Provider Comparison

Best Electricity Rates in Houston for November 2025: Compare Top Providers

Find the lowest Houston electricity rates for November 2025. Compare 50+ providers serving CenterPoint territory. Rates start at 9.1¢/kWh. Save $350-550 annually.

E

ElectricSave TX

Expert Analysis

Published: 11/3/2025

26 min read

Last Updated: November 3, 2025

Houston electricity rates are at one of their lowest points of the year this November, with competitive plans starting at just 9.1¢ per kilowatt-hour (kWh) — significantly below both the Texas state average and historical Houston rates. If you're a Houston resident looking to save on your monthly electric bill, now is an excellent time to compare providers and lock in favorable rates before winter demand potentially impacts pricing.

This comprehensive guide analyzes the best electricity rates available in Houston for November 2025, compares top providers serving the CenterPoint Energy territory, and provides actionable strategies to maximize your savings in the nation's fourth-largest city.


Executive Summary

Houston residents have access to a highly competitive deregulated electricity market with over 50 retail electricity providers competing for customers in the CenterPoint Energy service area. As of November 2025, the lowest advertised rates start at 9.1¢/kWh, while the average Houston electricity rate sits at 13.72¢/kWh for 1,000 kWh usage — approximately 10.7% lower than the Texas state average.

Key Takeaways for November 2025:

  • Lowest available rate: 9.1¢/kWh (Chariot Energy GridEdge 6, verified November 1, 2025)
  • Average Houston rate: 13.72¢/kWh at 1,000 kWh usage (multiple comparison sources)
  • Typical Houston usage: 1,590 kWh/month average, with seasonal variation of 800-2,000+ kWh
  • CenterPoint TDU charges: $4.39/month + 4.338¢/kWh (effective September 2025)
  • Estimated savings: $350-550 annually by switching to competitive low-rate provider
  • Market advantage: Houston rates are approximately 22% lower than the national average (17.47¢/kWh)
  • Provider options: 50+ retail electricity providers competing in CenterPoint territory

Bottom Line: November 2025 presents an optimal opportunity for Houston residents to secure competitive electricity rates. Fall seasonal demand reduction, combined with robust provider competition, has created a buyer's market with rates not seen since early 2024.


Current Houston Electricity Market Analysis (November 2025)

Rate Environment Overview

The Houston electricity market is experiencing favorable rate conditions in November 2025, driven by several key factors:

Seasonal Demand Reduction: After the peak summer cooling season (June-September), Houston's average household electricity consumption drops from 2,000+ kWh to approximately 1,200-1,400 kWh in November. This reduced demand typically leads to lower wholesale electricity costs, which retail providers pass on to consumers through competitive rates.

Market Competition Intensity: Houston's CenterPoint Energy service area hosts one of the most competitive retail electricity markets in Texas, with over 50 active providers. This intense competition — particularly for customer acquisition during high-shopping periods like fall and spring — drives promotional rates and aggressive pricing.

Rate Trends: According to data from multiple comparison marketplaces verified on November 1, 2025:

  • Lowest advertised rate: 9.1¢/kWh (fixed-rate plans at 500-2000 kWh usage levels)
  • Average rate: 13.72¢/kWh (at 1,000 kWh baseline)
  • Typical rate range: 9.1¢ to 16.0¢/kWh for quality fixed-rate plans
  • Premium plans: 16.0¢ to 18.0¢/kWh (higher customer service, renewable energy, or brand recognition)

Historical Context

Year-Over-Year Comparison:

  • November 2024 average: 14.5¢/kWh
  • November 2025 average: 13.72¢/kWh
  • Improvement: 5.4% decrease year-over-year

National & State Comparison:

  • Texas state average: 14.29¢/kWh (Energy Information Administration, 2025)
  • National average: 17.47¢/kWh (EIA, 2025)
  • Houston advantage: 10.7% below Texas average, 21.5% below national average

Provider Landscape

Houston residents can choose from approximately 50 retail electricity providers (REPs), though the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) Power to Choose marketplace lists 38 providers as of November 2025. The discrepancy exists because not all providers publish plans on the official PUCT platform, with some offering direct enrollment or partnering with independent comparison sites.

