Project Solar makes going solar simple, affordable, and transparent.
By cutting out salespeople and unnecessary commissions, they offer some of the lowest prices on the market.
With their AI-powered tool, you can get a personalized solar quote in just 5 minutes—there are no hidden fees or pushy sales tactics, just upfront pricing.
Key Takeaways
Project Solar offers some of the lowest prices in the U.S. by eliminating salespeople and middlemen.
Whether you want a complete installation or a DIY kit, Project Solar provides options that suit any budget.
Here’s what makes Project Solar a standout choice for homeowners:
No Salespeople: Transparent, upfront pricing without the pressure.
Instant Quotes: Their AI-powered tool delivers a custom solar estimate in 5 minutes.
Lowest Price in America: Project Solar cuts out the middleman and offers some of the lowest solar panel prices in the U.S.
Top-Quality Equipment: They install black-on-black monocrystalline panels and Enphase microinverters for superior performance.
25-Year Warranty: Comprehensive coverage, including production guarantees and workmanship protection.
How It Works
Project Solar simplifies the process:
Get a Free Quote: Get a custom quote in 5 minutes with their AI-powered tool.
Choose Your Plan: Full installation, DIY kit, or PPA—there’s an option for everyone.
Installation: Project Solar handles everything or guides you through DIY installation.
Start Saving: Your solar system reduces your energy bills from day one.
Project Solar Reviews
“The quote process was quick and easy, and I’m already saving money.” — Jeremy, Arizona
“Transparent pricing and no hidden fees—highly recommend Project Solar.” — Melissa, California
“The DIY kit saved me even more. Great support throughout.” — Brian, Texas
Get Your Free Solar Quote
If you are considering solar panels for your home, Project Solar’s transparent pricing, high-quality equipment, and DIY options make them attractive to many homeowners.
In just 5 minutes, you can get a transparent quote with no pressure and no strings attached. It’s that simple.
If you’re considering Project Solar, these insights should help clarify its process and benefits.
Is Project Solar legit?
Yes, Project Solar is legit. They offer competitive solar solutions with high-efficiency products and excellent warranties.
How does the DIY option work?
Project Solar offers a popular DIY option that allows homeowners to install their solar system and save even more. This option is handy for those in areas where local installers may not be available. The process includes finalizing a design, obtaining necessary permits, and receiving all equipment directly to your home. Installation support is available by phone, and while most homeowners can handle most of the work, you might need an electrician for the final connection to the grid.
What equipment does Project Solar use?
Project Solar uses high-quality equipment for all its installations. This includes black-on-black monocrystalline panels, known for their aesthetic and performance advantages. They also use Enphase microinverters, which are known for efficiency and reliability. They offer batteries like the Tesla Powerwall 3 for those interested in energy storage. Their systems include IronRidge racking and mounting components, ensuring a secure and long-lasting setup.
Will solar work during a power outage?
Solar panels alone do not provide power during an outage unless you have a battery backup system. This is to protect utility workers from electrical back feed. If you want to maintain power during an outage, Project Solar offers battery options like the Enphase IQ Batteries or Tesla Powerwall, which can store energy for later use.
What is the maintenance like for a solar system?
Solar panels require little to no maintenance over their 25- to 35-year lifespan. The tempered glass used in the panels is highly durable, and in most cases, regular cleaning is unnecessary. If you encounter issues, Project Solar Systems has comprehensive warranties covering the equipment and workmanship for up to 25 years.
What is net metering?
Net metering is a system in which your utility company credits you for the extra electricity your solar panels produce. With net metering, any excess energy is sent back to the grid, and you only pay for the electricity you use beyond what your panels generate. Project Solar customers can benefit from this, depending on local policies, which vary by state.
Get Help Finding Your Best Plan
Call us at 855-441-3030 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
After a decade in the Texas energy market, I’ve observed a consistent pattern: fall offers the best electricity rates.
The shoulder season brings milder weather and lower electricity demand, making fall and spring the best times to lock in competitive fixed-rate electricity plans.
Most people overlook this, but shopping plans in autumn could save significant money on your bill.
Here’s what you need to know to take advantage of this seasonal opportunity.
What is the Shoulder Season?
It’s fall and spring when the weather’s decent.
No one’s cranking the AC or heater, so electricity demand drops.
That means cheaper rates for you.
Why Fall Rates Are Lower
Summer’s over. The grid’s not stressed.
Providers have excess power to sell. The result?
They slash prices to get your business, offering you a window to lock in lower rates.
Post-Summer Market Reality
As soon as that last 100-degree day hits, demand plummets, and rates usually follow.
But watch out—natural gas prices play a big role here.
For example, when gas prices spiked in 2022, electricity rates surged, even in the fall. And don’t forget, a harsh winter forecast can still mess with the market.
Lock In Now or Pay Later
Fall is your golden ticket to a fixed-rate plan.
Lock in a low rate now, and you’re set for winter, when prices typically skyrocket.
