Top 47 Electric Providers in Houston
4Change Energy
- Renewable
- 9-100%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 8-24 Months
TXU ENERGY
- Renewable
- 3-100%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 1-36 Months
BKV Energy
- Renewable
- 29-100%
- Guarantee
- 30 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
CHARIOT ENERGY
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 3-36 Months
APG&E
- Renewable
- 6-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 1-36 Months
Just Energy
- Renewable
- 31%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
Express Energy
- Renewable
- 9%
- Guarantee
- 30 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
GEXA ENERGY
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
Companion Energy
- Renewable
- 30%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 12-24 Months
TriEagle Energy
- Renewable
- 3-100%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
Cirro Energy
- Renewable
- 24%
- Guarantee
- 30 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
Frontier Utilities
- Renewable
- 30-100%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 4-36 Months
RHYTHM
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- 30 days
- Rate lock
- 3-36 Months
Energy Texas
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- 30 days
- Rate lock
- 3-36 Months
Discount Power
- Renewable
- 24%
- Guarantee
- 90 days
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
Atlantex Power
- Renewable
- 35-100%
- Guarantee
- 90 days
- Rate lock
- 36 Months
- Renewable
- 31%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 11-60 Months
AMIGO ENERGY
- Renewable
- 31%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 11-60 Months
Octopus Energy
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 3-18 Months
PAYLESS POWER
- Renewable
- 26%
- Guarantee
- 30 days
- Rate lock
- 6-12 Months
Veteran Energy
- Renewable
- 9-100%
- Guarantee
- 60 days
- Rate lock
- 12-24 Months
Constellation Energy
- Renewable
- 26-100%
- Guarantee
- 90 days
- Rate lock
- 3-36 Months
- Renewable
- 26-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 9-24 Months
CleanSky Energy
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 3-24 Months
Think Energy
- Renewable
- 25-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
Direct Energy
- Renewable
- 24%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 12-36 Months
RELIANT
- Renewable
- 24%
- Guarantee
- 90 days
- Rate lock
- 0-36 Months
Green Mountain Energy
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- 90 days
- Rate lock
- 1-36 Months
- Renewable
- 35%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 6-15 Months
SOUTHERN FEDERAL POWER
- Renewable
- 6%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 1-60 Months
Ranchero Power
- Renewable
- 6%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 1-60 Months
INFUSE ENERGY
- Renewable
- 26-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 1-36 Months
SmartEnergy
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 12 Months
REVOLUTION ENERGY
- Renewable
- 26-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 1-36 Months
HERITAGE POWER LLC
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
TRUE POWER
- Renewable
- 33-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 3-36 Months
Budget Power
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
VARSITY ENERGY
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
Abundance Energy
- Renewable
- 25-100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- 3-36 Months
AE TEXAS
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
Pogo Energy
- Renewable
- 100%
- Guarantee
- None
- Rate lock
- Month to Month
Base Power
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
Good Charlie Energy
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
NEC Co-op Energy
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
PRONTO POWER
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
- Renewable
- —
- Guarantee
- —
- Rate lock
- —
EnergySage
- Service
- Home solar
- Quotes
- Free
Electricity in Houston
Electricity in Houston operates within Texas’s fully deregulated ERCOT grid under the CenterPoint Energy transmission and distribution territory. While CenterPoint owns the poles, wires, and physical meters, reads your usage, and handles emergency outage restoration, you are legally required to select an independent Retail Electric Provider (REP) to manage your energy supply and monthly billing. It is vital to look closely at the fine print of open-market plans because CenterPoint passed a major delivery rate increase taking effect June 1, 2026, locking their pass-through charges at a fixed $4.90 per month plus a record-high $0.051461 per kWh. In mid-2026, advertised all-in electric rates range from a promotional low below 7 cents per kWh up to a median of 16.6 cents per kWh at 1,000 kWh of monthly usage, making active contract shopping and usage tracking highly critical to avoid paying an extreme baseline premium.
Natural Gas Providers in Houston
Natural Gas in Houston
Natural gas service is distributed across the metro area by CenterPoint Energy, operating as a fully regulated utility where residential supply rates are locked to strict state-approved tariffs. Unlike the open electric market, the residential gas layout in Houston does not offer alternative open-market retail shopping, meaning any third-party marketers attempting to sell you a home gas contract are unauthorized. Because natural gas is heavily relied upon to fire up central heating systems, water heaters, and backyard pool setups during sudden Gulf Coast winter fronts, you should establish your account online at least five business days before moving in. Keep in mind that CenterPoint levies a fixed monthly customer charge year-round, ensuring a baseline expense even during a scorching July or August heatwave when your furnace lies completely dormant and your volumetric gas consumption hits absolute zero.
