Compare Utility Providers in Fort Worth, TX

Top 48 Electric Providers in Fort Worth

Top 2 Natural Gas Providers in Fort Worth

Top 8 Internet Providers in Fort Worth

*Not all internet providers and speeds available in all areas. **2 Gbps speed available in select markets.

Solar Providers in Fort Worth

Water & Sewage Providers in Fort Worth

Top 18 Trash and Recycling Providers in Fort Worth

Utilities Summary for Fort Worth, TX

Electric Companies:	48
Natural Gas Companies:	2
Water & Sewage Providers:	2
Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers:	18
Municipal Electricity:	No

Moving to Fort Worth Utilities Guide: How to Set Up Water, Gas, and Electric

Your complete roadmap to navigating deregulation, connecting services, and settling into Panther City without the stress.

Moving is rarely a relaxing experience, but landing in Fort Worth, often affectionately called Panther City by locals, makes the effort worthwhile. While you’re probably excited to explore the Stockyards or check out Sundance Square, we first have to tackle the logistics of getting your new home running. Texas utility laws can be confusing for newcomers, especially with the unique “Power to Choose” electricity system. We’re here to demystify the process so you can stop worrying about deposits and start focusing on unpacking your life in this vibrant city.

Quick Reference: Fort Worth Utilities at a Glance

Utility Type	Provider Name	Contact/Action
Electricity	“Power to Choose” (Various Retailers)	Shop plans above
Water/Sewer	City of Fort Worth	817-392-4477
Natural Gas	Atmos Energy	888-286-6700
Trash/Recycling	City of Fort Worth	Assigned by address
Internet	AT&T, Spectrum, Frontier	Varies by neighborhood

When To Set Up Each Utility Before Your Move

To avoid a scramble on moving day, use this timeline to organize your setup. The timing really matters here, especially for services that require a technician visit.

• 2 Weeks Before: Compare electricity plans and choose a provider.
• 1 Week Before: Schedule Atmos Energy if gas is currently off.
• 3–5 Days Before: Submit your water and sewer application. Confirm trash pickup days and schedule internet installation.

Electricity: How to Shop for Power in Fort Worth

If you’re moving from a state with regulated energy, the Texas electricity market might feel overwhelming at first. Because the market is deregulated, you have the power to choose which company bills you for electricity. This competition can save you money, but only if you know exactly what to look for when you compare electricity plans in Texas.

Understanding Deregulation

In Fort Worth, the electricity infrastructure is split into two distinct roles. Oncor is the Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU); they own the “tracks” (poles and wires) and are responsible for fixing outages and maintaining the grid. You cannot choose Oncor; they are assigned by geography. However, you do get to choose the “train” that runs on those tracks. This is your Retail Electric Provider (REP), such as TXU Energy, Reliant, or Green Mountain Energy. You will pay the REP for your usage, and they will handle customer service billing issues. If your lights go out during a storm, you call Oncor. If you have a question about your bill, you call your REP.

Choosing the Right Plan

Selecting the right electricity plan is the most critical step in setting up your utilities. When browsing options, you’ll see fixed-rate plans and variable-rate plans. We strongly recommend sticking to fixed-rate plans. Here is a quick comparison to help you decide:

• Fixed-Rate Plans: Offer price stability and predictable bills. Best for most residents.
• Variable-Rate Plans: Offer flexibility with no contracts, but rates can spike unpredictably.

Fixed-rate plans lock in your price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the duration of your contract (usually 12 to 36 months). Variable rates can fluctuate wildly with the market, leading to expensive surprises during the hot Texas summer. Be wary of plans offering “free nights and weekends,” as these often come with significantly higher daytime rates that offset the savings.

Before signing up, you should always read the Electricity Facts Label (EFL). This document reveals the true price per kWh at different usage levels and highlights any hidden fees.

Going Green in Texas

Fort Worth residents have excellent access to renewable energy. Because Texas is a national leader in wind power generation, many providers offer 100% renewable energy plans that are competitively priced against traditional fossil fuel plans. Choosing a green plan is an easy way to lower your carbon footprint and save on your electric bill without necessarily increasing your monthly budget.

Top 5 Electric Providers in Fort Worth

The following providers have been selected and scored based on the Utilities For My Home methodology, which applies the following weights: Price & Value (35%), Fees & Fine Print (15%), Reliability & Complaints (20%), Plan Breadth (10%), Independent Trust Signals (10%), and Customer Sentiment (10%).

