Molly Ayala
If you're moving into an apartment in Houston, one of the first things you'll need to do is set up your utilities so that you have access to water, electricity, air conditioning, internet, and TV. Unlike electricity, gas is provided by a single company in Houston: CenterPoint Energy. You can set up your gas service through their website or by calling them. In most parts of Houston, water service is managed by the City of Houston, but if you live in a smaller town or suburb, it may be offered by the local government. To set up your electricity, you'll need to provide your name, address, move-in date, date of birth, and either your Social Security Number or Driver's License number. You'll also need to select an electricity provider and plan that suits your needs and energy usage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Required Information | Name, address, move-in date, date of birth, and either a Social Security Number or Driver’s License number |
| Electricity Provider | TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, Direct Energy, Green Mountain Energy, Constellation, Just Energy, Gexa Energy, Centerpoint Energy |
| Average Monthly Bill | $80-$140 per month depending on the size of the apartment and current electricity prices |
| Average kWh Usage | 500-1000 kWh per month depending on the number of bedrooms |
| Best Electric Rate | 7.43 cents per kWh offered by the retail energy provider NRG |
| Comparison Tools | ElectricityPlans.com, Compare Power, Power to Choose, 2TurnItOn |
| Water Service | Managed by the City of Houston or the local government in smaller towns and suburbs |
| Phone Service | AT&T |
| Cable TV Service | Comcast |
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What You'll Learn
Compare electricity plans and providers
In Houston, residents can choose their electricity provider from a competitive marketplace. This means that you can compare different electricity plans, rates, and services from multiple providers, selecting the one that best suits your requirements.
The local utility company, CenterPoint Energy, is responsible for managing and restoring electricity during power outages, as well as delivering power to your home. However, you will need to choose a retail electricity provider (REP) as your electricity supplier.
There are numerous electricity providers in Houston, including TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, Direct Energy, Green Mountain Energy, Constellation, Just Energy, Gexa Energy, and more. These providers offer a variety of plans, including fixed rates and renewable energy options, tailored to meet diverse household needs.
When comparing electricity plans, it is essential to understand your average monthly usage to estimate what you will pay with each plan. Basic fixed-rate plans are generally recommended as they are suitable for most homes. However, there are also bill credit plans, tiered rate plans, free electricity plans, and more.
Additionally, it is crucial to carefully review the fine print of each plan to avoid hidden fees or unusually high early termination fees. Comparing electricity rates and plans can lead to significant savings on your electricity bills.
Online tools such as ElectricityPlans.com, EnergyBot, 2TurnItOn, Compare Power, and Power to Choose can assist in comparing rates and finding the best plan for your needs. Simply enter your zip code and other relevant information to explore the available options in your area.
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Choose a plan that suits your energy usage
When choosing an electricity plan that suits your energy usage, it's important to consider various factors, including your monthly energy consumption, household size, and lifestyle. Here are some tips to help you choose the right plan:
Understand Your Energy Usage
Before selecting an electricity plan, it's essential to know your monthly energy usage. Review your previous electricity bills to understand your average consumption. This information will help you compare different plans and choose the one that aligns with your usage patterns.
Compare Rates and Plans
Houston has a deregulated energy market, which means you have the freedom to choose from various energy providers and plans. Use online comparison tools, such as Choose Energy, ElectricityMatch, or EnergyBot, to compare rates and plans side by side. These tools allow you to consider factors like contract length, renewable energy options, customer service ratings, and hidden fees. By entering your ZIP code and energy usage data, you can find the most affordable and suitable plan for your needs.
Consider Fixed-Rate Plans
Opting for a fixed-rate plan can provide stability and help you budget for your energy expenses. With a fixed-rate plan, your electricity rate remains consistent, regardless of market fluctuations. This can be especially beneficial if you want to avoid unexpected spikes in your bill during high-demand seasons, such as summer and winter.
Explore Renewable Energy Options
If sustainability is important to you, consider choosing a renewable electricity plan. Houston has a growing number of renewable energy options, including wind and solar power. You can select a plan that incorporates a percentage of green energy or choose providers that offer 100% green energy plans.
Look for Additional Perks
Some electricity plans offer additional perks and incentives. For example, plans with free nights and weekends can provide added flexibility, while bill credits can help you save significantly on your energy costs. Consider your lifestyle and preferences when evaluating these perks to choose a plan that aligns with your usage habits.
Research Customer Reviews and Company Reputation
In addition to pricing, consider the reputation and customer reviews of the electricity providers. Choose a provider known for competitive rates, excellent customer service, and transparency in their pricing and plans. This will help ensure that you receive reliable service and avoid deceptive marketing practices.
