3 minute read • Graham Lumley • Last update October 2024
When it comes to shopping for electricity plans in Texas, our number one recommendation is to always, always, always read the Electricity Facts Label before making a decision.
Understanding how to read an Electricity Facts Label is integral to finding and selecting the energy plan that’s right for you.
In Texas, an Electricity Facts Label (EFL) is a standardized document provided by electricity providers to inform consumers about the details of their electricity plans. They are meant to help shoppers compare plans between providers.
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) mandates these documents and standardizes their layout. When you check an EFL, electricity plan details are presented consistently, allowing for easier comparison. Key information, such as the average price kWh and the energy charge, is clearly noted. This standardization gives consumers a better idea of how these plan details impact their bills. While EFLs from different companies may vary slightly, their overall structure looks similar.
EFLs include information such as the price per kilowatt-hour, contract terms, cancellation fees, renewable energy content, and customer service contact details. The EFL aims to empower consumers with transparent and comparable information, enabling them to make well-informed decisions when choosing an electricity plan in the deregulated energy market of Texas.
When you examine an Electricity Facts Label, electricity costs can be estimated using this formula:
Energy Bill = kWh Usage x (Energy Rate + TDU Delivery Rate) + TDU Monthly Fee
Click this link to use our custom energy bill calculator. Use it to compare potential bills across competitor EFLs along with your household’s historical monthly kWh usage.
Electricity providers will include links to the Electricity Facts label document on each plan’s listing on their website. After you enroll, you will receive the EFL via paper mail or to your email inbox, depending on your chosen communication preferences.
Reading the Electricity Facts Label before enrolling is crucial to understanding your expected electricity costs. Before making a decision, pay attention to the energy charge, potential base charges or usage fees, cancellation fees, and other details that may impact your bill. Compare multiple plans to ensure you’re getting the best deal for your needs.
Interested in signing up for a cheap, simple fixed rate plan with BKV Energy? Click this link and enter your zip code to explore prices in your area.
Choose a Bluebonnet plan to enjoy electricity with the following benefits:
Texans can save up to $800 per year by choosing BKV Energy. Enter your zip code to explore simple, fixed-rate energy plans for homeowners and renters in Texas.
