Are you a Texan looking to choose the best electricity provider for your home? We understand the importance of making an informed decision when it comes to your energy needs. In this article, we'll compare two popular energy providers in Texas: TXU Energy and Express Energy. However, before we delve into the details, let's introduce you to BKV Energy (or BKVE for short), your honest and transparent alternative.
BKV Energy is all about energy made fair. In every aspect, we strive to bring honesty and simplicity to the communities and the people we serve. At BKV Energy, customers don't have to pick between cleaner or more affordable. They have the power to choose both. We give customers the knowledge to make informed decisions about their energy bill AND their energy company.
Now, let's compare TXU Energy and Express Energy in various aspects:
BKV Energy's mission, as you've just read, is centered around bringing fairness, honesty, and simplicity back to energy for Texans. We believe in giving you the power to choose without gimmicks.
BKV Energy, while newer to the scene, serves all of Texas with a commitment to transparent pricing and clear terms. Learn more >
Both TXU and Express Energy offer a variety of plans, some of which employ gimmicks to entice customers. These gimmicks can sometimes end up costing you more in the long run due to hidden fees and seasonal pricing changes.
In contrast, BKV Energy offers simple, no-gimmick plans, including Simple Fixed Rate, Solar Buyback, and 100% Renewable Energy plans.
Pricing in your actual area may differ, but for comparison sake we look at pricing in the Houston area:
In contrast, BKV Energy offers the Bluebonnet 13 plan, a simple (no gimmicks) plan priced at 13.9¢ cents per kWh based on an average of 2,000 kWh usage per month.
In conclusion, while TXU Energy and Express Energy are popular choices for electricity providers in Texas; they often use gimmick-laden plans that can end up costing you more in the long run. In contrast, BKV Energy strives to bring honesty and simplicity to the communities and people it serves, offering transparent pricing, clear terms, and no hidden fees or surprise charges. Make the right choice for your energy needs and choose BKV Energy for a fair and honest energy experience.
As of 11/21/24, we’ve collected the full list of 22 currently available TXU Energy plans and 4 Express Energy plans and listed their rates, terms, and the type of gimmick or standard plan each falls into. These plans are based on an average monthly usage of 2,000 kWh, or what you might use for a typical residential home.
BKV’s lowest rate plan is 13.9¢ per kWh for the Bluebonnet 13 plan - a 100% Renewable no-gimmicks plan.
Compare that to the lowest rate plan from TXU Energy which is currently the base fee plan at 15.2¢ per kWh for a term of 12 months. This plan falls into the following categories: Base Fee (gimmick), Bill Credits (gimmick). And also check that against Express Energy lowest rate plan, the base fee plan at 15.2¢ per kWh - a Base Fee (gimmick), Bill Credits (gimmick) type of plan. Gimmick plans may lead to prices not being what you expect in the long run.
The average rate among all TXU Energy plans is currently 16.2¢ per kWh, including all term lengths available. The average rate among all Express Energy plans is currently 15.2¢ per kWh, including all term lengths available.