Top 10 Internet Providers in Houston
Xfinity
- Speeds up to
- 2 Gbps
- Type
- Cable & Fiber
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Availability
- 97%
AT&T Fiber
- Speeds up to
- 5 Gbps
- Type
- Fiber
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Availability
- 74.61%
Starlink
- Speeds up to
- 400 Mbps
- Type
- Satellite
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Availability
- 100%
Verizon 5G Home Internet
- Speeds up to
- 300 Mbps
- Type
- 5G
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Availability
- 100%
T-Mobile 5G Home Internet
- Speeds up to
- 498 Mbps
- Type
- 5G
- Data cap
- 1.2 TB
- Availability
- 100%
AT&T Air
- Speeds up to
- 300 Mbps
- Type
- 5G
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Availability
- 99.93%
- Speeds up to
- 150 Mbps
- Type
- Satellite
- Data cap
- 150-850 GB
- Availability
- 100%
- Speeds up to
- Varies
- Type
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Data cap
- Varies
- Availability
- 95%
Optimum
- Speeds up to
- 8 Gbps
- Type
- Cable & Fiber
- Data cap
- Unlimited
- Availability
- 2.22%
- Speeds up to
- 2 Gbps
- Type
- Fiber
- Data cap
- 1 TB
- Availability
- 1.44%
What to Expect in Houston
Internet and broadband access across the Houston basin is a fast-paced, high-bandwidth turf war driven by a near-universal cable presence from Xfinity and rapidly expanding multi-gigabit fiber-to-the-home footprint from AT&T Fiber. Symmetrical fiber layouts provide exceptional low-latency data feeds ideal for remote work, but your actual broadband options are entirely dictated by local urban planning and neighborhood age. Moving into an established historic neighborhood like the Heights, Montrose, or River Oaks may occasionally restrict your initial options to legacy hybrid-coaxial cable due to old utility poles or permitting delays, while modern high-density condo towers and luxury developments in Downtown, Midtown, or the Galleria district frequently feature exclusive property marketing agreements that lock out competitor installation teams.
Water & Sewage Providers in Houston
CITY OF HOUSTON
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 167
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 200 CRANBROOK
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
CNP UTILITY DISTRICT
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
FORT BEND COUNTY MUD 30
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 368
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
DENTON COUNTY FWSD 7 LANTANA
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 36
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 49
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
FORT BEND COUNTY MUD 142
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
RICE UNIVERSITY
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 119
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 110
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 132
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 109
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
JACKRABBIT ROAD PUD
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
WEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 11
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 153
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
NORTHWEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 9
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
NORTHWEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 10
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 152
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
MONTGOMERY COUNTY MUD 9
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
SUNBELT FWSD OAKWILDE SUBDIVISION
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUD 6
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 383
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
WEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 10
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
REID ROAD MUD 1
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 354
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 84
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
FORT BEND COUNTY MUD 134C
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 364
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 8
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
MONTGOMERY COUNTY MUD 15
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 196
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
WEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 9
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 74
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
INTERSTATE MUD
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
NORTHWEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 19
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 114
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 86
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
WEST HARRIS COUNTY MUD 1
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
BRAZORIA COUNTY MUD 25
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 179
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
CINCO MUD 2
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
HARRIS COUNTY MUD 43
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Online & Phone
FORT BEND COUNTY MUD 146
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
FORT BEND COUNTY MUD 119
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
HARRIS COUNTY WCID 133
- Service
- Water & sewage
- Contact
- Phone
Houston drinking water quality: 5 contaminants above health guidelines, none above legal limits
Primary source: surface water. Levels are averages of EPA SDWA LCR and UCMR 3–5 samples. Health guidelines come from the EPA, WHO, or state health departments; legal limits are EPA regulations.
Do I Need to Use a Water Softener in Houston?
A water softener is likely worth the investment. Houston tap water is rated “hard” (110 to 160 mg/L), drawn from Trinity River surface water and Gulf Coast aquifers. Hard water can leave cloudy glassware, stiff laundry, and crusty mineral buildup on fixtures, and that scale can shorten the life of water-using appliances. A properly sized softener can help protect them. Learn how ion-exchange water softeners work.
Water & Sewer in Houston: What to Know
Water and sewer infrastructure is managed directly by the City of Houston Water Billing department, drawing its clean supply from a complex blend of regional surface water reservoirs and groundwater wells. New residents face a substantial step up in baseline costs, as the city implemented a massive 7.87 percent combined water and wastewater rate increase taking effect April 1, 2026, driven by a compounding blend of local inflation adjustments and a multi-year Cost of Service Rate Study. Volumetric pricing follows a highly punitive tiered framework that penalizes heavy consumption; for a standard single-family home with a 5/8-inch meter, using a baseline of 1,000 gallons costs a combined $35.06 per month, but scaling usage up to 7,000 gallons pushes the statement to $176.53, and hitting 14,000 gallons balloons the bill to a staggering $377.27. Because wastewater treatment costs consistently outpace clean water volume fees, extensive summer lawn irrigation or a hidden plumbing leak will aggressively compound your monthly municipal liabilities.
