So I'm finally leaving the nest after 25 years. I close next week so I need to start shopping for utility providers. The only problem is I don't know what to looks for when it comes to electric, gas etc providers. How do I determine what is a good price? Where can I find the best deals? It'll just be me and my girlfriend so I don't think we will use much. Any help is very much appreciated.
Just pick whoever is cheap. Some providers give you a lower rate once you go over a certain usage. You'll probably want to avoid that if its just the two of you.
We have an in house energy guy --- Juan Valdez I believe. You moving in an apartment or a rental house?
goto powertochoose.com, enter you zip code and pick the provider with the best rate, usually at the top. easy breezy
I actually bought a home. And I've looked into that website but some of those companies at the top I never even heard of.
We're closing on the 22nd. After hours of research, yesterday I signed up with Brilliant Energy. They have a free A/C tune-up, and waive the base charge of $10.99 each month you go over 999 kwh. On top of that, they were the cheapest in my area. Congrats, and good luck!
I signed up under TriEagle recently. Works for me, and there are no hidden fees or anything. The weekly usage report is legit but as others have stated, check out powertochoose Stay away from Constellation aka StarTex
This is who I have. I opted for a 36 month contract. Rate is OK, but only 4.99 fee for the month and a straight rate after that. Will be perfect for me in the winter when I'm only using 2-300 kwh. In the end, probably all evens out.
It really doesn't matter. Just look for reviews and make sure they're not completely clueless when it comes to billing, as that is all that you'll really need to deal with them on. No matter who you choose, Centerpoint provides the electricity and is who you call in case of a power outage.
First time moving out and you bought a house with your girlfriend? Good luck. And I used a "Power Broker" for my house. He gave me a good rate with Texpo. I contact him if I ever have any issues (I haven't) and he deals with the electricity company. I can give you his phone if you'd like.
A everyone has said: Power to Choose and don't forget about mytruecost.com. The Power to Choose website is with the Texas PUCT and My True Cost is through Centerpoint Energy. Both sites will be helpful for you. Just remember that all power will come in at the same voltage and amperage so don't worry about the power "quality" of the company. Centerpoint delivers the power and the company/retailer that you select will just handle your billing and customer service. You should pick the plan that makes the most financial sense, AKA the cheapest, for you. Whatever you do don't select a variable rate plan. It will be cheaper some months but others you will pay 15 cents per kwh. I fell for it when I moved out last year and had a $130 bill in November in a 530 square foot apartment.
My initial thought was going with Direct Energy but I may just keep shopping around. Anyone have experience with them?
I used them the last time I rented and didn't have any issues. I was using less than 1000 KWh and I was on a month to month plan.
