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Expert-Picked Residential Electricity Plans in McAllen
Overview of McAllen, TX Electricity Rates
- Electricity Rates in McAllen start at 7.3¢ and can go up to 19.2¢ per kWh
- The average electricity rate in McAllen at the 1,000 kWh usage is 14.4¢ per kWh
- McAllen areas served by AEP Texas Central participate in Texas’s deregulated energy market, meaning those residents can choose their retail electricity provider (REP).
- Residents of McAllen, TX, can choose from a variety of electricity plans, including fixed-rate, variable-rate, time-of-use, green energy, solar buyback, prepaid, and no-deposit options.
- When choosing an electricity plan, you should always read the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for full contract and pricing details, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
- Use Power Wizard’s smart comparison tool to view local electricity plans and providers side by side.
Current Electricity Rates in McAllen, TX
There’s no shortage of McAllen electricity providers, each with its own terms and offerings to sort through. The Power Wizard energy experts have handpicked a few popular local providers to help fuel your search.
| Plan Name | ¢/kWh | Est. Bill | Term | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| APG&E - SimpleSaver 12 | 7.3¢ | $73.00 | 12 mos. | 4.8 |
| Energy Texas - The Lone Saver Plus 12 | 7.4¢ | $74.30 | 12 mos. | 4.7 |
| Rhythm Energy - Rhythm Max Saver 12 | 7.4¢ | $74.30 | 12 mos. | 4.8 |
| Chariot Energy - GridPlus 12 | 7.8¢ | $78.00 | 12 mos. | 4.4 |
| Frontier Utilities - Frontier Saver Plus 12 | 8.6¢ | $86.00 | 12 mos. | 4.8 |
| Gexa Energy - Gexa Eco Saver Plus 12 | 8.7¢ | $87.00 | 12 mos. | 5 |
| Companion Energy - Companion Savings + Benefits 12 | 8.7¢ | $87.00 | 12 mos. | 4.3 |
| Octopus Energy - Octopus Lite 12 | 13.7¢ | $136.70 | 12 mos. | 4.1 |
| BKV Energy - Lantana 12 | 13.7¢ | $137.00 | 12 mos. | 4.8 |
| Atlantex Power - Luminous 12 | 15.0¢ | $149.80 | 12 mos. | 3.8 |
McAllen Average Electricity Rates
Electricity rates in McAllen can vary based on factors such as your electricity provider, plan type, and monthly energy usage. While average rates provide a helpful snapshot of the local market, the amount you pay each month depends largely on how much electricity your household consumes. The charts below highlight average electricity rates in McAllen and compare pricing at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh usage levels, giving you a better understanding of how costs can change as your energy usage increases.
| Monthly usage | Average rate | Estimated Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|
| 500 kWh | 17.6¢/kWh | $88.36 |
| 1,000 kWh | 14.4¢/kWh | $144.69 |
| 2,000 kWh | 15.1¢/kWh | $302.54 |
Deregulation in Action: How McAllen Residents Gained the Power to Choose
Since Texas deregulated most of its electricity market in 2002, some McAllen residents zoned to deregulated areas have been able to choose their electricity provider instead of being locked into Magic Valley Electric Co-op. In the deregulated areas of McAllen, this shift has opened up a competitive marketplace with dozens of providers offering a wide range of plan options. That means you can shop around for a better rate, plan type, or contract length.
How to Switch Electric Companies in McAllen: Step-by-Step Guide
Switching electricity providers in McAllen, TX, doesn’t have to be complicated. Power Wizard makes it easy to find a better plan without the headaches.
- Check Your Current Contract: Before deciding to switch electricity providers, check your current contract to see if there’s an Early Termination Fee (ETF). In some cases, paying an ETF may be worth the money you’ll save with a new electricity plan.
- Enter Your ZIP Code: Pop your ZIP code into the Power Wizard comparison tool to instantly view dozens of available REPs and electricity plans.
- Filter Your Results: Use our filtering tools to make finding the perfect plan easier.