Major Provider Categories:

  1. Large National/State Brands (TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, Direct Energy)

    • Pros: Brand recognition, established customer service, financial stability
    • Cons: Typically higher rates (15-18¢/kWh), marketing costs reflected in pricing
    • Customer satisfaction: 4.5-4.7 out of 5 (industry surveys)
  2. Competitive Mid-Tier Providers (Gexa Energy, Express Energy, 4Change Energy, Champion Energy)

    • Pros: Competitive rates (11-14¢/kWh), good service, flexible plan options
    • Cons: Less brand recognition, varying service quality
    • Customer satisfaction: 4.0-4.5 out of 5
  3. Discount/Low-Rate Providers (APG&E, Chariot Energy, Frontier Utilities, Discount Power)

    • Pros: Lowest rates (9.1-11¢/kWh), transparent pricing, minimal fees
    • Cons: Limited customer service, fewer plan options, smaller companies
    • Customer satisfaction: 3.5-4.2 out of 5
  4. Green Energy Specialists (Gexa Energy, Green Mountain Energy, Rhythm Energy)

    • Pros: 100% renewable energy plans, environmental impact, competitive rates
    • Cons: Sometimes premium pricing, limited conventional plan options
    • Customer satisfaction: 4.0-4.5 out of 5

Top Houston Electricity Providers & Rates (November 2025)

Based on verified data from multiple comparison sources as of November 1, 2025, here are the most competitive electricity providers and plans available to Houston residents in the CenterPoint Energy territory:

Lowest-Rate Providers

ProviderPlan NameRate (¢/kWh)Usage LevelContract LengthKey Features
Chariot EnergyGridEdge 69.1500 kWh6 monthsSmart thermostat integration, time-of-use optimization
APG&EElectricity Plans 69.1-9.4500-1000 kWh6 monthsNo monthly fees, straightforward pricing
Gexa EnergySaver Supreme 129.41000 kWh12 months
🌿100% renewable energy, no deposit
Frontier UtilitiesFrontier Saver 1210.81000 kWh12 monthsLocal Texas company, competitive rates
Discount PowerWise Buy 1211.21000 kWh12 monthsNo cancellation fees, flexible terms
Express EnergyExpress Value 1211.91000 kWh12 monthsAvg rate 15.34¢/kWh across all usage levels
Champion EnergyChamp Saver 1212.51000 kWh12 monthsHouston-based provider, avg rate 16.10¢/kWh

Rates verified from PowerWizard, Choose Energy, and Texas Electricity Ratings as of November 1, 2025 for Houston ZIP codes 77001-77099

Premium Provider Comparison

ProviderAverage RateCustomer SatisfactionNotable FeaturesBest For
TXU Energy15.5-18.0¢/kWh4.7/5Free nights/weekends plans, rewards programBrand trust, customer service priority
Reliant Energy15.0-17.5¢/kWh4.6/5Smart home integration, mobile appTechnology-focused households
Direct Energy15.5-17.0¢/kWh4.5/5National brand, business plans availableReliability, established provider
Green Mountain Energy14.5-16.5¢/kWh4.4/5
🌿100% renewable, carbon offsets, community programs
Environmental commitment

Customer satisfaction scores from 2025 industry surveys; rates represent typical range across various usage levels

Rate Calculation Reality Check

Important: The advertised rates above represent the energy charge component only. Your total cost includes CenterPoint Energy's TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) delivery charges, which are identical regardless of which retail provider you choose.

Complete Rate Breakdown (Example: 1,590 kWh/month average Houston usage):

Energy Charge (Provider Rate):
  • Low-rate plan (10¢/kWh): $159.00
  • Average-rate plan (13.72¢/kWh): $218.15
  • Premium plan (16¢/kWh): $254.40

CenterPoint TDU Charges (All Customers Pay):
  • Monthly customer charge: $4.39
  • Delivery charge (4.338¢/kWh × 1,590 kWh): $68.97
  • Total TDU: $73.36

Total Monthly Bill:
  • Low-rate scenario: $232.36
  • Average-rate scenario: $291.51
  • Premium scenario: $327.76

Annual Difference (Low vs Premium): $1,144.80 savings

Key Insight: The difference between choosing a 10¢/kWh plan versus a 16¢/kWh plan costs the average Houston household approximately $1,145 annually — more than enough to justify spending 15-20 minutes comparing providers.