Switching from a variable-rate plan (or a holdover rate) could save you hundreds of dollars annually.
If you stay on a variable rate, prepare for bill shock when winter hits.
Beware the Odd-Term Trap
Here’s an insider secret: those 3, 7, or 9-month plans on Power to Choose?
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
Navigating Texas’s deregulated electricity market can be challenging for consumers.
With over 130 Retail Electric Providers (REPs) offering a multitude of plans, many Texans may unknowingly choose options that lead to higher electricity bills than necessary.
This white paper presents an in-depth analysis conducted by Compare Power, highlighting significant discrepancies between advertised electricity rates and the actual costs incurred by consumers.
By modeling usage data across various consumption levels, we demonstrate how selecting a plan that aligns with actual usage patterns can result in substantial annual savings.
We also introduce Compare Power’s innovative solution, Live Link™, designed to help consumers make informed decisions and reduce their electricity expenses.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Since the deregulation of the Texas electricity market in 2002, residents have had the freedom to choose their electricity providers.
While this was intended to foster competition and lower prices, the abundance of options has made it challenging for consumers to identify the most cost-effective plans for their needs.
The complexity of electricity plans and confusing rate structures often lead to consumers overpaying for electricity.
Background
The Texas Electricity Market Landscape
The deregulation allowed consumers to select from various REPs, breaking up regional utility monopolies.
As of 2024, more than 130 REPs operate in Texas, offering hundreds of plans through direct sales and comparison websites.
While beneficial in theory, this variety has introduced complexities that make it difficult for consumers to navigate the market effectively.
These labels help consumers compare plans by outlining key terms, rates, and fees.
However, the increasing complexity of plan structures, including tiered rates and conditional credits, has diminished the effectiveness of EFLs in aiding consumer decision-making.
Problem Statement
The rise of intricate plan structures—such as free nights and weekends, bill credits, and tiered pricing—has made it challenging for consumers to compare electricity plans accurately.
Many of these plans feature complex rate structures that can obscure the true cost of electricity.
Relying solely on advertised rates often leads consumers to select plans with higher annual costs, sometimes hundreds or thousands of dollars.
Objectives
Our study aims to:
Analyze Actual Costs: Based on modeled usage data, determine consumers’ true cost for advertised electricity plans.
Compare Advertised and Actual Costs: Assess how plans advertised as cheapest at specific usage points compare to other popular plans when actual consumption is considered.
Evaluate Savings Potential: Identify the potential savings consumers can achieve by selecting plans that match their actual electricity usage patterns, using tools like Live Link™.
Methodology
Data Modeling
We modeled electricity usage for seven consumption levels representative of different household types:
500 kWh per month
750 kWh per month
1,000 kWh per month
1,174 kWh per month (average usage in Texas)
1,500 kWh per month
2,000 kWh per month
3,000 kWh per month
To account for seasonal variations, we applied weather-adjusted monthly multipliers based on historical usage patterns:
Month
Multiplier
January
1.35
February
1.10
March
0.80
April
0.70
May
0.85
June
1.20
July
1.40
August
1.35
September
1.00
October
0.75
November
0.95
December
1.30
These multipliers adjust base monthly usage to reflect typical seasonal consumption in Texas.
Plan Selection
We analyzed seven electricity plans chosen based on their market prominence and advertised rates at specific usage levels:
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23 (identified as the most cost-effective plan across all usage levels)
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
Types of Plans Analyzed
We focused on three main types of electricity plans:
Fixed-Rate Plans: Offer a consistent rate per kilowatt-hour (kWh) throughout the contract period.
Free Nights and Weekends Plans: Provide different rates or free electricity during designated off-peak hours or days.
Bill Credit Plans: Offer credits on the bill when certain usage thresholds are met, significantly affecting the average rate per kWh.
Cost Calculation
For each plan and usage level, we calculated the total annual cost by incorporating all elements of the rate structure:
Energy Charges: Cost per kWh consumed.
Base Charges: Fixed monthly fees.
Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP) Charges: Fees set by the local utility for delivering electricity.
Credits and Discounts: Any bill credits or discounts applied when specific conditions are met.
This approach ensured that cost comparisons reflected the true financial impact on consumers, not just the advertised rates.
Key Findings
1. Discrepancy Between Advertised and Actual Costs
Significant Differences: Plans advertised as the “cheapest” at specific usage levels often resulted in higher annual costs when actual consumption patterns were applied.
Up to 40% More Expensive: Some advertised cheapest plans cost consumers up to 40% more annually than the most cost-effective plan identified in our analysis.
2. Impact of Usage Patterns and Seasonal Variations
Variable Costs: Electricity costs vary significantly based on individual usage patterns and seasonal changes.
Plan Performance Fluctuations: Certain plans performed well during specific months but were less cost-effective over the entire year due to fluctuations in consumption.
3. Potential Savings for Consumers
Substantial Savings: By choosing plans that align with their actual usage, consumers could save between 6% and 40% annually.
High-Usage Households: By selecting the right plan, households using around 3,000 kWh monthly could save over $3,700 annually.
