Reliant vs. Gexa Energy Comparison: Which Provider Offers the Best Rates for 2026?

Reliant offers stability and smart home perks, while Gexa Energy typically wins on lower rates per kWh.

Choosing between Reliant and Gexa Energy is perhaps the most common dilemma for Texas residents shopping for power. On one side, you have Reliant, the “old guard” known for stability and top-tier customer service. On the other, Gexa Energy acts as the aggressive challenger, frequently undercutting competitors with significantly cheaper advertised rates. This guide breaks down their 2026 pricing structures, hidden fees, and renewable options to help you pick the true winner for your specific home size.

The Quick Verdict: Price vs. Perks

If you are skimming for an immediate answer, the choice generally comes down to your priorities: low bills or high-tech support. Here is how they stack up in a direct head-to-head comparison.

• Best for Lowest Bills: Gexa Energy typically wins here thanks to their aggressive pricing strategy, specifically for homes that use over 1,000 kWh per month.
• Best for Smart Home Tech & Support: Reliant takes the lead with excellent Google Nest integration and a highly-rated app that makes tracking usage easy.
• Best for Short-Term/Renters: Reliant offers strong month-to-month options that provide flexibility if you aren’t ready to commit to a long-term contract.

2026 Reliant vs. Gexa Energy Rates at 500, 1000, and 2000 kWh

To understand which provider is cheaper, you have to look at the “Usage Gap.” In Texas, the price per kWh often changes depending on whether you use 500, 1,000, or 2,000 kWh in a billing cycle. Gexa Energy frequently utilizes “Bill Credits“, discounts that only kick in once you cross a specific usage threshold (usually 1,000 kWh). Reliant’s pricing structure is often flatter, meaning the rate doesn’t fluctuate as wildly, but the average price is often slightly higher. The plan examples below illustrate typical patterns seen in February 2026, though exact prices change often. Always check current offers for your specific ZIP code.

Gexa Plans

Reliant Plans

Here is a look at how a typical 12-month fixed plan from each provider compares across different usage levels.

Monthly Usage	Reliant Energy (Example Pattern)	Gexa Energy (Example Pattern)
500 kWh (Apartment)	Higher (e.g., ~16–18¢)	Significantly Higher (e.g., ~19–22¢)
1,000 kWh (Small Home)	Medium (e.g., ~13–15¢)	Lowest (e.g., ~10–12¢)*
2,000 kWh (Large Home)	Medium (e.g., ~13–15¢)	Lower (e.g., ~11–13¢)

*Note: Gexa rates often drop drastically at the 1,000 kWh mark due to bill credits.

Flagship Plan Battle: Reliant Power Savings vs. Gexa Eco Saver

When you visit official state comparison tools like Power to Choose or other electricity shopping sites, you will likely see two “hero” plans advertised heavily. Comparing Reliant Power Savings vs. Gexa Eco Saver plans helps clarify the difference in strategy between the two companies.

Reliant Power Savings plans focus on stability. While they may not always be the absolute cheapest option on the market, they are designed to avoid massive bill shocks. They also occasionally feature free days or nights, though you should calculate if your lifestyle actually shifts enough usage to those hours to make it worth it.

Gexa Eco Saver plans are often the most attractive options on search results because of their low advertised rate. However, as mentioned above, this low rate is heavily reliant on hitting usage credits. If you consistently use between 1,000 and 2,000 kWh, this plan is a fantastic deal. If you travel for a month and your usage drops, your bill might be higher than expected.

Before signing up for either, you must read the Electricity Facts Label. This document is the only place to see exactly how much you will pay at your specific usage level.

Hidden Fees Watch: Cancellation and Usage Charges

The rate per kWh isn’t the only cost you need to consider. Both providers charge fees if you break your contract early or fail to meet certain criteria. Always confirm the exact early termination fee in your plan’s Electricity Facts Label, since terms vary by offer.

Cancellation Fees (Early Termination Fees):

• Gexa Energy: Often uses a flat early termination fee, which can range from $150 to $295 on typical fixed-rate plans.
• Reliant: Sometimes uses a similar flat fee, but many plans use a per-month formula like “$20 for every month remaining on your contract.” This can be cheaper if you cancel near the end of your term.

Minimum Usage Fees:

Many popular Gexa plans in Texas use bill credits that only apply above certain usage levels and may include minimum usage fees. A minimum usage fee is a flat charge (e.g., $9.95) added to your bill if you don’t use a certain amount of power, such as 500 kWh. Reliant plans are generally more forgiving on low-usage months, making them a safer bet for snowbirds or frequent travelers.

Renewable Energy Options: Who Is Actually Greener?

If sustainability is a priority for your home, both providers have options, but they approach green energy differently. Gexa Energy markets its Texas residential plans as 100% renewable, using Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) to match your usage. Always confirm the renewable percentage in the EFL, since offerings can evolve.

Reliant Energy is not 100% renewable by default. While they offer specific “Green” plans that source wind or solar power, their standard plans may include a mix of fossil fuels. However, Reliant does offer robust solar buyback programs for homeowners who generate their own power.

A Renewable Energy Certificate (REC) essentially proves that 1 megawatt-hour of electricity was generated from a renewable source and fed into the grid. You can learn more about how RECs work through the EPA Green Power website.

Customer Service and Reviews

Price often takes a backseat when your power goes out or you have a billing dispute. This is where Reliant typically shines. When you scan Reliant vs. Gexa reviews, you will notice distinct patterns. In public reviews, Reliant customers frequently mention quick response times and clear bills, while Gexa reviewers often praise low promotional rates but complain when bill credits are misunderstood.

Reliant consistently receives higher marks for customer satisfaction, thanks to their 24/7 support and a comprehensive mobile app. The Reliant app allows you to track usage by the hour, view projected bills, and use smart home perks to automate thermostat setbacks or get alerts when your usage spikes.

Gexa Energy offers solid service, but customer reviews often cite confusion over bill credits as a primary frustration. Users who didn’t read the fine print regarding usage thresholds are often surprised by higher bills in mild weather months. If you are tech-savvy and want an app that actively helps you manage your energy consumption, Reliant is the superior choice.

Making the Right Choice for Your Home

Ultimately, the “best” provider depends entirely on how you live and how much electricity you use. We generally recommend Gexa Energy for households that own a medium-to-large home with consistent usage over 1,000 kWh where price is the number one priority. Their renewable commitment is a nice bonus for the eco-conscious budget shopper.

On the other hand, if you are a renter with lower power usage, or if you value premium digital tools and 24/7 support, Reliant is worth the slightly higher rate. The peace of mind that comes with a flat rate structure and a top-tier app often outweighs the potential savings of a credit-heavy plan. For more tips on lowering your monthly expenses regardless of which provider you choose, check out our guide on how to save on your electric bill. Always check the Electricity Facts Label for your specific plan before signing up to ensure no surprises on your first bill.

FAQs About Reliant vs. Gexa