Top 23 Trash and Recycling Providers in Houston
Houston Solid Waste Management
All 20 additional trash and recycling providers
Trash & Recycling in Houston: What to Expect
Trash and recycling collection inside the city limits is operated directly by the City of Houston Solid Waste Management Department (SWMD), with standard service fees funded through city municipal structures rather than an independent utility bill. The automated residential curbside program relies on a strict two-cart system consisting of a black container for bagged household garbage and a green 96-gallon container for loose, single-stream recycling. Bins must be rolled curbside by 7:00 AM on your designated collection morning with the wheels facing your home and removed by 10:00 PM that evening to comply with local code ordinances. Drivers utilize automated mechanical truck arms that require absolute precision, meaning your containers must maintain a strict three-foot clearance from mailboxes, trees, parked vehicles, and each other, or your property will be legally bypassed for the week.
How to Set Up Utilities in Houston: Electricity, Water, Gas & Internet
As the fourth-largest city in the United States, Houston is a vibrant metropolis known for its diverse culture, thriving arts scene, and status as the energy capital of the world. Whether you’re moving into a new home or considering switching utility providers, understanding the local services is essential. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you navigate electric, natural gas, water, trash, and internet services in Houston.
Electricity Services
In Texas, the electricity market is deregulated, giving consumers the power to choose their electricity provider. While CenterPoint Energy manages the transmission and distribution (TDU) of electricity in Houston, numerous Retail Electric Providers (REPs) offer various plans to suit your needs.
The Two Pillars: REP vs. TDU
To troubleshoot your bill or an outage, you must know who handles what:
- The REP (Retail Electric Provider): Companies like Reliant, TXU, Gexa, BKV, or Green Mountain.
- Role: They buy power wholesale and sell it to you. They handle your billing, contract, and customer service.
- Action: Call them for billing questions, plan changes, or move-in setup.
- The TDU (CenterPoint Energy): The regulated monopoly that owns the poles, wires, and meters in Houston.
- Role: They deliver the electricity and maintain the grid. You cannot choose a different TDU.
- Action: Call CenterPoint (713-207-2222) immediately if your power goes out. Your REP cannot fix a downed line.
Key Considerations When Choosing an Electricity Provider
- Rate Plans: Compare fixed-rate and variable-rate plans. Fixed-rate plans offer price stability, while variable-rate plans can fluctuate with the market.
- Contract Terms: Review the length of contracts and any early termination fees.
- Renewable Energy Options: Some providers offer plans that source electricity from renewable energy, supporting environmental sustainability.
5 Best Retail Electric Providers in Houston
Residential electricity across Greater Houston operates in Texas’s deregulated energy market, where CenterPoint Energy delivers power to homes regardless of which company bills you. Because CenterPoint’s mandatory pass-through delivery fees ($4.90 monthly base charge plus 6.00¢ to 6.41¢ per kWh) apply identically across all retail contracts, finding the right provider comes down to rate transparency, usage terms, customer service track records, and exit flexibility.
Based on pricing stability, Electricity Facts Label (EFL) clarity, Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) complaint scorecards, and customer satisfaction data, here are the five best retail electric providers currently serving Houston households:
| Provider | Category / Best For | Renewable Content | Contract Terms | Early Termination Fee (ETF) | Satisfaction Guarantee |
| 4Change Energy | Best Overall Value | 9% – 100% | 8 – 36 Months | Pro-rated: $20 / remaining month | 60 Days |
| Rhythm Energy | Best 100% Green Energy & Digital App | 100% | 3 – 36 Months | Pro-rated: $10 – $20 / remaining month | 30 Days |
| Champion Energy Services | Best Customer Service & Bill Transparency | 25% – 100% | 9 – 24 Months | Flat fee: $150 (12-mo) / $250 (24-mo) | None |
| TXU Energy | Best Brand Scale & Specialty Plan Variety | 3% – 100% | 1 – 36 Months | Flat fee: $150 – $395 based on plan | 60 Days |
| APG&E | Best for Low Rates | 5% – 100% | 1 – 36 Months | Flat fee: $150 – $350 based on plan | None |
#1 4Change Energy: Best Overall Value
- Why we ranked it here: 4Change Energy consistently offers market-leading pricing while providing rock-solid contract stability backed by its parent company, Vistra Corp. They differentiate themselves by donating 4% of annual net profits to local Texas charities like Feeding Texas and the American Cancer Society without inflating retail rates. Most importantly for consumers, 4Change features a consumer-friendly pro-rated Early Termination Fee (ETF) of $20 per remaining month rather than an aggressive lump-sum penalty, alongside a 60-day satisfaction guarantee that lets you switch between internal plans penalty-free. It is an ideal “set-and-forget” pick for Houston households seeking dependable pricing and fewer billing surprises.
- Drawbacks to know: To unlock 4Change’s lowest published rates, you must enroll in paperless billing and recurring auto-pay. If you choose one of their tiered “Maxx Saver” bill-credit plans instead of a flat fixed rate, make sure your seasonal usage doesn’t drop below the qualifying threshold during milder spring or fall months.