4. Complexity of Plan Structures
Consumer Challenges: Complex rate structures make comparing options and identifying the most cost-effective plan difficult.
An advantage to Providers: This complexity can obscure the true cost of plans, potentially benefiting electricity providers over consumers.
Detailed Savings Analysis
Below is a summary of potential annual savings when choosing the most cost-effective plan (Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23) compared to other plans at various usage levels.
Savings at 500 kWh Average Monthly Usage
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$1,054.72
–
–
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$1,550.16
$495.44
31.96%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$1,550.16
$495.44
31.96%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$1,395.22
$340.50
24.40%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$1,331.87
$277.15
20.81%
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$1,325.70
$270.98
20.44%
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$1,448.16
$393.44
27.17%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $378.83 (26.12% less on average)
Savings at 750 kWh Average Monthly Usage
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$1,426.41
–
–
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$2,167.50
$741.09
34.19%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$2,167.50
$741.09
34.19%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$1,899.66
$473.25
24.91%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$1,810.22
$383.81
21.20%
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$1,794.82
$368.41
20.53%
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$2,023.50
$597.09
29.51%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $550.79 (27.42% less on average)
Savings at 1000 kWh Average Monthly Usage
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$1,948.57
–
–
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$2,845.45
$896.88
31.52%
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$2,700.65
$752.08
27.85%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$2,493.57
$545.00
21.86%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$2,305.27
$356.70
15.47%
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$2,174.45
$225.88
10.39%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$2,174.45
$225.88
10.39%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $500.40 (19.58% less on average)
Savings at 1174 kWh Average Monthly Usage (Average Texan)
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$2,150.90
–
–
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$3,191.48
$1,040.58
32.60%
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$3,128.18
$977.28
31.24%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$2,794.85
$643.95
23.04%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$2,576.10
$425.20
16.51%
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$2,439.38
$288.48
11.83%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$2,439.38
$288.48
11.83%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $610.66 (21.18% less on average)
Savings at 1500 kWh Average Monthly Usage
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$2,833.39
–
–
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$4,325.59
$1,492.20
34.50%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$3,655.26
$821.87
22.48%
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$3,601.59
$768.20
21.33%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$3,305.34
$471.95
14.28%
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$3,029.72
$196.33
6.48%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$3,029.72
$196.33
6.48%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $657.81 (17.59% less on average)
Savings at 2000 kWh Average Monthly Usage
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$3,721.11
–
–
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$5,950.53
$2,229.42
37.46%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$4,816.95
$1,095.84
22.75%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$4,530.40
$809.29
17.86%
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$4,522.68
$801.57
17.72%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$4,522.68
$801.57
17.72%
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$4,335.18
$614.07
14.16%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $1,058.63 (21.28% less on average)
Savings at 3000 kWh Average Monthly Usage (Large Home)
Plan
Annual Cost
Savings with Best Plan
Savings (%)
Rhythm Energy Simply Green 23
$5,496.58
–
–
Frontier Utilities Saver Value 12
$9,200.43
$3,703.85
40.26%
Gexa Energy Eco Saver Plus 12
$7,508.63
$2,012.05
26.80%
Frontier Utilities Saver Plus 12
$7,508.63
$2,012.05
26.80%
TXU Energy Live Your Free 12
$7,140.37
$1,643.79
23.02%
4Change Energy Cash Money 12
$6,980.51
$1,483.93
21.26%
Frontier Utilities Saver Premium 12
$6,252.38
$755.80
12.09%
Average Savings with Best Plan: $1,935.25 (25.04% less on average)
Implications for Texas Consumers
1. Misleading Advertised Rates
Consumers may be misled by advertised rates that seem attractive but don’t reflect actual costs based on their usage patterns. Relying solely on these rates can lead to substantial overpayment.
2. Importance of Personalized Plan Selection
Selecting an electricity plan that matches one’s actual usage pattern is crucial for maximizing savings. Personalized analysis is essential to identify the most cost-effective options.
3. Need for Comprehensive Comparison Tools
There’s a clear need for tools that analyze real usage data and simplify comparing complex electricity plans, enabling consumers to make informed decisions.
4. Regulatory Considerations
The complexity of plan offerings may require enhanced regulatory oversight to ensure transparency and protect consumer interests. Simplifying EFLs and standardizing plan presentations could help in this effort.
Compare Power’s Solution: Live Link
Introduction to Live Link
Compare Power has developed Live Link™, a tool designed to empower consumers by providing personalized electricity plan recommendations based on their historical usage data.
How Live Link Works
Smart Meter Integration: Live Link securely connects to a consumer’s smart meter, accessing detailed usage data while ensuring privacy.
Personalized Analysis: The tool analyzes the consumer’s unique consumption patterns, considering daily and seasonal variations.
Customized Plan Recommendations: Live Link compares available electricity plans, calculating the expected annual cost for each based on the consumer’s actual usage.