Understanding Houston's Electricity Market

CenterPoint Energy's Role

Critical Distinction: CenterPoint Energy is Houston's Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU), not a retail electricity provider. This is a common source of confusion for Houston residents.

What CenterPoint Does:

  • Maintains and operates the physical electricity infrastructure (power lines, transformers, meters)
  • Delivers electricity from generation sources to your home
  • Responds to power outages and performs emergency repairs
  • Reads meters and reports usage data to retail providers
  • Charges regulated delivery fees set by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)

What CenterPoint Does NOT Do:

  • Sell electricity directly to residential customers
  • Set the per-kWh energy rate you pay
  • Handle billing for the energy portion of your bill (retail provider does this)
  • Offer different rates to different customers (TDU charges are standardized)

Service Territory: CenterPoint serves approximately 2.5 million customers across a 5,000 square mile area including Houston, Harris County, Fort Bend County, Montgomery County, and surrounding regions.

How Deregulation Works in Houston

Texas deregulated its electricity market in 2002 through Senate Bill 7, separating the traditional vertically-integrated utility model into three distinct components:

  1. Generation Companies (Produce electricity at power plants)
  2. Transmission & Distribution Utilities (TDUs) (Deliver electricity — CenterPoint in Houston)
  3. Retail Electric Providers (REPs) (Sell electricity to consumers — 50+ options in Houston)

The Consumer Advantage: This deregulation creates competition among retail providers, who must compete for your business based on price, customer service, plan features, and value-added services. Houston's large population and high electricity consumption make it one of the most competitive markets in Texas, resulting in consistently lower rates compared to regulated areas of the state.

TDU Delivery Charges Explained

Every Houston electricity customer pays CenterPoint's TDU delivery charges, regardless of retail provider choice. These charges cover the cost of maintaining Houston's massive electrical infrastructure.

Current CenterPoint Rates (Effective September 2025, valid through February 2026):

  • Monthly Customer Charge: $4.39
  • Per-kWh Delivery Charge: 4.338¢/kWh

Update Schedule: PUCT reviews and approves TDU rate changes twice annually (March and September). The next scheduled update will occur in March 2026.

Cost Impact Example:

  • 1,000 kWh usage: $47.77 TDU charges
  • 1,590 kWh usage (Houston average): $73.36 TDU charges
  • 2,000 kWh usage (summer): $91.15 TDU charges

Important: Your Electricity Facts Label (EFL) should clearly separate the retail provider's energy charge from CenterPoint's TDU delivery charge. If it's unclear, request clarification before signing up.


Houston Electricity Usage Patterns

Average Consumption Data

Understanding your household's electricity usage patterns is critical to selecting the optimal plan and calculating true costs.

Houston Average Monthly Usage: 1,590 kWh

  • Source: EnergySage electricity consumption data, 2025
  • This is 40.5% higher than the Texas state average (1,132 kWh)
  • This is 76.9% higher than the national average (899 kWh)

Why Houston Uses More Electricity:

  1. Climate Factors: Houston's subtropical climate means year-round air conditioning needs, with extreme heat and humidity from May through October creating sustained cooling demand.

  2. Temperature Extremes: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F (35°C) with heat indices reaching 105-110°F (40-43°C) when humidity is factored.

  3. Humidity Impact: Houston's 75% average relative humidity makes cooling more energy-intensive, as air conditioning systems must remove both heat and moisture.

  4. Housing Stock: Many Houston homes are large (2,000-3,000+ sq ft), older (lacking modern insulation standards), and feature high ceilings — all factors that increase cooling loads.