- Choose and Enroll: Select the electricity plan and provider that best suits your needs, lifestyle, and budget, and then enroll directly through the Power Wizard website. Your new REP will handle the rest with minimal disruption to your service.
Pro Tip
Electricity prices are often lower during periods of milder weather, such as spring or fall, when demand typically decreases. Comparing plans during these seasons may help you find competitively priced rates.
Why Your Utility Isn’t Your Provider—A Quick Guide for McAllen
In McAllen, your electricity is handled by two different parties: a utility and a retail electricity provider. Your utility—AEP Texas Central—is in charge of delivering electricity to your home, maintaining the poles and power lines, and handling outages. You cannot choose your utility; it’s assigned by location. If you need to contact AEP Texas Central due to an outage, you can call them at 877-373-4858.
Your REP, on the other hand, is the company from which you purchase your electricity. They set your rate, offer different plan options, and send your bill each month.
Pro Tip
Your monthly energy bill will include Transmission and Distribution Service Provider (TDSP) fees. AEP Texas Central’s current delivery fees include a $3.24 monthly base charge and a $0.0583 per-kWh energy charge. These are regulated charges that update a few times throughout the year, but they stay the same across REPs.
Exploring Your McAllen Electricity Plan Options
If you’re living in an apartment near La Plaza Mall, your energy needs are probably a little different than a family living in a home in Sharyland. Understanding the types of electricity plans available in McAllen can help you find one that fits your lifestyle.
| Plan Type | Best For | Price Stability | Contract Length | Risk Level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fixed-Rate | Households that want predictable pricing and protection from rate fluctuations | High | Typically 3-36 months | Low |
| Variable-Rate | Short-term residents or customers who want month-to-month flexibility | Low | Month-to-month | High |
| Prepaid/No-Deposit | Customers who want to avoid deposits or credit checks | Low | Usually month-to-month | Medium |
| Time-of-Use | Households that can shift usage to off-peak hours | Medium | Varies, often 3-36 months | Medium |
| Green Energy | Residents who want to support renewable energy sources | Medium-High | Varies, often 3-36 months | Low |
| Solar Buyback | Homeowners with solar panels who want bill credits for excess energy | Medium | Varies, often 3-36 months | Low-Medium |
Fixed-Rate Plans
Fixed-rate electricity plans lock in the price you pay per kWh for the contract term, protecting you from rate fluctuations. Your total monthly bill can still vary based on how much electricity you use and any TDSP charges.
| Plan Name | ¢/kWh | Est. Bill | Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| Atlantex Power - Luminous 12 | 13.2¢ | $132.40 | 12 mos. |
| Rhythm Energy - PowerShift Payback 12 | 13.3¢ | $133.10 | 12 mos. |
| Energy Texas - Come & Take It 12 | 13.4¢ | $133.60 | 12 mos. |
| APG&E - True Classic 12 | 13.5¢ | $135.00 | 12 mos. |
| Chariot Energy - Solarize 12 | 13.7¢ | $137.00 | 12 mos. |
Variable-Rate Plans
Variable-price plans are month-to-month plans with rates that can change depending on the market and other factors.
Prepaid/No-Deposit Plans
With prepaid/no-deposit plans you can skip the deposit and pay as you go. These plans are great if you want to avoid credit checks or have more control over your monthly energy spending.
| Plan Name | ¢/kWh | Est. Bill | Term | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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Time-of-Use Plans
Time-of-use plans charge lower energy rates during designated off-peak hours (often nights or weekends) and higher rates during peak hours.
| Plan Name | ¢/kWh | Est. Bill | Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chariot Energy - Free Nights 12 | 14.3¢ | $143.00 | 12 mos. |
| Frontier Utilities - Frontier Free Weekends Preferred 12 | 17.8¢ | $178.00 | 12 mos. |
| Gexa Energy - Free 3 Day Weekends Preferred 12 | 19.2¢ | $192.00 | 12 mos. |
Green Energy Plans
Green energy plans support renewable energy by choosing a plan powered by sources like wind, solar, hydro, and more.