Accurate Cost Estimates: Provides realistic cost expectations, eliminating surprises on electricity bills.
Time Savings: Simplifies the plan selection process, saving consumers time.
Financial Savings: Helps identify plans that offer significant annual savings based on usage.
Conclusion
The Texas deregulated electricity market offers consumers the freedom to choose, but with that freedom comes the challenge of navigating a complex array of plans and pricing structures.
This study highlights how consumers can incur unnecessary costs when relying solely on advertised rates and underscores the importance of selecting plans that align with actual usage patterns.
Live Link™ addresses this challenge using real usage data to provide personalized, transparent plan comparisons.
By empowering consumers with accurate information and simplifying the selection process, Live Link™enables Texans to make informed decisions that can lead to substantial savings.
Compare Power remains committed to innovation and consumer advocacy as the electricity market continues to evolve.
We strive to bring clarity and transparency to energy choices in Texas, ensuring that every Texan has access to the tools and information necessary to make the best decisions for their household’s energy needs.
Note: All data and findings presented in this report are based on modeled usage patterns and the analysis of available electricity plans as of September 4, 2024. Actual savings may vary based on individual circumstances and changes in market offerings.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
Get Help Finding Your Best Plan
Call us at 855-441-3030 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
When shopping for an electricity plan, it’s easy to focus on the advertised rates you see on provider websites or comparison marketplaces like Power to Choose.
But here’s the truth: those rates only tell part of the story.
The true cost of your electricity plan is based on your home’s unique electricity usage patterns, not just the numbers you see advertised.
To avoid overpaying, it’s important to understand how your real usage interacts with each plan’s pricing formula.
Let’s explore what a plan’s true cost means for you and how to find it.
Key Takeaways
Advertised rates only apply to exact usage levels: Small changes in your electricity usage can lead to significantly higher costs than the advertised rates suggest.
Providers often use advertised rates to make plans seem cheaper: While these rates may look appealing, they don’t reflect what most households actually use each month, leading to unexpected bills.
Find the true cost of each plan: Live Link™ lets you see the real price based on your actual usage, helping you avoid pricing traps and save money.
Table of Contents
What Is a Plan’s True Cost?
The true cost of an electricity plan is the actual price you’ll pay over time based on your monthly electricity usage.
It factors in all the variables that affect your bill, not just the prices advertised for 500 kWh, 1,000 kWh, or 2,000 kWh of usage.
While the advertised rate might give you an idea of what you’ll pay at a specific usage point, the true cost reflects what you’ll pay as your energy consumption fluctuates throughout the year.
Advertised Rates Don’t Tell the Full Story
The advertised ratesyou see are based on exact usage scenarios that often don’t match your actual consumption.
For example, you might see a plan offering 10.9 cents per kWh at 1,000 kWh, but if your usage is 857 kWh in one month and 1,274 kWh in another, you’ll likely end up paying something different than that advertised rate.
Here’s why:
Advertised rates are static: They only apply to those exact usage points, which means they don’t account for how your energy needs change over time.
Your usage is dynamic: Energy consumption fluctuates based on the weather, household activities, and lifestyle changes. Unless your usage matches the exact advertised usage every month (which is rare), the advertised rate won’t reflect your actual costs.
To understand what you’re paying, you must look at the true cost.
How to Calculate a Plan’s True Cost
Calculating a plan’s true cost might sound complicated, but it can be done manually with some effort, or you can simplify the process with Live Link™.
Here’s how to calculate it manually:
Review Your Past Usage: Look at your electricity bills for the past 12 months. This gives you a picture of your energy use throughout the year, including high-usage months (like summer) and low-usage months.
Factor in All Plan Costs: Don’t stop at the advertised rate. Consider base charges, TDU delivery fees, and any pricing tiers. Hidden fees can quickly add up, making a plan more expensive than it initially seems.
Create a Spreadsheet: To get a full picture of each plan, you’ll need to build a spreadsheet and calculate the costs for each month based on your past usage. This means plugging in your monthly usage and applying the charges from the Electricity Facts Label(EFL) for each plan. You’ll also need to factor in delivery charges, base fees, and bill credits. If you’re interested in doing it manually, check out our step-by-step guide here: How to Manually Calculate Electric Plan Costs.
Or, save yourself the time and effort:
Use Live Link™ to instantly calculate the true cost of any electricity plan.
Live Link™ automatically pulls your real usage data, applies the charges for the plan, and shows you what you’ll actually pay—without needing to build a spreadsheet or do any manual calculations.
Both options work, but Live Link™ can save you hours of manual work and help you find the right plan faster.
Why Knowing a Plan’s True Cost Matters
Understanding a plan’s true cost is the key to avoiding overpaying for electricity.
You must choose a plan that fits your needs and budget, determining the price based on your actual consumption patterns rather than advertised rates.
Here’s why it’s so important:
Predictable Bills: When you understand a plan’s true cost, your bill has fewer surprises. You’ll know what to expect, even when your usage fluctuates.