Seasonal Usage Patterns

Houston electricity consumption varies dramatically by season, which should influence your plan selection strategy:

SeasonMonthsAverage UsagePrimary LoadRate Environment
Peak SummerJun-Sep2,000-2,400 kWhAir conditioning (60-70% of bill)Higher rates due to demand
Fall TransitionOct-Nov1,200-1,500 kWhModerate cooling, reduced demandLowest rates of year
WinterDec-Feb800-1,200 kWhHeating (typically minimal in Houston)Low to moderate rates
SpringMar-May1,300-1,700 kWhIncreasing cooling needsRising rates

Strategic Insight: November falls in Houston's lowest consumption period, which typically corresponds with the most competitive rates. Locking in a 12-24 month fixed-rate plan now means you'll carry these favorable rates through the expensive summer months ahead.

Usage by Home Size

Your home's square footage significantly impacts electricity consumption:

Home SizeTypical Monthly UsageEst. Monthly Bill (10¢/kWh + TDU)Est. Monthly Bill (16¢/kWh + TDU)
Small (< 1,200 sq ft)800-1,200 kWh$117-$169$156-$219
Medium (1,200-2,000 sq ft)1,200-1,800 kWh$169-$229$219-$304
Large (2,000-3,000 sq ft)1,800-2,500 kWh$229-$307$304-$404
Very Large (> 3,000 sq ft)2,500-3,500 kWh$307-$421$404-$556

Calculations include CenterPoint TDU charges ($4.39 + 4.338¢/kWh); actual usage varies by insulation, HVAC efficiency, occupant behavior, and season


How to Choose the Best Electricity Plan for Your Houston Home

Step 1: Determine Your Average Monthly Usage

Method 1 - Check Past Bills: Review your last 12 months of electricity bills and calculate your average kWh consumption. This provides the most accurate baseline for comparison.

Method 2 - Use Houston Averages: If you don't have historical data:

  • Small apartments/condos: 800-1,000 kWh
  • Medium homes: 1,200-1,600 kWh
  • Large homes: 1,800-2,500 kWh
  • Very large homes: 2,500+ kWh

Important: Always compare electricity plans at your actual usage level, not the advertised rate. Many providers offer attractive rates at specific usage levels (e.g., "9.1¢/kWh at 500 kWh") but charge significantly more at your actual consumption level.

Step 2: Identify Your Priorities

Price-Focused: If lowest total cost is your primary concern:

  • Target providers: APG&E, Chariot Energy, Gexa Energy, Frontier Utilities
  • Plan types: Simple fixed-rate plans with no gimmicks
  • Contract length: 12-24 months to lock in current low rates
  • Expected savings: Maximum ($350-550 annually vs. premium providers)

Service-Focused: If customer service and reliability matter most:

  • Target providers: TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, Direct Energy
  • Plan types: Premium plans with robust support, mobile apps, 24/7 service
  • Contract length: 12 months for flexibility
  • Cost premium: Expect to pay 2-4¢/kWh more (~$38-76/month at Houston average usage)

Green Energy Priority: If environmental impact is important:

  • Target providers: Gexa Energy, Green Mountain Energy, Rhythm Energy
  • Plan types: 100% renewable energy plans (wind/solar)
  • Contract length: 12-36 months
  • Cost: Competitive with conventional plans (often same or 1-2¢/kWh premium)

Flexibility Priority: If you want the option to cancel without penalty:

  • Target providers: Various (check individual EFL documents)
  • Plan types: Month-to-month variable rate or short-term fixed (3-6 months)
  • Contract length: No contract or 3-6 months
  • Cost: Typically 2-3¢/kWh higher than long-term fixed plans

Step 3: Compare the Electricity Facts Label (EFL)

The Electricity Facts Label is a standardized document required by the PUCT that shows plan details in a consistent format. This is your most important comparison tool.

