- Free modem and anti-virus software
- No contracts and unlimited data
- 30 day money-back gurantee
- Speeds up to 2 Gbps**
- Plans starting at $30/month
Top 2 Electric Providers in El Paso
Electricity in El Paso is provided by El Paso Electric (EPE), and you should establish service at least three business days before moving in by calling or using their online portal. The biggest “quirk” for those moving from elsewhere in Texas is that El Paso is not part of the deregulated ERCOT grid; you cannot shop for a different provider here, but you also won’t have to worry about the statewide grid issues often seen in Dallas or Houston.
Natural Gas Providers in El Paso
Natural gas is managed by Texas Gas Service, and we recommend scheduling your start date at least one week in advance via their website or by calling. Since many historic homes in neighborhoods like Sunset Heights or Manhattan Heights rely on gas for heating and cooking, ensure an adult is present on move-in day so a technician can perform a safety check and relight your pilot lights.
Top 7 Internet Providers in El Paso
Internet options in El Paso are competitive, with Spectrum and AT&T Fiber being the dominant players, though Vexus Fiber is a rapidly growing local favorite in many neighborhoods. We suggest checking for fiber availability at least two weeks before your move to lock in symmetrical speeds that are essential for the city’s growing community of remote-working “digital nomads.”
- 5 Gbps
- Fiber
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 72.06%
- $34.00/mo
- Best For Speed
- 2 Gbps**
- Cable
- Unlimited
- TV & Phone
- 92.05%
- $30.00/mo
- Most Affordable Plans
- 415 Mbps
- 5G
- 1.2 TB
- Mobile
- 99.82%
- $20.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.34%
- $65.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 300 Mbps
- 5G
- Unlimited
- Mobile
- 99.94%
- $35.00/mo
- Wireless Internet Provider
- 400 Mbps
- Satellite
- Unlimited
- 100%
- $50.00/mo
- Varies
- Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite
- Varies
- 95%
- $39.95/mo
Water & Sewage Providers in El Paso
Water and sewer services are handled by El Paso Water, and you can open an account by calling (915) 594-5500 or visiting one of their service centers. As a desert city, El Paso takes conservation seriously, and your bill will reflect a “tiered” structure where high usage is significantly more expensive to encourage desert-friendly habits.
Top 10 Trash and Recycling Providers in El Paso
Trash and recycling collection is a municipal service provided by the City of El Paso Environmental Services Department, and the fees are conveniently bundled into your monthly water bill. You should download the ESD Works app right away to find your specific “Gray Bin” (trash) and “Blue Bin” (recycling) days and to receive alerts for the city’s holiday schedule.
Utilities Summary for El Paso, TX
| Electric Companies: | 2 |
| Natural Gas Companies: | 1 |
| Water & Sewage Providers: | 2 |
| Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers: | 10 |
| Municipal Electricity: | No |
Settling into El Paso: Electric, Gas, Water, Trash, and Internet Services Explained
Nestled in the westernmost tip of Texas, El Paso is known for its vibrant culture, warm desert climate, and proximity to the U.S.-Mexico border. As a new resident, setting up your utilities is one of the first tasks you’ll want to tackle. Fortunately, the city offers a range of services for electricity, natural gas, water, and trash collection, with several choices for internet providers. This guide will walk you through the process of setting up your utilities, provide details on energy-saving programs, and highlight some unique options for green energy and conservation.
Electricity in El Paso
In El Paso, the electricity market is regulated, meaning that El Paso Electric (EPE) is the sole electricity provider in the area. Unlike other parts of Texas where you can choose from multiple Retail Electric Providers (REPs) due to the state’s deregulated market, El Paso opted to remain under regulation. This means that EPE is responsible for both generating and delivering electricity to residents. As a result, you don’t need to shop around for an electricity supplier, simplifying the process of choosing a plan.
Key Features of El Paso Electric
- Fixed Rates: El Paso Electric typically offers fixed-rate plans that provide stability in your electricity bills. This means you won’t experience unexpected price hikes during the contract term.
- Renewable Energy Options: EPE also provides opportunities for residents to choose renewable energy options, including plans that source power from wind and solar energy.
Energy Efficiency Programs
- El Paso Electric Energy Efficiency Programs: EPE offers rebates for energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems, helping you save money while reducing energy consumption.
- Low-Income Energy Efficiency Program: For eligible customers, this program offers free energy-saving products and services, like insulation and weatherization, to help lower utility bills.
Tips for Managing Your Electricity Usage
- Take advantage of EPE’s energy-saving programs to improve efficiency in your home.
- Monitor your usage through El Paso Electric’s online tools to track your energy consumption and adjust habits accordingly.
- Consider participating in demand response programs where available, which help reduce energy usage during peak demand times, potentially earning you credits or lower rates.
Natural Gas in El Paso
The primary natural gas provider in El Paso is Texas Gas Service. They are responsible for the delivery and maintenance of gas services to your home.
Energy Efficiency Programs
- Texas Gas Service Energy Efficiency Program: Offers rebates for energy-efficient natural gas appliances, as well as a home weatherization program to help you save on energy costs.
Natural Gas Safety Tip: If you detect a gas leak, immediately call Texas Gas Service at their emergency number to ensure safety.
Water and Trash Services in El Paso
Water in El Paso is provided by El Paso Water. The company supplies both drinking water and wastewater services to the city. They also offer water conservation programs, which are especially important given the city’s desert climate.
Water Conservation Programs
- El Paso Water Conservation Programs: The city provides rebates for water-efficient appliances like toilets, faucets, and irrigation systems. They also offer free water-saving kits for new residents.