Check out the tables below to compare TXU Energy vs Express Energy plans and rates for different standard electric contract terms:
| Providers | Plans | Plan Term | Plan Type(s) | Est. Price Per kWh |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BKV Energy |
Bluebonnet 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Simple Fixed Rate | 14¢/kWh |
BKV Energy |
Bluebonnet Green 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Full Renewable , Simple Fixed Rate | 14.2¢/kWh |
| Express Energy | Express 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 15¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Simple Value 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 15.5¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Simple Rate 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 16.5¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | TXU Energy Simple Rate 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 17.5¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Texas Choice 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 17.9¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Season Pass 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 17.9¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Free Nights & Solar Days 12 (8 pm) (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) , Free Nights (Gimmick Plan) | 18.2¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Solar Buyback Match 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 18.2¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Live Your Free 12 (EFL) | 12 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 18.5¢/kWh |
| Providers | Plans | Plan Term | Plan Type(s) | Est. Price Per kWh |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BKV Energy |
Bluebonnet 24 (EFL) | 24 Months | Simple Fixed Rate | 14¢/kWh |
BKV Energy |
Bluebonnet Green 24 (EFL) | 24 Months | Full Renewable , Simple Fixed Rate | 14.3¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Free Nights & Solar Days 24 (8 pm) (EFL) | 24 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) , Free Nights (Gimmick Plan) | 18.5¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Texas Choice 24 (EFL) | 24 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 18.9¢/kWh |
| Providers | Plans | Plan Term | Plan Type(s) | Est. Price Per kWh |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BKV Energy |
Bluebonnet 36 (EFL) | 36 Months | Simple Fixed Rate | 14¢/kWh |
BKV Energy |
Bluebonnet Green 36 (EFL) | 36 Months | Full Renewable , Simple Fixed Rate | 14.3¢/kWh |
| Express Energy | Express 36 (EFL) | 36 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 15.2¢/kWh |
| TXU Energy | Solar Buyback Match 36 (EFL) | 36 Months | Base Fee (Gimmick Plan) | 16.9¢/kWh |
*Rates and plans may vary, make sure to check the TXU Energy and Express Energy websites for the latest information
Many providers offer plans that seem cheap when you enroll, but end up costing a lot more later on.
If you don’t consider changes in your home’s seasonal usage, you could end up paying more…much more.
A simple fixed rate plan is most often the safest bet. We can help you choose the right one!
Before you select an electricity plan, it’s important to understand more about how the different types of plans offered by providers like TXU and Express work. First, you need to know how to identify a Gimmicky Plan.
Standard electricity plans are those you can trust to offer just what they say, without tricks that mislead you about the ultimate price you’ll pay on your electrical bill. However, many providers use “Gimmicky” plans to grab your attention. The prices seem very cheap at first glance, but when you dive a bit deeper you may end up paying much more than you’d expect!
Examples of standard plans include Simple Fixed Rate, Variable Rate, Solar Buyback, and 100% Renewable Energy plans - but only if they don’t come with certain gimmicks attached. Gimmicky plans typically include “Bullseye” Plans, plans with a Base Fee, EV Charging plans, plans that offer Bill Credits, and Free Nights or Free Weekends.
Let’s see how Express Energy and TXU Energy plans stack up, and what types each company offers currently…
| Provider / Type of Plan | TXU | EXPRESS | BKVE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
100% Renewable
A plan that only uses renewable sources. |
TXU does not currently offer gimmick-free Full Renewable plans. | Express does not currently offer gimmick-free Full Renewable plans. |
3 Plans:
BKV Energy offers 3 Full Renewable plans with no gimmicks: |
| Simple Fixed Rate
A Simple Fixed Rate plan is a fixed rate plan that has no other gimmicks associated with it (see Gimmick Plans below). |
9 Plans:
TXU offers 9 Fixed Rate plans, but none of them are “simple” as they have either a base fee gimmick attached.
|
4 Plans:
Express offers 4 Fixed Rate plans, but none of them are “simple” as they have either a base fee gimmick attached.
|
7 Plans:
BKV Energy offers 7 Simple Fixed Rate plans with no gimmicks: |
|
Solar Buyback
When the electricity company credits you for the excess energy your solar panels generate. |
TXU does not currently offer Solar Buyback plans. | Express does not currently offer Solar Buyback plans. |
BKV Energy may be offering Solar Buyback plans in the future - if it’s best for our customers! Check Out BKVE Plans |
|
Variable Rate
The price you pay per kilowatt-hour for electricity may be determined by the market or other factors considered by the retail energy supplier. Since the market cost of electricity changes frequently, your rates could too. |
TXU does not currently offer Variable Rate plans. | Express does not currently offer Variable Rate plans. |
BKV Energy doesn’t offer Variable Rate plans because changing market conditions can lead to extremely volatile energy bills. To help you save, we only offer simple fixed rate plans. Check Out BKVE Plans |
| Provider / Type of Plan | TXU | EXPRESS | BKVE |
|---|---|---|---|
|
EV Charging
EV charging plans are gimmicky because while you're receiving lower cost or free energy at night to charge your vehicle, your kWh rate during the day is higher than average. 70% of your energy consumption occurs during the daytime, so your bill is higher even with those free hours. Learn More |
TXU does not have plans with a EV Charging currently. | Express does not have plans with a EV Charging currently. | No Gimmicks
BKV Energy does not offer gimmicky EV charging plans because most homeowners will end up spending more on electricity thanks to elevated daytime kWh rates, even with the free or reduced overnight prices. Check Out BKVE Plans |
|
Base Fee
Base fee plans are gimmicky because they add an extra charge to your bill regardless of how much energy you consume throughout the month. Learn More |
12 Plans:
TXU has 12 plans that use the Base Fee gimmick.