Key EFL Components to Compare:

  1. Average Price Per kWh (at your usage level)

    • Check the rate at 500, 1000, and 2000 kWh
    • Identify if there are usage penalties or credits
    • Calculate based on your actual average consumption
  2. Contract Terms

    • Length: 3, 6, 12, 24, or 36 months
    • Start and end dates
    • Automatic renewal terms
  3. Early Termination Fee

    • Typical range: $100-300
    • Some plans: $0 cancellation fee
    • Critical if you might move or switch
  4. Monthly Base Charges

    • Some providers charge $4.95-9.95/month base fee
    • Others include in per-kWh rate
    • Impacts total cost at all usage levels
  5. Rate Structure

    • Simple fixed rate (e.g., 10¢/kWh all the time)
    • Tiered rates (different prices at different usage levels)
    • Time-of-use rates (different prices by time of day)
    • Free nights/weekends (different pricing structure)
  6. Renewable Energy Content

    • Percentage from renewable sources
    • Source (Texas wind, national mix, RECs)
    • Premium or included in standard rate

Red Flags in EFL Documents:

  • Rates that increase dramatically at common usage levels
  • High base charges ($10+/month) combined with low per-kWh rates (total cost may not be competitive)
  • Variable rate plans during volatile market periods
  • Automatic renewal with significantly higher renewal rates
  • Confusing bill credit structures that make true cost unclear

Step 4: Read Plan Reviews

Before committing to a provider, research their customer service reputation:

Where to Check:

  • Texas Electricity Ratings (texaselectricityratings.com) - aggregates customer reviews
  • Better Business Bureau (bbb.org) - complaint resolution tracking
  • Public Utility Commission complaint reports (puc.texas.gov)
  • Google reviews for provider-specific feedback

What to Look For:

  • Overall satisfaction rating (target 4.0+/5.0)
  • Billing accuracy and transparency
  • Customer service responsiveness
  • Ease of cancellation or plan changes
  • Hidden fee complaints
  • Deposit and credit check policies

Warning Signs:

  • Ratings below 3.5/5.0
  • Patterns of billing disputes
  • Difficulty reaching customer service
  • Poor complaint resolution from PUCT
  • Numerous "hidden fee" complaints

Step 5: Verify Current Promotional Offers

November 2025 is a competitive period for Houston electricity providers, with many offering promotional incentives:

Common Promotions:

  • Bill credits: $50-100 statement credit after first bill
  • Gift cards: $50-200 gift cards for signing up
  • Rate locks: Extended rate guarantee periods
  • Refer-a-friend: Credits for referring other customers
  • Smart device rebates: Free or discounted smart thermostats

Promotional Fine Print:

  • Check if promotion requires completing full contract term
  • Verify if early termination forfeits promotional value
  • Confirm promotion doesn't hide higher base rates
  • Calculate total savings including promotion vs. without

Best Strategies to Save Money on Houston Electricity

Strategy 1: Time Your Switch for Maximum Savings

Best Times to Switch Providers in Houston:

November (NOW)OPTIMAL TIMING

  • Current low rates: 9.1-13.72¢/kWh
  • Reduced demand = competitive marketplace
  • Lock in rates before winter and spring rate increases
  • Potential savings: $350-550 annually vs. summer switch

September-October: End of peak summer, providers eager for customer acquisition

March-April: Before summer demand drives rates up

AVOID: June-August (peak rates, limited competitive offers)

Strategy 2: Match Contract Length to Market Conditions

Current Recommendation for November 2025: 12-24 month fixed-rate contracts

Reasoning:

  • Current rates (9.1-13.72¢/kWh) are historically favorable
  • Locking in now protects against potential spring/summer rate increases
  • 12-24 month terms provide rate certainty through multiple summer peaks
  • Avoid variable-rate plans during uncertain market conditions

Contract Length Pros & Cons:

3-6 Months:

  • ✅ Flexibility to re-shop soon
  • ✅ Lower early termination risk if moving
  • ❌ Higher rates (typically 1-2¢/kWh premium)
  • ❌ Must re-shop frequently

12 Months:

  • ✅ Balanced rate and flexibility
  • ✅ One full year of rate protection
  • ✅ Competitive promotional rates
  • ❌ Early termination fee if breaking contract

24-36 Months:

  • ✅ Longest rate protection
  • ✅ Often best rates (providers reward commitment)
  • ✅ Set-it-and-forget-it simplicity
  • ❌ Locked in even if rates drop significantly
  • ❌ Higher early termination fees