| Plan Name | ¢/kWh | Est. Bill | Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chariot Energy - GridPlus 12 | 7.4¢ | $74.00 | 12 mos. |
| Rhythm Energy - PowerShift Payback 12 | 13.3¢ | $133.10 | 12 mos. |
| Energy Texas - Bigger Than Texas 24 | 14.1¢ | $140.60 | 24 mos. |
| Gexa Energy - Gexa Light Saver 12 | 15.4¢ | $154.00 | 12 mos. |
| Octopus Energy - Octo Volt 24 | 16.8¢ | $168.40 | 24 mos. |
Solar Buyback Plans
Solar buyback plans let you earn bill credits for the excess energy you send back to the grid.
| Plan Name | ¢/kWh | Est. Bill | Term |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chariot Energy - Shine 36 | 15.5¢ | $155.00 | 36 mos. |
| Gexa Energy - Gexa Solar Export Saver 12 | 17.1¢ | $171.00 | 12 mos. |
How to Choose the Best Electricity Provider in McAllen
Not all electricity providers offer the same value, even if the rates look similar. Here’s what to consider when comparing providers:
- Plan Type: The type of electricity plan you choose should match your energy needs, lifestyle, and budget. Review each plan carefully before enrolling to make sure it will work for you, not against you.
- Contract Length: Look at how long the electricity plan lasts. Short-term plans offer flexibility, and long-term plans often come with lower rates. Match your contract to your living situation.
- Early Termination Fees (ETFs): If you cancel your contract early, you may be charged a fee. Make sure to check the terms before committing.
- Monthly Usage: Some plans are designed for higher or lower usage levels. Ensure the pricing structure aligns with your typical electricity usage.
- Deposit Requirements: You may need to pay a depost if you are not able to meet the credit criteria set by the REP. If you want to skip upfront costs, consider a no-deposit plan or prepaid plan that does not require a credit check.
- Green Energy Options: Many providers offer plans backed by wind, solar, hydro, or other renewable power sources. This is a good choice if you want to support renewable energy without changing your power usage habits.
- Customer Support and Reviews: Strong customer service can make a big difference when you need help. Look at each provider’s online reviews and Power Wizard score.
New Resident Utility Guide: Helpful Set-Up and Local Tips
Moving can be stressful, and the last thing you need is to spend hours researching local utilities. The Power Wizard energy experts have put together a utility setup guide to help you settle into your McAllen home faster.
Natural Gas Service
The natural gas provider in McAllen is Texas Gas Service. For questions or to start service, you can call them at (800) 700-2443 Monday through Friday from 7 am to 7 pm CST.
Water and Sewer
Water and sewer services are provided by McAllen Public Utilities. You can set up service by calling (956) 681-1600 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm CST.
Trash & Recycling
McAllen Public Works handles residential trash and recycling services for the city. Residents can call them at (956) 681-4000 Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5 pm CST.
McAllen Electricity FAQ
Yes, you can switch electric companies at any time in McAllen, but you may have to pay an Early Termination Fee (ETF) if you switch before your current contract ends. If you’re moving or your current contract ends within 14 days, your ETF will be waived. In some cases, paying an ETF may be worth the savings you could get with a new retail electricity provider.
Whether you can take your electricity plan with you when you move depends on your provider’s rules and service area. Even if your plan can be transferred, it may be worth using Power Wizard to compare your options and find a plan that better suits your new home or budget.
Yes, many retail electricity providers, such as Chariot Energy, and CleanSky Energy, offer green energy plans in McAllen. Each plan has different terms, prices, and renewable content, so make sure to read the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) carefully before enrolling.
To avoid hidden fees in your electricity plan, carefully review its Electricity Facts Label (EFL) before enrolling. This document outlines all contract terms and pricing details so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
If the power goes out in McAllen, call AEP Texas Central, your utility provider. You can contact them at 1-866-223-8508 or visit their website to report the outage.