Texas has a deregulated electricity market. You CHOOSE your provider. Most DFW residents are overpaying because they don't shop.
How it works:
- Oncor delivers the electricity (you can't choose the delivery company)
- You choose the RETAIL provider (who bills you)
- Rates vary significantly between providers
- Source: powertochoose.org (official Texas state comparison tool)
How to shop:
- Go to PowerToChoose.org
- Enter your zip code
- Filter by plan type (fixed rate recommended)
- Compare rates at 1,000 kWh usage (DFW average)
- Read the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for each plan
Current average rates (DFW, March 2026):
- Lowest fixed-rate plans: $0.08-0.10/kWh
- Average plans: $0.11-0.14/kWh
- Expensive plans (if you haven't shopped): $0.15-0.18/kWh
The savings:
- Switching from $0.15 to $0.10/kWh on 1,200 kWh/month usage:
- Monthly savings: $60
- Annual savings: $720
Pro tips:
- Lock in a fixed rate. Variable rates spike in summer when demand is high.
- 12-month contracts are the sweet spot. Long enough for stability, short enough to reshop.
- Watch for hidden fees. Some plans have a "base charge" or "delivery charge" that makes the per-kWh rate misleading. Read the EFL.
- Avoid plans with minimum usage requirements. Some offer great rates only if you use 1,000+ kWh.
- Set a calendar reminder 2 weeks before your contract expires to reshop.
DFW summer tip:
- Summer bills (June-Sept) can be 2-3x winter bills. A $0.10/kWh plan at 2,500 kWh summer usage = $250/month.
- Budget $250-400/month for summer electricity on a 2,000+ sqft home.
Sources:
- PowerToChoose.org — official Texas comparison tool
- Texas PUC (Public Utility Commission)
- Personal electricity plan research and switching
When did you last shop your electricity rate?