Strategy 3: Optimize Your Usage Patterns

Even after selecting the best rate, you can further reduce costs through strategic usage management:

Peak Demand Avoidance (4 PM - 8 PM weekdays):

  • Run dishwasher after 8 PM
  • Delay laundry until evening or weekends
  • Pre-cool home before 4 PM, raise thermostat slightly during peak
  • Charge electric vehicles overnight
  • Potential savings: 10-15% on electricity costs

Thermostat Management:

  • Set to 76-78°F (24-26°C) when home in summer
  • Raise to 80-82°F when away
  • Use programmable or smart thermostats for automatic adjustment
  • Every degree above 72°F saves approximately 3% on cooling costs
  • Potential savings: $30-60/month during summer months

Appliance Efficiency:

  • Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs (75% energy reduction)
  • Upgrade old appliances to ENERGY STAR rated models
  • Clean HVAC filters monthly (dirty filters increase consumption 5-15%)
  • Use ceiling fans to reduce air conditioning load
  • Potential savings: $20-40/month

Home Weatherization:

  • Seal air leaks around windows, doors, and attic access
  • Add attic insulation (target R-30 to R-49 for Houston climate)
  • Install window film or cellular shades to reduce solar heat gain
  • Insulate hot water heater and pipes
  • Potential savings: $40-80/month, especially during summer

Strategy 4: Leverage Smart Home Technology

Smart Thermostats (Nest, Ecobee, Honeywell):

  • Automatic temperature optimization based on occupancy
  • Remote control via smartphone app
  • Energy usage reporting and insights
  • Cost: $120-250 installed
  • Payback period: 12-18 months through reduced consumption
  • Potential savings: 10-23% on heating/cooling costs ($190-440 annually for Houston)

Energy Monitoring Systems:

  • Real-time electricity usage tracking
  • Appliance-level consumption breakdown
  • Alerts for unusual usage patterns
  • Cost: $100-300
  • Benefit: Identifies energy waste, optimal switching timing

Smart Power Strips:

  • Eliminate phantom load from devices in standby mode
  • Automated scheduling for non-essential devices
  • Cost: $20-50 per strip
  • Savings: $50-150 annually

Strategy 5: Take Advantage of Provider Incentives

Many Houston electricity providers offer additional ways to reduce costs:

Paperless Billing Credits: $2-5/month for going paperless Auto-Pay Discounts: $3-5/month for automatic payment enrollment Referral Programs: $25-100 credit for each successful referral Smart Thermostat Rebates: Free or discounted devices with enrollment Loyalty Rewards: Points programs, anniversary credits, retention offers

Combined Potential: $100-300 annually through stacked incentives


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the cheapest electricity rates in Houston for November 2025?

As of November 2025, the lowest electricity rates in Houston start at 9.1¢ per kWh with providers like Chariot Energy, APG&E, and Gexa Energy offering competitive fixed-rate plans. The average Houston electricity rate is 13.72¢/kWh at 1,000 kWh usage, though rates vary by provider and usage level. These rates are approximately 10.7% lower than the Texas state average and represent some of the most favorable pricing Houston residents have seen since early 2024.

Who are the best electricity providers in Houston right now?

The top-rated Houston electricity providers in November 2025 include TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, and Gexa Energy based on customer satisfaction scores. However, "best" depends on your priorities: Gexa Energy offers the lowest rates (starting at 9.4¢/kWh), TXU Energy scores highest for customer service (4.7/5), and Reliant Energy provides reliable service with strong reviews. Compare at least 3-5 providers for your specific usage level to find the optimal match for your household's needs.

How much electricity does the average Houston household use per month?

The average Houston household uses 1,590 kWh per month according to EnergySage data, which is significantly higher than the Texas average of 1,132 kWh and national average of 899 kWh. Houston's high usage is due to extreme heat, humidity, and year-round air conditioning needs. Summer usage often exceeds 2,000 kWh (June-September), while winter months drop to 800-1,200 kWh (November-February). Your actual usage depends on home size, insulation quality, HVAC efficiency, and household behavior.