|
2 Plans:
Express has 2 plans that use the Base Fee gimmick.
|
No Gimmicks
BKV Energy plans don't include base fees because instead of adding an extra fee to your bill, we only charge for the energy you actually consume. Check Out BKVE Plans |
|
Bill Credit
Bill credit plans are gimmicky because they tease a reward when you use a specific amount of energy. When you don't hit the mark, your rates go up significantly making your bill much higher. Learn More |
TXU does not have plans with a Bill Credit currently. | Express does not have plans with a Bill Credit currently. |
No Gimmicks
BKV Energy does not offer plans with bill credits because we prefer to offer a simple fixed rate instead. Most gimmicky bill credit plans come with higher kWh rates so you end up with a higher bill even with the credit applied. Check Out BKVE Plans |
|
Bullseye
Bullseye plans lead with a low average price, but higher prices are hidden in the EFL. That means if you use the wrong amount of energy, your bill can skyrocket. |
TXU does not have plans with a Bullseye currently. | Express does not have plans with a Bullseye currently. |
No Gimmicks
BKV Energy does not offer gimmicky bullseye plans because we prefer to offer a simple fixed plan where your kWh rate remains steady at all usage levels. Check Out BKVE Plans |
|
Free Nights
Free nights plans are gimmicky because your daytime rate can be 5 to 10 cents higher per kWh compared to a simple fixed rate plan. This creates much higher energy bills during the summer in Texas. Learn More |
2 Plans:
TXU has 2 plans that use the Free Nights gimmick.
|
Express does not have plans with a Free Nights currently. |
No Gimmicks
BKV Energy does not offer gimmicky free nights plans because most Texans end up spending more on electricity thanks to elevated daytime kWh rates, even with the free overnight prices. Check Out BKVE Plans |
|
Free Weekends
Free weekends plans are gimmicky because they increase your price per kWh during the week to make up for your free usage over the weekend. Plus, the window of time your energy is "free" might be shorter than you expect. Learn More |
TXU does not have plans with a Free Weekends currently. | Express does not have plans with a Free Weekends currently. |
No Gimmicks
BKV Energy does not offer gimmicky free weekends plans because most Texans end up spending more on energy due to elevated weekday kWh rates, even with free weekends. Check Out BKVE Plans |
"There are a ton of ways that these electricity companies can trick people. BKV Energy was among the clearest, and easiest to digest. This is the type of company I want to do business with."
- M.K.
"Great customer service and look forward to being a long time customer. Saved over $200 a month transferring from Reliant."
- B.J.
"Great electric company. They are very fair and honest with their pricing. Most providers have tricky price structures that make it hard to know what your bill will be. But with BKV Energy you know exactly what you will get. Highly recommend!"
- N.T.
"Informative website, seamless sign-up, and excellent customer service. I'm thrilled we locked in such a good rate for an extended period of time. I'm looking forward to saving extra money this summer."
- E.F.
While TXU and Express offer estimated 2000 kWh plans for Houston for as much as 15.0¢ kWh, BKVE has 12, 24 and 36 month plans for as low as 14.1¢ kWh - and no gimmicks!
