3 minute read • Graham Lumley • Last update February 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.
These documents are required by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). They are also responsible for standardizing the layout of these documents. EFLs from different companies are not identical, but will look rather 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.
Here’s the formula for calculating an energy bill from a Electricity Facts Label:
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.
When shopping for electricity, providers will include links to the Electricity Facts Label document on the listing for each plan on their website. After you enroll, you will receive the EFL via paper mail or to your email inbox, depending on the communication settings you indicate while signing up.
It’s important to read the Electricity Facts Label before enrolling in a plan so you can gain a solid grasp of what you will be expected to pay for electricity. Before making a decision, look out for the energy charge, potential base charges or usage fees, cancellation fees, and other important details that will impact your bill. Compare multiple plans against each other to be sure you’re getting the best deal.
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 $500 per year by choosing BKV Energy. Enter your zip code to explore simple, fixed-rate energy plans for homeowners and renters in Texas.
