The Average Electric Bill in Texas Might Surprise You
| Understanding Texas Electricity
The Average Electric Bill in Texas Might Surprise You
Did you know the average Texan shells out about $179 a month for electricity? That’s $2,148 a year – just a hair higher than the national average. With all this Texas heat and sprawling homes, it’s no wonder we’re burning through more energy than most. But don’t fret. There are plenty of ways to bring your monthly bill down.
What Factors Influence Electric Bills in Texas?
Bigger Homes Mean Bigger Bills
Everything’s bigger in Texas, including our houses. The average Texas home measures 2,170 square feet, and that size needs a lot of energy to keep cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
1-bedroom apartment: $53 electric bill
2-bedroom apartment: $82 electric bill
1,500 sq. ft. home: $123 electric bill
3,000 sq. ft. home: $246 electric bill
Summer Sizzles and Winter Chills
Texas weather is as wild as a rodeo. Scorching summers and chilly winters mean we’re cranking the A/C and heat more than most folks. During those triple-digit summer days, energy demand shoots up, and so do electricity rates. In Austin alone, homes’ summer energy use often tops 1,200 kWh per month!
Rising Fuel Costs
Electricity prices aren’t just about usage, they’re also tied to fuel costs, too. When natural gas prices rise, energy companies pass those costs on to us. That’s why your per-kWh rate might feel like it can sneak up on you.
Average Electric Bills in Texas Cities
Your location plays a big role in what you’ll pay. Smaller towns and rural areas might see different rates, but to give you a general idea, here’s a peek at some of our major cities.
Houston: $155.74 electric bill
San Antonio: $160.26 electric bill
Dallas: $128.50 electric bill
Austin: $147.04 electric bill
El Paso: $124.36 electric bill
How to Lower Your Electric Bill in Texas
Seal and Insulate Your Home
Keep your cool – or your heat – inside where it belongs! Seal up those drafty windows, doors, and attic spaces. A little weatherstripping or caulk can go a long way in cutting energy waste.
Smart Thermostats for Smart Savings
Consider investing in a programmable thermostat. Set it a few degrees higher in the summer when you’re out, and let it work its magic. Some smart thermostats even learn your habits and adjust the temperature in your home automatically.
Shift Your Energy Use
Energy is pricier during peak times (afternoon and early evening). Try running your dishwasher, laundry, or even charging your electric vehicle during off-peak hours. This is called “Demand Response,” and it can save you some serious dough.
Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances
Switching to ENERGY STAR® appliances like fridges, washers, and dryers can make a big dent in your bill. They use less power and are worth the extra cost, over the long term.
Use Natural Light
Texas gets plenty of sunshine, so why not use it? Open up those curtains during the day to light and warm your home naturally. Skylights and lighter wall colors can also brighten things up.
Renewable Energy Options and Incentives
Go Solar
Solar panels are a great way to cut or even eliminate your electric bill. The average Texan would need a 9.9 kW system to offset 100% of their annual usage.
Switch Providers
In Texas, you can shop around for energy providers. Look for a fixed-rate plan without gimmicks like free nights or weekends that might end up costing you more overall. Check out Energy Texas’ simple, transparent plans at EnergyTexas.com.
Take Advantage of Discounts
Signing up for AutoPay and paperless billing can snag several dollars off each month. It’s a win for your wallet and the planet!
The Bottom Line
Texas energy bills might seem high, but with a few smart moves like sealing up your home, shifting your energy use, and exploring renewable options, you can cut costs.
FAQ
How much is electricity per month in Texas?
The average electricity bill in Texas runs about $179 a month. This can vary depending on your home’s size, the rate your energy provider charges per kilowatt hour, and where you’ve put down roots in this big state.
What are some simple ways to cut my average utility bill in Texas?
First off, seal up those drafty spots and insulate your home well. Use natural light to brighten things up, and save energy-heavy tasks like laundry and dishwashing for off-peak hours. Investing in a programmable thermostat or smart appliances can help too.
Can I switch my energy provider to lower my average electricity bill in Texas?
Absolutely! Shop around for a provider that suits your lifestyle. If you’re under contract, watch out for early termination fees – so make sure that you won’t get blindsided by those. Some providers even offer bill credits if you switch, or a 30 day test drive so you can try them risk-free for a month.