waived.
5. Plan your move
Shop with the exact new address, confirm the provider’s available start dates, and keep the enrollment confirmation. Deposits, eligibility checks, delivery charges, and scheduling requirements may apply. Arrange service at your old address separately.
6. Save your documents
Keep the EFL, Terms of Service, Your Rights as a Customer document, and confirmation. The chosen provider handles your electricity contract and account.
For additional consumer information, visit the Public Utility Commission of Texas consumer resources ↗. This is an independent government resource; we are not affiliated with the commission.
Want to work with your own numbers? Try our electricity cost calculators to calculate an average bill rate, estimate appliance costs, or compare two simple flat-rate structures.
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