1. Champion Energy Services – 4.6 / 5.0

Best Overall Provider

Champion Energy Services, a subsidiary of Calpine Corporation, is one of the nation’s largest and most established retail electric providers. Unlike many competitors that rely on “teaser rates” or complex usage credits, Champion has built its brand on straightforward, fixed-rate plans and 24/7 customer support based in Texas. They act as the “safe harbor” of the market, backed by the financial stability of a major power generator while maintaining the agility of a customer-focused retailer.   

Why They Rank Here: Champion secures the top spot by excelling in the high-weight categories of Reliability (20%) and Trust Signals (10%). They have ranked “Highest in Residential Customer Satisfaction” by J.D. Power for six of the last seven years, a level of consistency unmatched in the sector. While their Price (35%) is not the absolute floor of the market, it scores highly on “Value” because their rates are linear—meaning you pay a consistent price per kWh regardless of whether you use 500 or 2000 kWh, avoiding the “bill shock” common with cheaper, gimmick-based plans.

What People in Fort Worth Are Saying: Sentiment in Fort Worth forums is exceptionally positive, with residents frequently citing long-term loyalty to avoid the “scams” of other providers. One Reddit user in r/FortWorth noted, “I’ve had door-to-door salesmen walk away when I tell them I use Champion because, in their words, they can’t beat Champion’s prices”. Other residents appreciate the billing stability, noting they have used the service for years without unexpected price hikes or hidden fees.   

Best For: Homeowners and families who prioritize billing stability and award-winning support over chasing the lowest possible teaser rate.

2. Rhythm Energy – 4.5 / 5.0

Best for Renters & Green Energy

Rhythm Energy is a modern, digital-first provider that has disrupted the Texas market with a commitment to 100% renewable energy and transparent business practices. They differentiate themselves by treating renewable energy as the standard rather than a premium upsell. Their proprietary technology platform allows for a seamless app experience, and they have taken a strong stance against the “loyalty penalty” by offering the same rates to renewing customers as they do to new sign-ups.   

Why They Rank Here: Rhythm earns a nearly perfect score in Fees & Fine Print (15%) due to their pro-rated Early Termination Fee (ETF) structure. Unlike competitors who charge $295+ if you leave early, Rhythm charges a small fee (typically ~$10-20) only for the months remaining on your contract. This flexibility, combined with high marks in Plan Breadth (10%) for their specialized EV and solar buyback plans, propels them to the #2 spot despite being a newer player than Champion or TXU.   

What People in Fort Worth Are Saying: Fort Worth residents, particularly those who use third-party comparison tools, frequently recommend Rhythm for having the lowest effective rate per kWh. In local discussions, users mention that the signup process was “smooth” and the site was “simple”. There is also significant positive sentiment regarding their referral program, which users describe as a genuine way to lower bills rather than just a marketing gimmick.   

Best For: Renters who need contract flexibility (low cancellation fees) and eco-conscious residents looking for 100% renewable power.

3. Chariot Energy – 4.1 / 5.0

Best for Solar Owners

Chariot Energy is the retail arm of 174 Power Global, a subsidiary of the Hanwha Group, one of the world’s largest solar energy solutions providers. This vertical integration allows Chariot to offer solar-specific rate structures that other retailers simply cannot match. They focus heavily on the “prosumer” market, homeowners who generate their own power, while also offering 100% solar renewable energy plans to standard grid customers without the need for panels.   

Why They Rank Here: Chariot scores exceptionally well in Price & Value (35%) for the solar niche, offering some of the most competitive buyback rates in the Oncor territory. Their strong backing by Hanwha boosts their Reliability (20%) score. However, they rank slightly below the top two because their Plan Breadth (10%) is narrower for non-solar customers, and recent changes to their credit caps have caused some friction in customer sentiment.

What People in Fort Worth Are Saying: The sentiment among Fort Worth’s solar community is strong, with Chariot frequently recommended as the “go-to” for buyback plans. Users have described their rates as a “steal of a deal” for those with battery storage. However, some long-term customers have noted frustration with recent adjustments to buyback credits, advising new customers to read the “Flux Pay” terms carefully.   

Best For: Homeowners with rooftop solar panels looking to maximize their return on investment through buyback credits.

4. TriEagle Energy – 4.0 / 5.0

Best for Straightforward Billing

TriEagle Energy, a brand under the Vistra Corp umbrella, positions itself as the “no-nonsense” alternative in the market. They eschew the complex bundled offers (like free thermostats or airline miles) associated with their sister company TXU, focusing instead on simple, fixed-rate electricity plans. Their business model is built on transparency, appealing to budget-conscious consumers who use comparison tools to find the best effective rate.   

Why They Rank Here: TriEagle scores highly in Independent Trust Signals (10%) and Price & Value (35%) due to their straightforward Electricity Facts Labels (EFLs). They rarely utilize “minimum usage fees” or deceptive credit tiers, meaning a customer pays a predictable rate regardless of usage swings. They are deducted slightly on Plan Breadth (10%) as they lack the innovative EV or time-of-use products offered by Rhythm and TXU.