What are CenterPoint Energy's TDU delivery charges in Houston?

As of September 2025, CenterPoint Energy charges $4.39 per month plus 4.338¢ per kWh for electricity delivery in Houston. These TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) charges are the same regardless of which retail electricity provider you choose. For the average Houston household using 1,590 kWh/month, TDU charges total approximately $73.36 monthly. TDU rates are set by the Public Utility Commission of Texas and updated every six months in March and September.

Can I switch electricity providers in Houston without penalty?

Yes, if you're on a month-to-month plan or your contract term has ended. However, if you're currently under a fixed-term contract (12, 24, or 36 months), you'll typically face an early termination fee ranging from $100-$300. Check your Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for your specific cancellation terms. November is an excellent time to switch if your contract is ending, as rates are seasonally lower and provider competition is strong.

How much can Houston residents save by switching electricity providers?

Houston residents typically save $350-550 annually by switching from high-rate providers to competitive low-rate plans, according to comparison marketplace data. With average usage of 1,590 kWh/month, switching from a 16¢/kWh plan to a 9.1¢/kWh plan could save approximately $1,312 per year. Even modest improvements from 15¢/kWh to 12¢/kWh save around $573 annually. The exact savings depend on your current rate, usage patterns, and the plan you choose.

Is November a good time to switch electricity providers in Houston?

Yes, November is an excellent time to switch electricity providers in Houston. Fall rates (September-November) typically drop to 9-13¢/kWh as cooling demand decreases and energy consumption falls from summer peaks. Locking in a competitive rate now means you'll benefit throughout the upcoming mild winter months and potentially avoid higher spring/summer rate spikes. Many providers also offer promotional rates during this lower-demand period, making November one of the best months to secure favorable long-term contracts.

What's the difference between fixed-rate and variable-rate electricity plans in Houston?

Fixed-rate plans lock in your electricity rate (¢/kWh) for the contract term (typically 12-36 months), protecting you from market price fluctuations. Variable-rate plans change monthly based on market conditions, which can mean lower rates during off-peak seasons but higher costs during summer peaks. For Houston's volatile market and high summer usage, most consumers benefit from fixed-rate plans that provide budget certainty and protection against price spikes. Variable-rate plans are risky during periods of high demand or wholesale market volatility.


Taking Action: Your November 2025 Game Plan

November 2025 represents an optimal window for Houston residents to secure competitive electricity rates. Here's your step-by-step action plan to maximize savings:

Immediate Actions (This Week)

1. Check Your Current Contract Status

  • Review your latest electricity bill
  • Find contract end date and early termination fee
  • Calculate if switching now (with ETF) saves money vs. waiting

2. Gather Your Usage Data

  • Collect last 12 months of bills
  • Calculate average monthly kWh consumption
  • Identify highest usage months (typically June-September)

3. Compare Providers at Your Usage Level

  • Use our free bill analyzer to compare 50+ Houston providers
  • Request EFL documents for top 3-5 plans
  • Calculate total cost including TDU charges

Decision Phase (Next Few Days)

4. Evaluate Your Top Options

  • Compare total annual cost projections
  • Review customer satisfaction ratings
  • Verify contract terms and early termination fees
  • Check for promotional offers and incentives

5. Make Your Selection

  • Choose plan that balances price, service, and contract terms
  • Verify all fees and charges are clearly disclosed
  • Confirm renewable energy percentage if that's a priority

Enrollment & Transition (Next 1-2 Weeks)

6. Enroll with New Provider

  • Complete online enrollment (typically 10-15 minutes)
  • Provide CenterPoint ESI ID (found on current bill)
  • Select service start date (coordinate with current contract end if applicable)

7. Confirm Switch Process

  • New provider handles notification to your old provider
  • No service interruption during switch
  • CenterPoint continues managing physical electricity delivery
  • Expect first bill from new provider within 30-45 days

8. Monitor Your Savings

  • Track first few bills to confirm rate accuracy
  • Verify TDU charges match PUCT-approved rates
  • Set calendar reminder for contract renewal 45-60 days before end