#2 Rhythm Energy: Best 100% Green Energy & Digital Platform
- Why we ranked it here: Headquartered in Houston, Rhythm Energy makes powering your home with 100% renewable Texas wind and solar energy simple and affordable. Unlike legacy providers that charge steep green premiums. They offer the most customer-friendly onboarding policies in Texas, including a 30-Day Test Drive that allows new enrollments to cancel without an ETF if unsatisfied, plus an ETF reimbursement of up to $150 to help cover penalty fees from switching away from your previous provider. Fixed contracts feature fair pro-rated cancellation fees of $10 to $20 per unexpired month, and their mobile app offers real-time smart-meter usage tracking and bill projections.
- Drawbacks to know: Rhythm’s customer service operates on a digital-first model, meaning phone wait times can be longer during major storms and peak call hours. They also do not offer prepaid electricity, solar buyback, or time-of-use (free nights/weekends) options.
#3 Champion Energy Services: Best Customer Service & Bill Transparency
- Why we ranked it here: If you want zero gimmicks and responsive, domestic human support, Houston-based Champion Energy Services is the standout choice. Champion routinely earns a 5-Star PUCT Complaint Scorecard rating and holds an A+ accreditation with the Better Business Bureau. Their flagship “Champ Saver” fixed-rate plans feature exceptionally clean Electricity Facts Labels (EFLs) with uniform energy pricing across 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh usage bands and $0 monthly provider base fees. In an era where many providers rely on automated bots, Champion provides 24/7 Texas-based phone customer support.
- Drawbacks to know: Champion prioritizes transparent pricing over deep-discount loss leaders; their all-in rates (including CenterPoint delivery charges) generally average between 13.1¢ and 14.8¢ per kWh, which sits slightly above aggressive discounter rates. Their contracts also carry traditional flat exit fees ($150 for 12 months, $250 for 24 months) and do not feature extended trial windows.
#4 TXU Energy: Best Brand Scale & Specialty Plan Variety
- Why we ranked it here: As the largest and longest-running retail electric provider in Texas, TXU Energy serves over two million meters and provides unmatched financial stability. They hold an impressive 4.7/5 rating on Trustpilot and a strong, customer-weighted PUCT scorecard profile. TXU offers the most varied plan catalog on the market, highlighted by popular time-of-use options like “Free Nights & Solar Days” and electric vehicle (EV) charging plans. All fixed contracts are backed by a 60-day satisfaction guarantee, giving you two full billing cycles to adjust your plan without incurring exit penalties.
- Drawbacks to know: You pay for the brand name; TXU’s mass-market fixed-rate plans carry a noticeable premium over budget rivals. In addition, if you enroll in a “Free Nights” plan, electricity during daytime hours is charged at higher rates (often 20¢+ per kWh), which can result in expensive summer bills if your home’s air conditioning runs heavily during the day. Flat ETFs range from $150 to $395.
#5 APG&E: Best for Low Rates
- Why we ranked it here: For budget-focused shoppers whose top priority is securing the lowest possible unit rate, Houston-based AP Gas & Electric (APG&E) frequently tops comparison sites. Named the top-rated Texas provider in 2026 by Texas Electricity Ratings for overall value and plan selection, APG&E offers a wide array of fixed-term options ranging from 1 to 36 months. Their flexible 11-month and 12-month terms allow savvy consumers to lock in competitive pricing before summer grid demand spikes.
- Drawbacks to know: APG&E carries a lower PUCT complaint scorecard rating (fluctuating between 2 and 3 stars), largely stemming from strict contract renewal policies and tiered bill-credit rules. Contracts utilize flat cancellation fees ($150 to $350) and offer no trial period. It is essential to set a calendar reminder before your contract ends; if you forget to renew or switch, your account rolls into an expensive default month-to-month variable rate.
Why Trust Our Rankings
We built this list by pairing hard numbers with real-world signals and then cross-checking everything for clarity. Our ratings focus on CenterPoint (Houston) plans, last updated September 2025, using a standardized 1,000 kWh benchmark so you can compare apples-to-apples. We reviewed 20+ reputable sources (provider EFLs/ToS, BBB pages, independent plan trackers, and editorial roundups), read ~3,300 consumer reviews across major third-party sites, and sampled recent Reddit/forum threads to validate on-the-ground experiences and common “gotchas.”
In short, we reward providers that combine consistently competitive, non-gimmicky pricing with strong customer-satisfaction signals, clean BBB status, and consumer-friendly fees (we favor pro-rated ETFs over large flat penalties). We also open the EFLs, not just marketing pages, to verify base charges, bill-credit conditions, and how the average price shifts at 500/1,000/2,000 kWh. Pricing power matters, but transparency and predictable bills matter too.
See our full methodology for ranking REPs
The “Hidden” Cost: TDU Delivery Charges
Many residents are shocked when their first bill arrives higher than the advertised rate. This is usually due to TDU Pass-Through Charges or Delivery Charges.