Better Decision Making: Knowing a plan’s true cost means you can compare competing offers more accurately and make smarter decisions about which one is best for your home.
Long-Term Savings: Choosing a plan based on its true cost—instead of chasing the lowest advertised rate—can save you hundreds of dollars over the course of a year.
Don’t Rely on Advertised Rates Alone
Choosing an electricity plan based solely on the advertised rate can lead to higher bills and unexpected charges.
That’s why it’s so important to understand your true cost—the amount you’ll actually pay based on your unique energy consumption patterns.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
Get Help Finding Your Best Plan
Call us at 855-441-3030 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
So, you’re shopping around for an electricity plan in Texas, and you see rates displayed on provider websites, ads, and shopping marketplaces.
But what do those rates really mean, and is that what you’ll actually pay?
These rates, called advertised rates, are required by law and are based on specific monthly usage levels: 500 kWh, 1,000 kWh, and 2,000 kWh.
At first glance, it might seem like an easy way to compare plans — but here’s the catch: almost no one uses exactly 500, 1,000, or 2,000 kWh of electricity each month.
Key Takeaways
Advertised rates can be misleading: These rates only apply at specific usage levels (500, 1,000, or 2,000 kWh), meaning your actual cost can be much higher if your usage doesn’t match exactly.
Most plans hide the true cost: Providers design plans to look appealing at certain usage points, but the real cost of the plan often spikes if your usage fluctuates even slightly.
Find your true cost: Live Link™ helps you avoid misleading rates and shows you plans’ real cost based on your energy use.
Table of Contents
What Are Advertised Electricity Rates?
Advertised rates are the prices energy providers are required to display for their plans, based on the specific usage points mentioned above.
They’re designed to help you compare plans easily, but the truth is, these rates only reflect what you’ll pay if your monthly usage is exactly at those points.
Since almost no one uses exactly 500, 1,000, or 2,000 kWh every month, the advertised rate that caught your attention might not be what you end up paying.
Let me explain why these rates can be misleading and how they affect your electricity bill.
How Advertised Rates Can Be Misleading
Electricity providers in Texas are required to display rates for 500 kWh, 1,000 kWh, and 2,000 kWh of monthly usage, pulled directly from each plan’s Electricity Facts Label (EFL).
While this helps consumers quickly compare plans, these rates only apply if you use exactly those amounts.
For example, a plan may advertise 10.9 cents per kWh at 1,000 kWh, but if your usage is 999 kWh or 1,001 kWh, your cost could increase significantly.
Providers often design their plans to look cheap at these specific usage points, but the price per kWh can spike if your usage falls outside those exact numbers, leaving you with a much higher bill than expected.
Since most people’s usage fluctuates month to month, it’s easy to get caught off guard.
Why Your Usage Fluctuates
Your electricity consumption varies depending on the time of year, how many people are in your home, and even how much time you spend there.
In the summer, your usage might spike because of air conditioning.
In the winter, it could dip if you don’t need as much heat or energy.
Other factors, like guests or lifestyle changes, can also impact how much electricity you use each month.
Because your usage fluctuates, advertised rates rarely reflect what you’ll actually pay on your electricity bill.
How We Fixed the Problem
We built Compare Power to solve this exact problem.
Unlike other comparison websites, Compare Power goes beyond showing you the advertised rates at 500 kWh, 1,000 kWh, or 2,000 kWh.
Instead, we factor in your actual usage history to show you the true cost of a plan over time.
This way, you can see what you’ll really pay, even when your usage fluctuates.
The Historical Usage Calculator
Years ago, we introduced the Historical Usage Calculator, which lets you input your past electricity usage to see how different plans would impact your costs over the course of a year.
It smooths out those spikes and dips in your usage and reveals the true cost of a plan based on your actual consumption patterns.
By factoring in your high-usage months (like those hot Texas summers) and lower-usage periods, you can avoid plans that seem affordable at first but end up costing you more.
Millions of Texans have used Compare Power to make smarter, more informed electricity decisions.
With over 72,000 5-star reviews, the Historical Usage Calculator has helped countless Texans save on their bills.
Instead of manually entering your past usage, Live Link™ automatically pulls your real usage data from your Transmission and Distribution Utility(TDU).
Here’s how Live Link™ simplifies the process:
No manual entry: Your usage data is pulled directly from your TDU.
Accurate comparisons: We use your real usage history to calculate the actual cost of electricity plans available to you.
Instant results: With just a few clicks, you’ll see which plans are truly the best fit for your household’s energy consumption.
Live Link™ takes the guesswork out of finding the right plan for your home.
How to Avoid Advertised Rate Traps
So, how do you avoid falling into these traps? The key is not to rely solely on the rate advertised at 1,000 kWh or any other fixed point.
Instead, focus on how a plan works across a full year of usage.
Here’s what you can do:
Look for flat-rate plans: These plans offer consistent pricing across different usage levels, so you’ll have fewer surprises even when your usage fluctuates.