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Provide personal information to the provider
When setting up electricity in an apartment in Houston, you will need to provide some personal information to the provider. Houston residents get to choose their electricity provider from a competitive marketplace, allowing them to compare different electricity plans, rates, and services from multiple providers.
Firstly, you will need to provide your name, address, move-in date, date of birth, and either a Social Security Number or Driver's License Number. Additionally, you may need to provide proof of electricity service in your name before you can move into your apartment. This can be done by enrolling online and providing the leasing agent with a confirmation email.
If you are moving into an apartment, the office manager can inform you of the average electricity usage based on the number of bedrooms in your unit. This information will be useful when enrolling for new service, as your electricity provider will likely run a "soft hit" credit check. A minimum credit score of 600 is typically required to avoid paying a deposit, which can range from $300 to $400.
Alternatively, you can provide a copy of your payment history from your previous utility company, showing no more than one late payment in the last 12 months, or opt for a no-deposit electricity plan. Remember, you don't have to choose the electricity company recommended by your apartment company; it's beneficial to shop around for the best energy rate that suits your needs.
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Understand the deposit requirements
When signing up for electricity in an apartment in Houston, you may be required to pay a deposit. The average Texas electricity deposit is $350, based on two months of estimated billing. However, deposits vary by provider and the type of home (apartment vs. house). For example, a deposit for a one-bedroom apartment in Texas with 750 square feet, energy use of around 750 kWh per month, and an electricity rate of 14.8 cents per kWh would be around $220.
To avoid paying a deposit, you typically need a minimum credit score of 580-600 with one of the major credit score companies (Experian, Equifax, or Transunion). Some electricity companies have an even higher minimum credit score requirement. If you don't meet the minimum credit score requirement, there are still options for obtaining electricity without paying a deposit. These include:
- No-deposit electricity plans: Some providers offer plans that do not require a deposit.
- Prepaid electricity plans: With prepaid electricity, you make a minimal upfront payment, typically as low as $75, and then add more money as needed. There is no deposit or credit check required for these plans.
- Deposit alternatives: Certain companies offer deposit alternatives, such as a non-refundable fee that is typically around half of a normal deposit.
- Deposit waivers: You may qualify for a deposit waiver if you meet certain criteria, such as being over 65, providing a letter of credit from your current electricity provider, or being a victim of family violence.
It is important to note that Houston has a deregulated electricity market, which means you can choose your electricity provider from a competitive marketplace. This allows you to compare different electricity plans, rates, and services from multiple providers and select the one that best suits your needs and budget.
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Same-day electricity connection
To sign up for an electricity plan in Houston, you must first select a provider. Texas has a deregulated electricity industry, meaning residents of Houston can choose from over 40 electricity providers and select the plan that best fits their needs.
Some of the top companies serving Houston include:
- TXU Energy
- Reliant Energy
- Direct Energy
- Green Mountain Energy
- Constellation
- Just Energy
- Gexa Energy
Reliant Energy and Now Power offer same-day electricity connections. Reliant Energy offers same-day connections Monday through Saturday, excluding holidays, where an existing meter is in place. Requests processed after 5 pm Central Time will be connected the next business day. Additional charges may apply.
Now Power offers same-day service in deregulated areas of Texas, including Houston. They offer prepaid electricity plans with no long-term contracts, allowing customers to cancel or switch plans without penalties.
To sign up for a same-day electricity connection, you can enrol online or call customer support. You will need to provide your name, address, move-in date, date of birth, and either a Social Security Number or Driver's License number. You may also need to pay a deposit or provide a valid ID.
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Frequently asked questions
Houston residents get to choose their electricity provider from a competitive marketplace. You can compare different electricity plans, rates, and services from multiple providers, choosing the one that best fits your needs. You can use a comparison shopping site like ElectricityPlans.com or 2TurnItOn to help you find the best rate.
You will need to provide your name, address, move-in date, date of birth, and either a Social Security Number or Driver’s License number. Your electricity provider will also run a “soft hit” credit check, so you will need a minimum credit score of 600 to avoid paying a deposit.
No, you don't need to choose a specific electric company or plan for apartments. You can pick any electricity provider and plan that suits your needs and budget.
The average kWh usage per month for a one-bedroom apartment in Texas is 500 to 750 kWh, with an average bill of $73 to $110 per month. For a two-bedroom apartment, the average kWh usage is 750 to 1000 kWh, with an average bill of $110 to $140 per month. You can also enter your zip code and approximate usage to estimate your monthly bill.
Yes, some electricity providers in Houston offer same-day service. For example, TXU Energy offers same-day service if you sign up before 6:30 pm on the day the service is requested.