Every electricity bill in Houston includes fees paid to CenterPoint Energy for maintaining the grid. Most REPs pass these costs directly to you on top of the energy charge.
- Current Rates (Est. 2026): CenterPoint charges a fixed monthly fee plus a variable rate based on usage (approx. 6.0¢ per kWh).
- The “Resiliency” Factor: Recent rate increases are partly funding CenterPoint’s “Resiliency Plan” to replace wooden poles with steel and install stronger wires to withstand hurricanes.
Note: These rates are set by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and change twice a year (March and September).
Tip: Always check the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) before choosing a plan, it shows the real costs, contract terms, and fees so you know exactly what you’re signing up for.
Avoiding the Deposit: Texas Waiver Rules
You may be asked to pay a deposit ($150–$300) if you do not meet credit thresholds. However, Texas law provides specific waiver rights:
- Letter of Credit: If you have 12 months of payment history with a previous utility (gas, water, or electric) with no more than two late payments, you can submit a “Letter of Credit” to waive the deposit.
- Seniors (65+): Residents over 65 with no delinquent balance are exempt from deposits.
- Victims of Family Violence: You can waive the deposit by submitting a certification letter from the Texas Council on Family Violence.
Master Your Data: Smart Meter Texas
Houston homes are equipped with Smart Meters that track usage in 15-minute intervals.
- The Tool: Register for free at Smart Meter Texas.
- The Benefit: You can see exactly how much power you used yesterday. This allows you to audit your bill and see if your A/C is running inefficiently before you get a surprise invoice at the end of the month.
Energy Efficiency Rebates
CenterPoint Energy offers energy efficiency programs, including rebates for energy-efficient appliances, home energy assessments, and incentives for upgrading to efficient heating and cooling systems.
- Appliance Rebates: Rebates are available for purchasing energy-efficient electric and natural gas appliances, such as smart thermostats, LED lighting, water heaters and furnaces.
- Home Energy Audits: CenterPoint offers assessments to identify opportunities for energy savings in your home.
- Online Marketplace: Save on energy efficient upgrades with Centerpoint’s Online Marketplace
Natural Gas: Safety, Setup & The “Master-Planned” Exception
Unlike the electricity market, where you have dozens of choices, or the water market, which is strictly geographic, natural gas in Houston is generally a monopoly. However, which monopoly you use depends on the age and location of your neighborhood.
The Primary Provider: CenterPoint Energy
For the vast majority of Houston residents (inside the loop and most established suburbs), CenterPoint Energy is the exclusive natural gas provider.
- Important Distinction: CenterPoint delivers electricity (fixes the wires), but they sell and deliver natural gas. You will pay them directly for gas service.
- How to Set Up:
- Online: Use the online form.
- Phone: Call 713-659-2111.
- Lead Time: We recommend scheduling this at least 7 days before your move-in date.
The “New Build” Exception: SiEnergy
If you are moving into a newer Master-Planned Community (common in suburbs like Fulshear, Cypress, Missouri City, and parts of Sugar Land), your gas provider might not be CenterPoint. It might be SiEnergy.
- Who they serve: SiEnergy often holds the contract for communities like Sienna, Cross Creek Ranch, Aliana, and Jordan Ranch.
- How to Check: Look at your gas meter. It will be labeled with the company name. If you haven’t moved in yet, check your “Seller’s Disclosure” or ask your builder.
- Setup: Visit SiEnergy or call 888-468-7007.
The “In-Person” Requirement
Turning on electricity is usually done remotely. Turning on gas is different.
- The Safety Check: If the gas has been physically turned off at your property (common in vacant homes), a technician must enter the home to perform a safety check and light the pilot lights on your water heater and furnace.
- The Rule: An adult (18+) must be present during the appointment window. If you miss this appointment, you may have to wait several days for a reschedule, leaving you with cold showers.
If you are buying a home, ask the seller to leave the gas on and simply transfer the billing name. This avoids the need for a technician visit.
Costs & Deposits
- Connection Fee: Expect a one-time connection fee on your first bill (typically around $40 for CenterPoint).
- Deposits: Similar to electricity, a deposit may be required based on your credit history. This can often be waived if you provide a “Letter of Credit” from your previous utility provider showing 12 months of on-time payments.
Emergency Safety (Smell Gas?)
Houston adds a harmless chemical called mercaptan to natural gas, giving it a distinctive rotten egg smell.
Call the CenterPoint Gas Leak Hotline at 888-876-5786 or call 911 once you are safely away.
If you smell gas: Leave the area immediately. Do not use light switches, garage door openers, or phones (sparks can ignite the gas).
Water & Wastewater: Unraveling the “City vs. MUD” Map
One of the most confusing aspects of moving to the Greater Houston area is realizing that your water provider might not be the City of Houston. Unlike many other metropolises, our region is a patchwork of the City of Houston (COH) and hundreds of independent Municipal Utility Districts (MUDs).
Determining who provides your water is the first critical step to getting your service turned on.