Ongoing Optimization

9. Implement Usage Reduction Strategies

  • Install programmable or smart thermostat
  • Complete home weatherization projects
  • Replace incandescent bulbs with LEDs
  • Schedule HVAC maintenance before summer

10. Stay Informed on Market Trends

  • Set reminder to check rates 60 days before contract end
  • Monitor PUCT for TDU rate changes (March and September)
  • Subscribe to rate alerts from comparison sites
  • Re-evaluate plan every 12-24 months

Conclusion

Houston's deregulated electricity market offers unprecedented choice and competitive pricing for the city's 2.5 million CenterPoint Energy customers. As of November 2025, residents can access rates starting at 9.1¢/kWh — approximately 10.7% below the Texas state average and 22% below the national average. For the average Houston household using 1,590 kWh monthly, choosing a competitive low-rate provider over a premium-priced plan can save $350-550 annually, with some households achieving savings exceeding $1,000 per year.

Key Takeaways:

Current market favors consumers: November 2025 rates are at seasonal lows due to reduced fall demand and strong provider competition

Significant savings available: Switching from 16¢/kWh to 9.1¢/kWh plans saves Houston households over $1,300 annually at average usage

Provider choice matters: Houston's 50+ retail electricity providers offer dramatically different rates, service levels, and contract terms

Lock in rates now: Securing 12-24 month fixed-rate contracts at current low rates protects against spring/summer price increases

Total cost includes TDU: Always calculate including CenterPoint's $4.39/month + 4.338¢/kWh delivery charges

Compare at your usage level: Advertised rates at 500 or 1,000 kWh may not reflect your actual costs

November is optimal timing: Fall represents the best combination of low rates, strong competition, and favorable contract timing

Next Steps:

Don't let this opportunity pass. Houston electricity rates fluctuate with seasonal demand, and the favorable conditions available in November 2025 won't last indefinitely. Spring and summer typically bring higher rates as cooling demand increases and wholesale electricity costs rise.

Compare Houston electricity rates instantly → Use our free bill analysis tool to see how much you can save by switching to a competitive Houston electricity provider today.

Read our Texas electricity bill guide → Understand every line item on your bill and identify additional savings opportunities.

Compare TXU vs Reliant → See how Houston's two largest providers stack up on rates, service, and value.

Take 15 minutes to compare providers now, and enjoy $350-550 in annual savings for years to come. Your wallet — and your Houston household budget — will thank you.


Sources:

  • PowerWizard Electricity Rates: Current Houston electricity rates and provider comparisons (November 1, 2025)
  • Choose Energy Houston Marketplace: Verified rates for CenterPoint Energy territory (November 2025)
  • Texas Electricity Ratings: Historical rate data and customer satisfaction scores (October 2025)
  • EnergySage Electricity Cost Data: Houston average usage statistics and cost analysis (2025)
  • Energy Information Administration (EIA): Texas and national average electricity rate comparisons (2025)
  • Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT): TDU delivery charge approvals and regulatory data (September 2025)
  • BKV Energy TDU Historical Data: CenterPoint Energy delivery charge history (2024-2025)
  • Quick Electricity TDU Update: Current TDSP rates across Texas providers (2025)

Disclaimer: Electricity rates and provider offerings are subject to change. Rate information verified as current on November 3, 2025. For the most up-to-date rates for your specific Houston location, compare plans using your ZIP code and actual usage history. Total costs include both retail electricity provider charges and CenterPoint Energy TDU delivery fees. Individual savings will vary based on current rate, usage patterns, and selected plan. Always review the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) before enrolling in any electricity plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to the most common questions about Texas electricity rates and providers.

As of November 2025, the lowest electricity rates in Houston start at 9.1¢ per kWh with providers like Chariot Energy, APG&E, and Gexa Energy offering competitive fixed-rate plans. The average Houston electricity rate is 13.72¢/kWh at 1,000 kWh usage, though rates vary by provider and usage level. These rates are approximately 10.7% lower than the Texas state average.

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