What People in Fort Worth Are Saying: Reviews from Fort Worth residents often describe TriEagle as “boring in a good way.” One user in r/FortWorth stated, “I switched to them after [competitor] started screwing me. One of the best decisions I made”. Other users highlight that despite living in older, less efficient homes, their bills remained reasonable during the summer heatwaves, validating the fairness of TriEagle’s rate structures.

Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers who want a simple, “set it and forget it” fixed rate without any bells and whistles.

5. TXU Energy – 3.6 / 5.0

Best for Reliability & EV Perks

TXU Energy is the legacy incumbent in North Texas, commanding the largest market share and highest brand recognition. As a subsidiary of Vistra Corp, they operate with immense scale, offering a vast array of services including home warranties, A/C protection, and highly specific time-of-use plans (such as “Free Nights”). They are known for their robust mobile app and comprehensive payment assistance programs for vulnerable customers.   

Why They Rank Here: TXU makes the list on the strength of Reliability (20%) and Plan Breadth (10%). They offer more plan types (Solar, EV, Free Nights, Season Pass) than almost any other provider. However, their overall score is impacted by Price & Value (35%), as they typically carry a “brand premium” that makes them 15-20% more expensive than competitors like TriEagle or Chariot. Their Fees (15%) score also suffers due to high flat-rate cancellation fees ($150-$295).

What People in Fort Worth Are Saying: Sentiment is polarized. While many long-time residents trust TXU implicitly due to their history, others criticize their renewal offers. However, positive feedback highlights their superior customer service, with one user noting, “The representatives on the phone have gone above and beyond… they helped me get the bill taken care of when other companies would have just said pay or go without”.   

Best For: EV owners who can shift usage to “Free Night” windows, and customers who prioritize brand stability and customer assistance programs over low rates.

Why Trust Our Rankings

Our team utilizes a transparent, data-driven methodology to evaluate Retail Electric Providers (REPs). We do not accept payment for better rankings. Our process involves:

1. Analyzing EFLs: We manually review Electricity Facts Labels to uncover hidden tiers and base charges that inflate costs.
2. Verifying Credentials: We cross-reference PUCT complaint data, BBB accreditation, and financial stability to ensure we only recommend providers who will be there when you need them.
3. Community Listening: We monitor local discussions in Fort Worth forums to capture real-time customer sentiment regarding billing and support.

For a full breakdown of how we calculate these scores, please visit our Full Methodology Page.

Monitor Your Usage with Smart Meter Texas

Most Fort Worth residents are unaware that they have access to their raw energy data. Because Oncor installed digital meters across the city, you can view your electricity usage in 15-minute intervals.

We recommend creating a free account at Smart Meter Texas. This is the official state-endorsed portal.

• Why use it? It allows you to see exactly when you use the most power.
• Troubleshooting: If your bill spikes, check your 15-minute usage data. You might find that a malfunctioning A/C unit is running continuously while you are at work.

Budgeting for Electricity: The “Summer Spike” Reality

If you are moving to Fort Worth from a state with a mild climate, your first August electric bill can be a shock. Texas electricity usage is heavily seasonal. While your bill might be manageable in March, it can easily triple in the summer due to air conditioning.

The “Bill Shock” Estimator

To help you budget accurately, we have modeled estimated costs for Fort Worth homes based on local usage patterns and an average market rate of ~13.3¢ per kWh. Note that your actual rate will depend on the plan you choose.

Housing Profile	Sq. Ft. (Approx)	Winter Bill Est. (Low A/C)	Summer Bill Est. (High A/C)
Studio / 1-Bed Apt	600 – 850	$55 – $85	$110 – $160
2-Bed / 2-Bath Apt	900 – 1,200	$80 – $120	$150 – $220
Small Home (3-Bed)	1,500 – 2,000	$120 – $180	$250 – $350
Large Home (4-Bed+)	2,500+	$190 – $250	$400 – $600+

Oncor Energy Efficiency Rebates & Discounts

As the largest transmission and distribution utility in Texas, Oncor operates the Take A Load Off, Texas® program, which provides financial incentives for energy-saving upgrades in homes and businesses. These programs are designed to make energy efficiency more affordable and accessible for everyone. Oncor’s energy efficiency programs are available to residential customers within its service area, including Fort Worth. These programs typically run from January through November each year. Participation is open to both homeowners and renters (with landlord approval).