Step 1: Identify Your Provider
Before you try to set up service, you must confirm if your address lies within the official city limits or in a specific MUD. Do not assume that having a “Houston, TX” address means you are a City of Houston water customer.
- Method A: The “Tax Bill” Trick (Most Reliable) Check the property tax records for your new home (ask your realtor or landlord for a copy, or look it up on the Harris Central Appraisal District website).
- If you see: A line item for “City of Houston,” you likely have City water.
- If you see: A line item for a specific district (e.g., “Harris County MUD #55” or “Cinco MUD 1”), that district is your water provider.
- Method B: The Official Map Tools
- TCEQ Water District Viewer: The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality provides the gold-standard map for locating MUD boundaries.
- City of Houston Service Map: Verify if your address falls inside the city’s billing service area.
Setting Up Service with the City of Houston
If you are within the city limits, your water, sewer, and drainage services are bundled together.
- Where to Apply: Applications are processed through the Houston Water portal.
- What You Need:
- A copy of your signed Lease Agreement (first and last pages) or Proof of Ownership (Settlement Statement).
- A valid Government-Issued ID (Driver’s License or Passport).
- Understanding Your Bill:
- The Drainage Charge: You will see a dedicated fee for “Drainage” on your bill. This is calculated based on the “impervious cover” (concrete, roof) on your property and funds flood control infrastructure.
- Tiered Rates: Houston uses a conservation rate structure. Water is cheapest for the first 3,000 gallons. Usage above 3,000 and 6,000 gallons triggers significantly higher rates per gallon, so monitor your irrigation carefully.
- Troubleshooting: For leaks, outages, or billing questions, call 3-1-1 (713-837-0311) or use the Houston 311 website.
Setting Up Service with a MUD
If you are in the suburbs (such as Katy, Cypress, Spring, or Kingwood), your water is likely provided by a Municipal Utility District. MUDs do not run their own billing departments; they hire professional Operating Companies to handle connections and billing.
You will need to identify your specific MUD’s operator to set up service. The most common operators in the Houston area include:
- Inframark
- Si Environmental
- Municipal District Services (MDS)
- Municipal Operations & Consulting (MOC)
Living in a MUD often means a lower monthly water rate but a higher annual property tax bill. MUDs levy a special property tax to pay off the bonds used to build the local infrastructure. If you are renting, this cost is absorbed by your landlord, but if you are buying, be sure to review the total tax rate (City + School + MUD) before closing.
Waste Management: Trash, Recycling & The “Heavy Trash” Rules
Garbage collection in Houston is not one-size-fits-all. Your service depends entirely on whether you live inside the city limits or in a Municipal Utility District (MUD).
City of Houston Residents (The “Black & Green” Bins)
If you receive a water bill from the City of Houston, you likely receive city trash service.
- The Black Bin (Trash): Collected weekly.
- The Green Bin (Recycling): Collected bi-weekly (every other week).
- Service Day: Find your specific pickup day and recycling week schedule here.
Crucial Recycling Rules:
- NO BAGS: Do not bag your recyclables. They must be loose in the green cart. Bagged recyclables are treated as trash because they jam sorting machines.
- Glass is Back: As of recent program updates, the City of Houston does accept glass bottles and jars in curbside green bins, along with plastics #1-5 and #7, cardboard, and aluminum.
- No Styrofoam: Styrofoam (Block #6) is NOT accepted curbside.
The “Heavy Trash” Rotation (Memorize This!) Houston has a unique “Tree Waste” vs. “Junk Waste” alternating monthly schedule for large items.
- Odd Months (January, March, May…): TREE WASTE ONLY.
- Accepted: Clean wood, branches, limbs, and stumps.
- Rejected: Lumber, treated wood, fencing, furniture.
- Even Months (February, April, June…): JUNK WASTE.
- Accepted: Bulky items like sofas, mattresses, appliances, and fence pickets. (Tree waste is also accepted in these months).
- The “8 Cubic Yard” Limit: Your pile cannot exceed 8 cubic yards (approx. two pickup truck beds). Piles larger than this may be tagged and left behind.
MUD & Private Service (The Suburbs)
If you are in a MUD (Katy, Cypress, Spring, etc.), the City of Houston does not pick up your trash. Your MUD contracts with a private hauler.
- Common Providers: Best Trash, Texas Pride Disposal, GFL Environmental, and Waste Management.
- Service Differences:
- Frequency: Private haulers often pick up trash twice a week (e.g., Monday/Thursday) and recycling once a week.
- Heavy Trash: Most private haulers do not follow the City’s odd/even schedule. They often take heavy items on the second collection day of every week. Check your specific MUD’s website for “Bulk Pickup” rules.
- Glass: Most private haulers (like Best Trash and Texas Pride) do accept glass in their recycling bins.
Drop-Off Centers & Hazardous Waste
Need to get rid of something immediately? Use these facilities. Proof of residency (ID + Utility Bill) is required.
Neighborhood Depositories (For Heavy Trash & Tires) If you miss your heavy trash day, you can bring debris here.