For trash and recycling services, El Paso offers curbside collection managed by the City of El Paso. The services include:
- Regular Trash Collection: Collected once a week, with special pickups for bulk items.
- Recycling: The city provides single-stream recycling, so you don’t have to separate your recyclables.
- Special Waste Pickup: The city also offers occasional bulk waste pickup services.
Interesting Fact: El Paso’s water system is known for being one of the most efficient in the U.S., with a focus on sustainability and conservation in a water-scarce environment.
Best Internet Providers in El Paso
El Paso boasts several internet providers, so you’ll have options depending on your needs for speed and service.
- Spectrum: Offers cable internet with speeds up to 1,000 Mbps and bundles with TV and phone services. Available in 92% of the El Paso area.
- AT&T: Provides both fiber and DSL internet, with fiber options offering speeds up to 5 Gbps in select areas. AT&T covers around 72% of the homes in El Paso.
- T-Mobile Home Internet: Great for those looking for a wireless alternative with easy setup and no commitment. Speeds up to 415 Mbps over their 5G network. Bundle with mobile phone to save, find special deals for seniors.
Tips for Choosing an Internet Provider
- Check availability in your area, as some providers may not service all parts of the city.
- Consider bundling services (internet + TV + phone) for potential savings.
- Look into fiber internet options for the fastest speeds and best reliability.
Green Energy Choices in El Paso
El Paso has several green energy programs and providers that cater to residents who want to reduce their carbon footprint.
- El Paso Electric Green Energy Program: Offers customers the option to purchase renewable energy sourced from wind and solar power.
- Solar Power: El Paso has a lot of sunshine, making it an ideal city for installing solar panels. Local programs and incentives can help reduce the upfront costs.
Financial Assistance for Utility Bills in El Paso
El Paso provides various financial assistance programs to help qualifying residents manage their utility bills.
City of El Paso Assistance Programs:
- El Paso County General Assistance Program: The county offers assistance to low-income residents through the Utility Assistance Program. This can help cover the costs of electricity, gas, and water bills.
- Emergency Utility Assistance: For those facing an unexpected financial crisis, this program can offer one-time emergency payments.
- El Paso Water AquaCares Program: Available to El Paso water customers in financial hardship and at risk for losing water service. Aid of up to $250 toward your water bill available.
- Project Bravo: A nonprofit organization that provides utility assistance to low-income households through the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP). They offer financial help for gas, electric, and propane bills, with eligibility based on income and household size. Assistance can cover up to 12 months of utility costs, depending on available funding and individual circumstances.
Texas State Assistance:
- Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP): This state-funded program helps low-income households pay their energy bills and is administered by local agencies like El Paso’s Community Action Agency.
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.
El Paso Internet Connectivity
Fastest Internet Providers in El Paso
| Provider | Connection Type | Download Speed | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Fiber | Fiber | 5 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Spectrum | Cable | 2 Gbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| T-Mobile 5G Home Internet | 5G | 415 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| AT&T Air | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Verizon 5G Home Internet | 5G | 300 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Starlink | Satellite | 400 Mbps Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
| Earthlink | Fiber, Cable, 5G, & Satellite | Varies Not all speeds available in all areas |
Check Availability |
El Paso Drinking Water Quality Information
Clean drinking water is essential for maintaining good health and overall well-being. Safe, contaminant-free water helps prevent the spread of diseases, supports proper hydration, and ensures the body's vital functions operate smoothly.
El Paso's Primary Drinking Water Source: Surface Water
Drinking Water Contaminant Levels
Legal limit: 15 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 100 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 60 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: 0.004 ppb
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Legal limit: No Limit Set
Utilities in Nearby Cities
Frequently Asked Questions
Why can't I choose my electric provider like in Dallas?
This is the #1 question new residents ask. El Paso is on the Western Interconnection (the same grid as Las Vegas and Phoenix) rather than the Texas Interconnection (ERCOT). Because of this, El Paso Electric is a regulated monopoly; while you lose the “Power to Choose,” you gain access to one of the most stable power grids in the country.
What are the "Desert Watering" rules?
Water is gold in the Chihuahuan Desert. El Paso has a mandatory year-round watering schedule: if your address ends in an even number, you water Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays; odd numbers water Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. Watering is strictly prohibited between 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. to prevent evaporation.
What is a "Citizen Collection Center" and why do I need a bill to go there?
If you have a mountain of moving boxes or an old couch, you don’t have to wait for a special pickup. El Paso residents can use the city’s Citizen Collection Centers (drop-off sites) for free.
Pro tip: You must bring a printed or digital copy of your most recent El Paso Water bill and a matching ID to prove you are a resident, or they will turn you away at the gate.
Does the "Sun City" offer solar incentives?
Absolutely. If you’re moving into a home with solar panels (or looking to add them), El Paso Electric offers a Net Metering program. Because we get over 300 days of sunshine a year, many residents generate enough power during the day to “bank” credits that lower their bills significantly during the hot summer nights.
What is the "Purified Water" project I keep hearing about?
El Paso is a global leader in water tech. The city operates the Kay Bailey Hutchison Desalination Plant (the largest of its kind in the world away from an ocean) and is currently working on the “Advanced Water Purification” project. This means your tap water is exceptionally safe and highly treated, though it can have a distinct mineral profile due to its desert origins.
How do I handle "the wind" and my trash bins?
El Paso is famous for its spring windstorms. A local “Knowledgeable Neighbor” tip: if you live on a street that gets high gusts, wait until the morning of your pickup to roll your bins out. Every spring, the city’s 311 line is flooded with calls for “runaway bins” that have tumbled down the block!