What better way to compare companies than a simple side-by-side dust up of TXU and Express. TXU is headquartered in Irving and Express’s central offices are in Houston. Headed by CEO Scott A. Hudson, TXU was founded in 2002. Express’s chief executive is Stuart Bodden, and the company was founded in the year 2000.
| TXU Energy | Express Energy |
|---|---|
| 6555 Sierra Drive, Irving, 75039 | 9800 Richmond Ave, Houston, 77042 |
| CUSTOMERS: 1.7 million customers |
CUSTOMERS: an unreported number of customers |
| FOUNDED: 2002 |
FOUNDED: 2000 |
| CEO: Scott A. Hudson |
CEO: Stuart Bodden |
| COVERAGE AREAS: Houston, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth, Arlington, Corpus Christi, Plano, Irving, Laredo, Garland and many more |
COVERAGE AREAS: Houston, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth, Arlington, Corpus Christi, Plano, Irving, Laredo, Garland, and more |
| PUCT NUMBER: 10004 |
PUCT NUMBER: 10041 |
| COMPANY BIO: TXU Energy, with roots dating back to 1882 as the Dallas Electric Lighting Company, has a rich history in powering North Texas. It has been a witness and contributor to major milestones in the region, from the introduction of porch lights to air conditioning and electric cars. Today, TXU Energy is the state's leading retail electric provider since the opening of the Texas competitive electricity market in 2002. The company's commitment to its heritage is evident in its continuous efforts to improve communities and maintain a customer-centric approach. The corporate office of TXU Energy is located at 6555 Sierra Drive, Irving, TX 75039. This strategic location facilitates the management of their widespread operations and customer service within Texas. Customers can contact TXU Energy for support and inquiries at 800-818-6132. TXU Energy's executive leadership team comprises individuals with significant experience in the energy sector. Scott A. Hudson serves as the President, leading the company in providing innovative energy solutions and exceptional customer service. The mission statement of TXU Energy emphasizes their long-standing history of doing right by their customers, focusing on straightforward electricity plans with transparent pricing. The company's responsibility extends beyond providing basic services, showcasing a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and community engagement. TXU Energy offers a variety of electricity plans tailored to different needs. These include options for automatic discounts, seasonal savings, free energy during specific periods, and renewable energy choices. Electric vehicle owners can benefit from plans offering 100% free EV charging at specific times. Solar and renewable energy plans are available, with or without solar panels, underlining TXU Energy's commitment to sustainable energy solutions. Other offerings include monthly rewards, business plans with price-protected rates, and flexible plans for apartment living. All their term plans come with a Price Protect Promise, ensuring customers are shielded from fluctuating energy rates and unpredictable weather conditions. Additionally, the TXU Energy app provides a convenient way for customers to manage their electricity usage and bills. In summary, TXU Energy stands as a significant player in Texas's electricity market, with a history spanning over a century. Its leadership team's expertise, combined with a wide array of electricity plans and a commitment to customer satisfaction and community improvement, positions TXU Energy as a reliable and forward-thinking energy provider in the state. |
COMPANY BIO: Express Energy, founded in 2006, is a reputable provider in Texas known for offering some of the cheapest electricity rates. They are a subsidiary of Vistra Energy, a Fortune 500 company, and are known for their price-protected plans and an Express Satisfaction Guarantee. Express Energy offers a variety of low-cost electricity plans, including both traditional and renewable energy plans, aiming to reduce carbon emissions. Their approach is characterized by simplicity, which allows them to offer lower energy rates. They offer fixed-rate energy plans with various term lengths, providing customers with predictable billing and price protection. The cancellation fees for their plans are quite reasonable, with only $20/month remaining on the contract, and they also offer a 30-day Satisfaction Guarantee. Express Energy's headquarters can be contacted at 9800 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77042. For inquiries or to sign up for a plan, customers can contact their corporate headquarters at 844-361-2080. As a retail electricity provider (REP), Express Energy serves residential energy customers across Texas, marketing itself as a “no-frills” energy provider. It's worth noting that since Express Energy is owned by Value Based Brands, the leadership and mission statement might align with those of its parent company, Vistra Energy. For more detailed information about their executive team, including CEO Stuart Bodden, and mission, you can contact Express Energy directly or visit their official website, www.myexpressenergy.com. |