Know your usage: You can log into your electricity provider’s dashboard, use Smart Meter Texas for 15-minute interval data, or use Live Link™ to pull your real usage data for accurate comparisons automatically.
Use Live Link™: Live Link™ lets you compare plans based on your actual consumption rather than relying on advertised rates that may not apply to you.
Don’t Be Fooled by Advertised Rates
Advertised rates are only a small part of the story when it comes to choosing the right electricity plan.
Very few people use exactly 1,000 kWh every month, and plans that seem cheap at that usage level can be far more expensive when your actual usage is considered.
Live Link™ gives you the full picture of each plan’s cost, helping you find the best deal for your home without any surprises.
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Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
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Call us at 855-441-3030 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Sometimes, staying in your current electricity contract could cost you more than paying the Early Termination Fee (ETF) and switching to a better plan.
In Texas’ ever-changing electricity market, rates can shift significantly, and sticking with an outdated plan could mean paying more than necessary.
So, how do you know if paying the ETF and switching is smarter?
Here’s a simple way to answer that question without overwhelming math.
Key Takeaways
Paying the ETF may save you more than staying in your current plan. Use Live Link™ to find better deals instantly.
Live Link™ pulls actual usage data, accurately comparing plans in seconds without manual input.
If your savings after subtracting the ETF are positive, switching plans is a smart financial move.
Table of Contents
1. Use Live Link™ to Find the Best Deals
Rather than guessing or spending time manually gathering your electricity usage data, Live Link™ simplifies the process.
It pulls your electricity usage directly from your current provider, allowing you to compare plans matching your usage patterns in seconds.
With Live Link™, you can instantly see if switching to a new plan will save you money—and how much you can expect to save over time.
There is no need to dig out old bills or make rough estimates. It’s quick, easy, and based on real data.
2. Compare Annual Costs
Once you’ve used Live Link™ to pull up your options, compare the annual cost of your current plan versus the new plan you’re considering:
Current Plan: Log in to your provider’s dashboard to view the past 12 months of bills. If you don’t have a full year’s worth of data, you can estimate the remaining months based on past usage patterns. Look at similar months from last year, especially for seasonal changes like summer or winter, when electricity usage may vary.
New Plan: Use Live Link™ to see the projected annual cost of a new plan based on your actual usage.
3. Factor in the ETF
Next, look at your current contract’s Early Termination Fee (ETF). Most providers in Texas charge this fee if you break the contract early, but the savings from switching might still outweigh the cost.
Potential Savings: Subtract the new plan’s annual cost from your current plan’s yearly cost to determine how much you could save.
Subtract the ETF: To ensure the switch is financially worthwhile, subtract your Early Termination Fee (ETF) from the potential savings. If the remaining savings are still positive, switching makes sense.
Switching is a good decision if your total annual savings after subtracting the ETF are still positive.
Real-World Example
Let’s assume your current plan costs $1,800 per year, and switching to a new plan could bring that down to $1,500 per year. That’s a $300 annual savings.
If your ETF is $150, you would subtract that from your $300 savings, leaving you with a net savings of $150.
In this case, paying the ETF and switching to the new plan is smart since you’ll save $150 even after the fee.
When Switching Is a Smart Decision
There are specific situations where paying the ETF and switching makes clear financial sense:
Significantly Lower Rates: If rates have dropped since you signed your contract, switching to a lower plan could save you hundreds.
Moving: If you’re moving to a new home, you might think transferring your electricity service is the easiest option. However, it’s often not the best choice. Your new home will likely have a different electricity usage profile, meaning the plan that worked for your old home might not be the best fit for your new one. Instead of transferring, switching to a new plan tailored to your new home’s usage can help you avoid being locked into an unfavorable deal. Moving is the perfect opportunity to shop for a plan that matches your new usage needs and could save you money in the long run.
Why Long-Term Savings Matter
While paying the ETF is a one-time expense, the savings from switching to a cheaper plan will benefit you over the entire length of your new contract.
Use Live Link™ to compare plans quickly based on your actual usage, and you’ll know immediately whether switching makes sense for your situation.
Switching can feel like a big step, but it’s worth it when the math shows you’ll save in the long run.
With Live Link™ doing the heavy lifting, it’s a no-brainer to compare plans and see how much you can save.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
We all make choices daily—some small, like picking a restaurant, and others more impactful, like choosing an electricity provider.
But what if there was a smarter way to navigate these decisions?
One that saved you time, money, and effort without sacrificing quality?
When finding the best electricity plan, there’s a better approach than going directly to a provider’s website.
Let’s explore why a comparison marketplace is your ultimate solution.
Key Takeaways
ComparePower saves time by showing comparisons between electricity plans from multiple providers.
Marketplaces offer exclusive rates not available directly from providers.
Unbiased, transparent comparisons make finding the best electricity plan easier with Compare Power.
Table of Contents
The Challenge of Choice: Quality, Effort, and Cost
We consider three main factors when making decisions: quality, effort, and cost.
Whether choosing a streaming service or an energy plan, we want reliable service, minimal hassle, and the best price.