- Hours: Wednesday – Sunday (Closed Mon/Tue).
- Locations: Six locations citywide (North, Northwest, Northeast, Southeast, South, Southwest). ()
The Westpark Consumer Recycling Center
- Best For: Styrofoam, tires (limited), and recyclables if you don’t have curbside service.
- Location: 5900 Westpark Dr, Houston, TX 77057.
- Hours: Mon-Sat, 8am – 5pm.
Environmental Service Centers (For Chemicals/Paint) Do not put paint, batteries, oil, or pesticides in your curbside bin. Take them to an ESC.
- North Location: 5614 Neches St.
- South Location: 11500 S. Post Oak Rd.
- Accepted Items: Paint (latex/oil), batteries (car/household), antifreeze, fluorescent lights.
Internet Providers
Staying connected is crucial, and Houston offers a variety of internet service providers (ISPs) to meet your needs:
- AT&T Fiber: Provides fiber-optic internet services with high-speed connectivity up to 5 Gbps, ideal for heavy internet users and households with multiple devices. AT&T offers fiber service to nearly two-thirds of the city.
- Xfinity: The most widely available provider in Houston, Xfinity offers cable internet services with a range of speed options suitable for various online activities.
- Verizon 5G Home Internet: Offers wireless 5G home internet with competitive speeds and pricing, providing flexibility without long-term contracts.
Transportation: Tolls, Tags & Traffic Survival
Houston is a car-dependent city with a massive, complex network of toll roads. Navigating them efficiently requires the right “Tag” and knowledge of the local infrastructure.
The Toll Tag: Get an HCTRA “EZ TAG”
The Golden Rule of Houston driving: Do not rely on “Pay by Mail.” It is more expensive and prone to administrative errors. You need a digital toll tag.
- The Big Change (2025 Update): Historically, drivers had to choose between the local EZ TAG (Harris County) and the state TxTag (TxDOT). However, following significant billing issues with the state system, the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) has effectively taken over toll operations for the Houston and Austin regions.
- Recommendation: New residents should open an EZ TAG account directly with HCTRA.
- Where it Works: Your EZ TAG is valid on all toll roads in Texas, Oklahoma, and Kansas.
- New for 2025 (Florida Access): As of March 2025, the EZ TAG is now interoperable with Florida’s SunPass system, meaning you can drive from Houston to Orlando or Miami using just your Houston tag.
- How to Get It:
- EZ TAG Express App: Download the app to set up an account instantly using your license plate and credit card. This allows you to drive legally on local toll roads (like the Sam Houston Tollway) while waiting for your physical sticker to arrive in the mail.
- Physical Stores: Visit an EZ TAG store for immediate tag pickup (Check hours/locations on()).
Registration: The “Two Steps, One Sticker” Law
Texas links your vehicle inspection to your registration. You cannot register your car without passing an inspection first.
- Step 1: The Inspection (90-Day Rule)
- Take your vehicle to any certified inspection station (most oil change shops and mechanics).
- Pass/Fail: You will receive a Vehicle Inspection Report (VIR). The results are uploaded to the state database automatically.
- Note: In Harris, Fort Bend, Brazoria, and Montgomery counties, this includes an emissions test. Your “Check Engine” light must be off.
- Step 2: The Registration
- Take your passing VIR, proof of insurance, and ID to the County Tax Assessor-Collector’s office to get your windshield sticker.
- New Residents: You generally have 30 days after moving to register your vehicle.
Driver’s Licenses: Surviving the DPS
Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS) offices are notorious for long wait times.
- The “Mega Centers”: In the Houston area, look for “Mega Centers” (e.g., Spring/Cypress or Rosenberg). These are high-capacity facilities designed to process people faster than small neighborhood offices.
- Get in Line Online: Never walk in without checking the website. Use the “Get in Line Online“ feature to reserve a spot before you leave your house.
Flood Safety: The TranStar Map
During heavy rain or tropical storms, Google Maps and Waze are often not fast enough to identify flooded streets.
- The Tool: Bookmark.
- Why: This map uses real-time sensors on highway underpasses to detect high water. It is the definitive source for knowing which intersections are underwater.
METRO & Park & Ride
If you commute to Downtown or the Medical Center from the suburbs (Kingwood, Katy, Cypress, Clear Lake), the Park & Ride system is a viable alternative to driving.
- Fares: The system uses a zone-based fare structure (Zone 1 to Zone 4), costing roughly $2.00 to $4.50 per trip.
- Payment: You do not need exact change. Download the METRO Q Mobile Ticketing app to buy tickets on your phone, or get a reloadable Q Fare Card at local grocery stores (Kroger, H-E-B).
Airport Parking: The “EcoPark” Hack
Houston has two major airports: George Bush Intercontinental (IAH) and Hobby (HOU).
- The Tip: Skip the expensive terminal garages ($25+/day). Look for the official EcoPark lots at both airports.
- Cost: Rates are typically $9–$11 per day (vs $25+).
