Setup an Electricity Account for Your Apartment
Moving to a new apartment in Texas? You're probably wondering how to get an electricity account so you can get your keys…
Find the Cheapest Apartment Electricity
Moving into a new apartment is exciting, but how about figuring out your electricity plan? Not so much.
Luckily, as a renter in Texas, you’ve got the power to choose your electricity provider—no need to stick with just one company.
Thanks to Texas’ deregulated market, dozens of Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete for your business.
But how do you know which one is right for your apartment? There are so many options, and it can be overwhelming.
Don’t worry—I’m here to simplify the process and help you find the best plan for your apartment, lifestyle, and budget.
Why Texas Renters Have the Advantage
In 2002, Texas lawmakers deregulated the energy market, introducing competition to drive down prices and give consumers better options.
As a renter, you can choose from several electricity providers, offering everything from low rates to eco-friendly energy plans.
Whether you’re new to Texas or moving to a different apartment, you’ve got many choices.
Estimating Your Apartment’s Energy Usage
Before comparing plans, it’s essential to understand your electricity usage.
Your usage patterns will determine the most sensible plans and help you avoid high electric bills.
If you’re moving into your first apartment, you probably don’t have historical usage data.
No worries. Here’s a quick estimate based on your apartment’s size:
- Extra-small apartment (less than 500 sq ft): 100-500 kWh per month
- Small apartment (500-999 sq ft): 500-1,000 kWh per month
- Medium-sized apartment (1,000-1,499 sq ft): 1,000-1,500 kWh per month
- Large apartment (1,500-1,999 sq ft): 1,500-2,000 kWh per month
- Extra-large apartment (2,000+ sq ft): 2,000+ kWh per month
If you don’t have usage history, choose a plan with a flat rate and a 60-day guarantee.
That way, you can switch to a better plan if your actual usage differs from your estimate—without penalties.
Switching Plans & Providers
You don’t need to dig out old bills to switch providers.
Use Live Link™ to pull your electricity usage from your current provider instantly.
This allows you to compare plans tailored to your specific usage patterns with no guesswork.
Remember, the lowest rate doesn’t always mean the best deal.
A plan matching your usage can save you more in the long run.
Apartment Electricity Rates in Texas
Now that you know your electricity usage, let’s look at some current apartment electricity rates in Texas.
| City | 500 kWh | 1000 kWh | 2000 kWh |
|---|---|---|---|
| Houston | 11.5¢/kWh | 5.9¢/kWh | 9.4¢/kWh |
| Dallas | 12.6¢/kWh | 6.8¢/kWh | 10.1¢/kWh |
| Arlington | 12.6¢/kWh | 6.8¢/kWh | 10.1¢/kWh |
| Corpus Christi | 12.3¢/kWh | 7.0¢/kWh | 10.4¢/kWh |
| Plano | 12.6¢/kWh | 6.8¢/kWh | 10.1¢/kWh |
| Laredo | 12.3¢/kWh | 7.0¢/kWh | 10.4¢/kWh |
| Garland | 12.6¢/kWh | 6.8¢/kWh | 10.1¢/kWh |
| Irving | 12.6¢/kWh | 6.8¢/kWh | 10.1¢/kWh |
| Katy | 11.5¢/kWh | 5.9¢/kWh | 9.4¢/kWh |
| Grand Prairie | 12.6¢/kWh | 6.8¢/kWh | 10.1¢/kWh |
Moving into my first apartment this weekend after graduating college. Compare Power made it SO easy to compare rates, plans and usage with the plans I will be using. Will be recommending to friends! Thanks!
- Caroline P (TX, United States
How to Choose the Best Plan for Your Apartment
When comparing plans, keep these factors in mind:
- Price per kWh: Look for a plan with rates that match your monthly usage.
- Contract Length: Will you be in your apartment for a year or less? Consider a shorter contract or even month-to-month plans.
- Fixed or Variable Rate: Fixed-rate plans offer stability, while variable-rate plans can change with market demand.
- Renewable Energy: Want to support green energy? Look for plans with a high percentage of renewable sources.
We make it easy to find a plan tailored to your needs.
Enter your zip code and estimated monthly usage into our comparison tool to get a transparent, personalized list of electricity plans.
Prepaid Electricity for Apartments
Are you looking for flexibility or same-day service?
Prepaid electricity plans might be the answer, especially if you’re renting an apartment.
These plans allow you to pay for electricity upfront— no deposit, no long-term contracts, and no hassles.
Why Prepaid Electricity Works for Renters:
- No Deposit: Keep more cash in your pocket when you move in.
- Same-Day Activation: Get your electricity up and running fast.
- Budget Control: Pay only for what you use and easily add funds as needed.
One of the leading providers of prepaid electricity in Texas is Payless Power.
Their plans offer flexibility and same-day service, making it easy for renters to keep their apartments powered up without the burden of significant upfront costs.
Moving and Switching
As a renter, you’ll likely move or switch electricity providers. Here’s how to navigate both scenarios:
- Moving In: Estimate your usage and choose a flexible plan to start.
- Switching Providers: No need to manually gather your usage data. Use Live Link™ to pull your actual electricity usage automatically. This helps you find a plan based on your total annual cost, not just the price per kWh, ensuring you save more in the long run.
Every time you move, start the cycle again by estimating your new place’s energy usage and comparing plans.
Simple Steps to Enroll
Once you’ve found the right plan, signing up is easy:
- Enter Your Apartment Address: Make sure it’s accurate to avoid delays.
- Pick Your Move-in Date: Choose the day you’ll need service to start.
- Submit Your Information: Have billing details ready.
You’ll receive a confirmation email with your new account information.
Your electricity will be ready when you move in, so you won’t have to worry about interruptions.
Choose With Confidence
As a Texas renter, you have the power to choose your electricity provider and find a plan that fits your budget and lifestyle.
Don’t be afraid to shop around and reevaluate your options regularly.
Whether you’re moving or switching providers, Compare Power makes it simple and transparent.
Got questions or need personalized advice? We’re here to help.
Call us today at 1-888-963-9776, and we’ll guide you through the process step-by-step.
Partner Offer
Get Renters Insurance
Renters insurance not only protects your belongings from theft or fire—it can also cover unexpected accidents at your apartment and more.
Get Renters Insurance
Before moving into your new Texas apartment, remember to get renters insurance. Most leases require it, and it can protect your belongings from theft, fire, water damage, and more risks that your landlord’s policy won’t cover. Lemonade offers customized renters insurance starting at $5/month. Get a discounted quote today so you’re covered when you move in.
Electric Companies for Apartments
Showing 30 active providers · residential. Sorted by Google rating.
Apartment Electricity FAQs
- What if I move out before my electricity contract is up?
- When moving out in Texas, you can cancel an electricity contract without penalty.
- Can I transfer my electricity plan to my new apartment?
- In most cases, yes. You can transfer your plan if your provider services your new address. Should you transfer? No, your new home is likely a different size and requires different usage. Instead of transferring service, use the opportunity to shop for a lower rate plan.
- How long does it take to get electricity turned on in an apartment?
- In most cases, you can get power turned on the same day as long as you enroll for service before 2 p.m.
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