Choosing an electricity plan works the same way. But not all methods of choosing are equal.
Let’s break down the three primary ways to pick an energy plan and how each impacts your experience:
Three Ways to Pick an Electricity Plan
1. Go Direct: Stick with a Known Provider
Many people choose to stick with a provider they’ve seen advertised or have used before. It feels easy and familiar.
But here’s the catch: you’re only seeing one company’s offers, which could mean missing out on better rates from competitors.
Worse, you might be talking to a salesperson rather than an unbiased advisor.
And let’s be honest—sometimes, you might not even be speaking with someone based in Texas who understands your needs.
It limits your options and often leaves you with fewer choices at a higher price.
2. Do It Yourself: The Deep Dive into Multiple Websites
If you’re diligent and enjoy comparison shopping, you might hop from website to website. This takes time—lots of it.
You’ll need to read through the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) and Terms of Service on each provider’s site to understand pricing, hidden fees, and contract terms.
To get an apples-to-apples comparison, you might have to create your own spreadsheet.
But even then, you could miss critical details that affect the total cost. It’s exhaustive, and you’ll likely end up overwhelmed.
3. The One-Stop Shop: Use a Comparison Marketplace
Here’s where it gets easier. A marketplace gathers plans from various companies in one place, giving you side-by-side comparisons of costs, features, and terms.
It saves you the time and hassle of checking each provider’s website individually.
Plus, you can filter the options based on your specific needs—whether you’re looking for a fixed-rate plan or one with renewable energy options.
You can even enroll directly through the marketplace, often in under 10 minutes.
Why a Marketplace is Your Best Bet
Why spend hours jumping between provider sites when you can see everything in one place?
A marketplace is like your personal assistant for electricity shopping.
It sifts through dozens of plans, presents only the most relevant options, and helps you make the smartest choice.
And it’s not just about convenience—you also get transparency, better rates, and exclusive offers that providers may not share directly on their own sites.
Think about it this way: a marketplace like ComparePower does the heavy lifting.
You can focus on what matters most to you—the lowest rate, the most reliable provider, or a plan that matches your energy usage.
Why Trust a Marketplace Over Going Direct?
At Compare Power, we’ve spent over a decade helping Texans navigate the complex energy market. We’re not here to sell you a specific provider but to help you find the best deal.
Here’s why you should consider using a marketplace like ours:
Exclusive Rates You Won’t Find Elsewhere: Providers often offer special rates to marketplaces like ComparePower that you won’t see on their own websites.
Transparency and Unbiased Comparison: Unlike calling a sales rep, a marketplace shows you the real prices, terms, and conditions—so you can make an informed decision.
Time-Saving Convenience: You can compare rates and features with a few clicks and even read customer reviews. All the information you need is presented in one place, making it easier to choose without second-guessing.
How ComparePower Operates
We created Compare Power to simplify electricity shopping for Texans.
Our platform aggregates plans from top, reliable providers, presenting them in an easy-to-understand format so you can compare your options without confusion.
Why Not All Providers Make the Cut
Not every provider is listed on Compare Power. Why?
Some companies lack the technology to integrate seamlessly into our platform, while others are too new or lack the transparency we require for a trustworthy recommendation.
We aim to provide only the best options that meet high service standards, technology, and customer satisfaction.
How We Get Paid (and Why It Doesn’t Affect You)
ComparePower earns commissions when customers sign up through our site, but this doesn’t influence how we rank providers.
We aim to offer an unbiased comparison based on your needs, ensuring you get the best deal.
These commissions allow us to offer our service at no cost to you, saving you time and energy.
Why Comparison Marketplaces Are the Smartest Choice
Shopping for electricity shouldn’t be hard or time-consuming.
Using a marketplace like ComparePower, you streamline the process, find better deals, and ensure you’re making an informed decision.
Going direct to a provider may feel more straightforward, but it limits your choices and can cost you more in the long run.
Don’t spend hours switching between sites—let ComparePower simplify your decision-making.
With transparency, better rates, and an easy-to-use platform, ComparePower helps you control your electricity costs.
Ready to Make the Switch? Here’s How:
Enter Your Zip Code: This lets us show you the most accurate rates for your area.
Compare Plans: Look at side-by-side comparisons of costs, features, and contract terms.
Start Saving: Enjoy lower energy costs without the hassle.
Get Help Finding Your Best Plan
Call us at 855-441-3030 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
You’ve seen the ads: “Lock in a low rate per kWh.”
Sounds like a steal, right?
But here’s the thing—those advertised rates? They’re rarely what you’ll actually pay.
It’s a classic bait-and-switch tactic designed to get you hooked, only to have you pay a higher bill later.
Let’s break down why.
Key Takeaways
Advertised rates are tied to specific usage amounts, like 1000 kWh, but your usage fluctuates, so you’re likely paying more than advertised.
Live Link™ connects to your TDU and pulls your real usage data, matching you with the best plan—no guessing, no surprises.