- Shuttles: Free shuttles run 24/7. At IAH, EcoPark (JFK Blvd) accommodates large trucks, while EcoPark2 (Will Clayton) is strictly for standard vehicles.
Utility Financial Assistance in Houston
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs and BakerRipley’s Utility Assistance Program offers low-income and senior residents utility assistance through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). To qualify for assistance you must be a resident of Texas and have a household gross income of 150% or less of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
Assistance is also available from the United Way, by dialing 211 in the Houston area, and the Christian Community Service Center.
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Who do I call if my power goes out?
Do not call your electricity provider (REP). You must call CenterPoint Energy at 713-207-2222. CenterPoint is the Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) that owns the poles and wires for the entire Houston region. Your billing company (like Reliant, TXU, or Gexa) cannot fix a power outage.
Why is there a "Switch Hold" on my new address?
A “Switch Hold” is placed on a meter when a previous tenant leaves with an unpaid balance or if tampering was detected. It prevents you from turning on new service. To remove it, you must submit a New Occupant Statement along with your lease or closing documents to your chosen provider to prove you are not associated with the previous tenant.
Why is my electric bill higher than the rate I signed up for?
This is likely due to TDU Delivery Charges. These are fees charged by CenterPoint Energy to deliver the power to your home. They are passed through to you at cost and are added on top of your energy rate. As of 2026, these charges include a fixed monthly fee (approx. $4.90) and a variable rate (approx. 6.0 cents per kWh), which helps fund grid maintenance and storm resiliency.
How do I know if I have City of Houston water or a MUD?
Check your address on the TCEQ Water District Viewer or look at your property tax bill. If you pay taxes to a “Municipal Utility District” (e.g., Harris County MUD #55), you must set up water and trash service with that specific district’s operator (such as Inframark, SiEnvironmental, or MDS), not the City of Houston.
Can I recycle glass in my curbside bin?
Yes, if you are a City of Houston resident. The city accepts glass bottles and jars in the green recycling bins. If you live in a MUD, check with your private hauler (e.g., Best Trash or Texas Pride Disposal), though most major private haulers in the area now accept glass as well.
When is "Heavy Trash" pickup?
For City of Houston residents, heavy trash is collected once a month. The type of waste rotates:
-
Odd Months (Jan, Mar, May): Tree Waste Only (clean wood/branches).
-
Even Months (Feb, Apr, Jun): Junk Waste (furniture, appliances) + Tree Waste.
Note: Private MUD haulers usually do not follow this schedule and may take heavy items weekly; check your specific provider’s guidelines.
Who provides natural gas in Houston?
For most of the city, CenterPoint Energy is the sole provider. However, if you are in a newer master-planned community (like Sienna, Cross Creek Ranch, or Jordan Ranch), your provider might be SiEnergy. Check your gas meter or ask your HOA.
Which toll tag works best in Houston?
We recommend the Harris County EZ TAG. While state TxTags work in Houston, the Harris County Toll Road Authority (HCTRA) manages the local tollways and recently took over billing operations for the region to improve reliability. The EZ TAG also works in Kansas, Oklahoma, and as of March 2025, it is interoperable with Florida’s SunPass lanes.
Do I need to be home to turn on my natural gas?
Generally, yes. If the gas was physically turned off (common in vacant homes), a technician must enter the home to perform a safety check and light pilot lights. An adult (18+) must be present for this appointment.
How do the 2026 CenterPoint delivery charge increases impact my open-market electric rate?
When you shop for a fixed-rate plan on the Texas Power to Choose portal, the advertised price usually bundles the REP’s energy cost with CenterPoint’s pass-through fees. Because CenterPoint’s component rose to $4.90 a month and 5.146 cents per kWh on June 1, 2026, any variable-rate contract or newly executed fixed contract will automatically absorb this spike. Tracking this baseline is critical, as over half of your total power bill at low-usage tiers now flows directly to infrastructure delivery before factoring in your actual energy supply costs.
Why did my Houston water bill jump by hundreds of dollars when my usage only doubled?
Houston utilizes a highly aggressive, non-linear tiered pricing model for combined water and sewer utilities. If your household consumption climbs from a conservative 1,000 gallons to a heavy 14,000 gallons due to summer lawn watering or filling a pool, your bill doesn’t just multiply by fourteen—it leaps from $35.06 to $377.27. The city intentionally structures the higher tiers with extreme volumetric surcharges to enforce conservation and fund aging water main overhauls.
What is the alternating "Tree Waste vs. Junk Waste" bulk trash rule?
Houston operates a highly specific, alternating bi-monthly bulk collection schedule. During odd-numbered months (such as January, March, and May), the city will only collect clean “Tree Waste” consisting of organic branches, brush, and limbs. During even-numbered months (such as February, April, and June), they switch to collecting “Junk Waste,” which includes old furniture, appliances, and mattresses. Attempting to place regular furniture on the curb during a tree-waste month will result in a missed collection and a formal code enforcement citation.