Written By: David Cosseboom | Updated On: April 30th, 2025
About Reliant Energy
As a subsidiary of NRG Energy, Reliant has been serving Texans since 2000, offering a variety of plans tailored to different lifestyles and energy needs. Headquartered in Houston, Reliant Energy serves over 1.5 million customers across Texas. The company provides more than 23 million megawatts of power annually to both residential and business customers . Reliant is known for its customer-centric approach, offering 24/7 customer service and a range of tools to help manage your energy usage effectively.
Reliant’s Coverage Areas
Reliant operates in Texas’s deregulated electricity market, allowing customers in many areas to choose their electricity provider. The company serves major cities and regions all across Texas, including Houston, Dallas/Fort Worth, Corpus Christi, Galveston, and Midland. If you’re in a deregulated area of Texas, chances are Reliant is available to you.
Reliant’s Plan Options
Reliant offers a mix of traditional and renewable electric energy options. Customers can choose plans powered by conventional energy sources or opt for 100% renewable energy plans, including wind and solar options. The company also provides solar buyback programs for customers who generate their own solar power. Reliant offers a variety of plans to fit your home’s usage and needs:
Fixed-Rate Plans
Fixed-rate plans lock in your electricity rate for the duration of the contract, typically ranging from 12 to 36 months. This provides price stability, shielding you from market fluctuations. However, early termination fees apply if you cancel before the contract ends.
Variable-Rate Plans
Variable-rate plans offer flexibility with no long-term commitment. Your rate can change monthly based on market conditions. These are ideal if you prefer not to be tied to a contract, but be prepared for potential rate increases.
Renewable Plans
Reliant offers several renewable energy plans, including 100% wind and solar options. These plans allow environmentally conscious customers to support clean energy without installing their own solar panels. Additionally, Reliant’s solar buyback program lets customers with solar panels sell excess energy back to the grid.
Prepaid Plans
With prepaid plans, you pay for electricity in advance, allowing you to control your budget closely. There’s no deposit or long-term contract, and you can monitor your usage through the Reliant app.
Time-of-Use Plans
Time-of-Use plans offer free electricity during specific periods, such as nights or weekends. If you can shift your high-usage activities to these times, you could see significant savings.
EV-Friendly Plans
If you drive an electric vehicle, Reliant offers several plans designed with your charging needs in mind. These EV-friendly options typically include lower electricity rates during off-peak hours, especially overnight, making it easier and more affordable to charge your vehicle at home. Some plans even offer perks like bill credits or additional renewable energy components to help offset your environmental impact.
Reliant’s EV plans are great for drivers looking to save money while supporting clean energy. Many of these options are powered by renewable sources and may be paired with smart home technology or apps that help you monitor and manage your charging habits more effectively. Whether you’re commuting daily or just topping off your battery at night, there’s likely a plan that aligns with your schedule and sustainability goals.
Reliant Plans and Pricing
| Plan Name | Rate | Plan Type | Renewable | Cancellation Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Reliant Power on 36 Plan | $0.1650 /kWh | 36 Months Fixed Rate | 24% | $99.99 |
| Reliant Power On 12 Plan | $0.1720 /kWh | 12 Months Fixed Rate | 24% | $99.99 |
| Reliant Power On Flex plan | $0.1920 /kWh | Variable Rate | 24% | $0.00 |
| Reliant Power on 36 | $0.1970 /kWh | 36 Months Fixed Rate | 24% | $99.99 |
| Reliant Power on 24 | $0.1980 /kWh | 24 Months Fixed Rate | 24% | $99.99 |
*plans and pricing may vary by location. Search for your zip code to find the plans available in your area.
Reliant Cancellation Fees
For fixed-rate plans, early termination fees apply: typically $99.99-$150 for 12-month contracts and up to $295 for 24-month contracts. However, if you’re moving out of Reliant’s service area, these fees may be waived upon providing proof of your new address.
Reliant’s Solar Buyback Program
Reliant Energy offers solar buyback plans for homeowners with rooftop solar panels, allowing you to earn bill credits for excess electricity sent back to the grid. These credits are applied to your monthly bill and can help lower your overall energy costs. Plans typically offer either a fixed credit rate or match the real-time market price for the energy you export.
To qualify, your system must be under 50 kW and have a utility-approved interconnection agreement and a compatible bidirectional meter. The program is available in many parts of Texas and includes tools through the Reliant app to monitor your solar production and track your savings. It’s a great option if you want to maximize the value of your home solar investment.
Reliant EcoShare Support Environmental Initiatives
The Reliant EcoShare program allows customers to contribute to environmental conservation efforts and offset their carbon footprint. By enrolling, a small monthly fee is added to your electricity bill, part of which supports EarthShare Texas, a nonprofit organization funding over 30 environmental and conservation-focused charities in Texas. The remaining portion goes toward purchasing carbon offsets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Participation Levels:
- EcoShare Silver: $3.95/month, with $1 donated to EarthShare Texas and 500 lbs. of carbon offsets purchased.
- EcoShare Gold: $5.95/month, with $2 donated to EarthShare Texas and 1,000 lbs. of carbon offsets purchased.
Since its inception in 2011, the EcoShare program has raised over $2 million to support various environmental initiatives across Texas.
Additional Features
Reliant provides various tools and services to enhance customer experience:
- Smart Home Integration: Some plans include devices like the Google Nest Hub to help manage your energy usage.
- Energy Management Tools: The Reliant app allows you to monitor usage, pay bills, and receive alerts.
- Customer Support: 24/7 customer service is available to assist with any inquiries or issues.
Reliant Energy offers a comprehensive range of plans and services to meet diverse energy needs. Whether you prioritize budget stability, flexibility, or renewable energy, Reliant has options to consider. Be sure to review the details of each plan, including rates and fees, to find the best fit for your lifestyle.