Don’t worry about confusing fine print—Live Link™ does all the heavy lifting.
Table of Contents
The Truth About Advertised Rates
Here’s the reality: those low rates you see are tied to specific usage amounts.
It’s a great rate if you use exactly 500, 1000, or 2000 kWh. But here’s the catch—your usage is never that exact.
Your energy use fluctuates month to month, so if you use more or less than that magic number, the rate you actually pay can be much higher.
It’s a trick designed to make the rate look low, but your bill doesn’t reflect what you thought you signed up for.
Why Your Usage Makes All the Difference
Let’s keep it simple—your electricity rate depends on how much energy you use. But your usage? It changes.
It’s high one month (hello, summer AC bills), and lower the next month.
If you’re not using exactly what the plan expects, those advertised rates? Gone.
This fluctuation means you’re almost always paying more than what you saw in the ad.
They’re banking on you not hitting that perfect usage number.
Avoid the Trap with Live Link™ (No Guesswork)
Here’s the solution: you don’t have to guess what you’ll pay. You don’t have to match arbitrary usage numbers to get a good rate.
Live Link™ connects directly to your TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) and pulls your real usage data—so you can see what you’re actually using.
Then, it finds the best plans that fit your actual energy habits. No guesswork, no surprises.
Instead of hoping you hit the right usage, Live Link™ helps you find the right plan for what you already use.
No more wondering why your bill doesn’t match the ads.
No Fine Print, No Hidden Fees
Let’s be honest—no one wants to dig through fine print to figure out what they’re really paying.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
Your lights won’t flicker more with a smaller company, and you won’t get more “reliable” electricity from a big-name brand.
It’s the same power flowing through the same infrastructure, no matter what.
So, what are you paying for with those big-name providers?
Marketing. That’s it. TXU, Reliant, and others spend a fortune on advertising to make sure you know their name. But advertising doesn’t keep your home powered. It just drives up their prices.
The Real Cost of Big-Name Brands
Let’s talk numbers. You’ve probably seen ads boasting rates like “$0.10 per kWh!” It sounds great on the surface, but here’s the catch: those rates are usually tied to exact usage amounts—like 500, 1000, or 2000 kWh per month.
And unless you’re measuring your power usage to the exact kWh every month (spoiler alert: you’re not), you’re not going to hit those numbers perfectly.
The rate you actually pay will vary depending on your real usage, and with big brands, it’s usually higher than what’s advertised.
And if you don’t switch plans at the end of your contract, you could be stuck paying even more thanks to holdover rates, which can skyrocket with market fluctuations.
That’s right—while TXU or Reliant might look good on paper, the actual bills you receive could be much higher than you expected.
Smaller Providers Offer Better Deals (Without the Hype)
Here’s where the smaller guys come in.
While the big brands are spending millions on advertising, smaller electricity providers in Texas are cutting through the noise by offering better rates.
They don’t have massive marketing budgets to pay for, so they can afford to pass the savings directly to you.
What does that mean?
It means you’re getting the same electricity, for less money.
Smaller providers can offer plans that are more tailored to your actual energy needs without the gimmicks of “free nights” or “free weekends” that are often tied to confusing terms and conditions.
Why Would You Pay More for a Name?
Think about it: would you pay extra for a loaf of bread just because of the brand on the packaging, even if the ingredients are exactly the same as the cheaper option?
Of course not. You’d go with the one that gives you the most value for your money.
Electricity is no different.
The brand name on your electricity bill doesn’t matter.
What matters is how much you’re paying and how well the plan fits your usage.
So why would you overpay just because you recognize the name?
How to Find the Best Electricity Plan (for Less)
Now that you know the truth about big-brand electricity providers, how do you find the best plan for you?
Simple: Compare plans based on your actual usage.
That’s where a service like Live Link™ comes in handy.
Instead of picking a plan based on ads, you can connect your home’s real kWh usage and instantly find the plan that gives you the best rate—automatically.
No guesswork. No calculating. No overpaying for a name.
The power is the same. The real difference is in the price, and smaller providers often offer better deals without all the marketing fluff.
So, before you sign up for another big-name brand, ask yourself: why pay more for a name?
Start comparing plans based on what really matters—your actual energy needs—and stop overpaying for the same electricity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it matter which electricity provider I choose in Texas?
No, it doesn’t. All providers use the same local utility (TDU) to deliver power, so the electricity is the same regardless of your chosen provider.
Are smaller electricity providers reliable?
Yes. Smaller providers deliver the same power as big-name companies because it all comes from the same grid. What you’re really choosing is the pricing and plan structure that works best for you.
Why do big-name providers charge more?
Big brands like TXU and Reliant spend a lot on advertising. Those costs get passed on to the consumer, so their prices are often higher than those of smaller providers focusing on offering better rates without heavy marketing.
Ready to Stop Overpaying?
Stop paying for a name and start saving on your electricity bill. Use Live Link™ to find the best plan for your actual usage, and start putting that extra money back in your pocket.
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace.Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.