• New Homes Program: Encourages homebuilders to construct ENERGY STAR® certified or Zero Energy Ready Homes by offering incentives. These homes are designed to be more energy-efficient, leading to lower utility bills for homeowners.
• Home Energy Efficiency Program: Offers incentives for upgrades such as insulation, weatherization, and high-efficiency heating and cooling systems. For example, replacing an old HVAC system with a high-efficiency model can qualify for incentives ranging from $300 to $3,500, depending on the equipment and location.
• Low-Income Weatherization Program: Provides free weatherization services, including insulation, caulking, and weather-stripping, to households meeting income eligibility requirements. This program helps reduce energy use without requiring large investments in new equipment.
• Retail Products Program: Offers in-store discounts on energy-efficient products like LED bulbs, smart thermostats, and advanced power strips. Discounts can be up to $65 on smart thermostats and up to $50 on appliances like washers and dryers.
• Solar Photovoltaic Incentives: Provides rebates for installing solar panels, helping offset the initial investment and promote renewable energy use.

Natural Gas: Starting Service With Atmos Energy

Natural gas is a common utility in Fort Worth, used primarily for water heaters, furnaces, and kitchen ranges. Atmos Energy is the sole provider for the North Texas region, so there is no need to shop around for rates here. You can easily set up your account online, but the timing really matters here.

You should schedule your start date at least one week in advance. If the gas service at your new home has been disconnected, Atmos Energy will require an adult to be present at the property when the technician arrives to turn it back on. This is a safety precaution to check for leaks and ensure all pilot lights are lit correctly. Atmos may also perform a basic safety check at your appliances when they restore service. If the gas is currently on, they can usually transfer service without an appointment.

You can begin your application on the Atmos Energy “Start Service” page.

Water and Sewer: Working With the City

Unlike electricity, water and sewer services are not deregulated. You must set up your account directly with the City of Fort Worth Water Department. Setting this up is straightforward, but you should handle it a few days before your move to ensure the water is running when you arrive with boxes.

To start service, you’ll likely need to pay a standard activation fee, which is typically around $20. Depending on your credit history, the city may also require a security deposit, often starting at $50. If you have a good payment history with another utility or meet specific age requirements, you might be able to get this deposit waived. We recommend calling the utility line or visiting their online portal 3–5 days before your move-in date to process the application. However, exact fees can change, so always confirm current amounts on the city’s website.

How to Start Service

• The Provider: Fort Worth Water Department.
• Phone: 817-392-4477 (24/7). Select Option 2 for new accounts/billing. Select Option 1 for emergencies like main breaks.
• In-Person: 100 Fort Worth Trail (City Hall) or 908 Monroe Street.

For more details on applications and fees, visit the City of Fort Worth Water Department “New Service” page.

Essential Tool: The MyH2O Portal

We strongly recommend every resident register immediately for MyH2O. This is the city’s official digital dashboard.

• Leak Detection: The portal updates your water usage data daily. If you see water being used at 3:00 AM when everyone is asleep, you likely have a running toilet or a slab leak. Catching this early prevents massive bills.

The “Winter Quarter Averaging” Hack (How to Lower Your Sewer Bill)

Here is an insider tip that most new residents miss: Your sewer bill for the entire year is determined by how much water you use in December, January, and February.

• How it works: The city assumes that water used in the winter goes down the drain (showers, toilets), while water used in summer often goes onto the lawn.
• The Strategy: If you water your lawn heavily or fill a pool during these three winter months, you will lock in a higher sewer rate for the next 12 months. Keep your water usage strictly necessary during the winter to secure the lowest possible sewer rate for the rest of the year.

Trash and Recycling: Understanding the Schedule

In Fort Worth, your trash and recycling services are bundled with your water bill, so there is no separate setup process required. Once your water account is active, your trash service is automatically activated. The city provides large rolling carts, brown for garbage and blue for recycling.

There are a few specific rules to keep in mind to ensure your trash is collected. The “7 A.M. Rule” is strict: you must have your carts at the curb by 7 a.m. on your designated pickup day. For move-in debris, the city offers a generous monthly bulk pickup allowance, letting you set out up to about 10 cubic yards of material (about the size of a standard parking space) next to your cart. Always double-check current limits on the city website so you don’t get missed. However, for regular weekly trash, if your cart is overflowing and the lid won’t close, the truck may skip it unless you use official “Pay Bags” for the excess.

Recycling Rules: The “No Tanglers” Policy

Fort Worth’s recycling machinery is sensitive. To avoid your bin being rejected:

• Do NOT Bag Recyclables: Items must be loose in the blue cart. Plastic bags jam the sorting machines.
• No “Tanglers”: Garden hoses, wire hangers, and holiday lights are prohibited.
• Accepted: Flattened cardboard, metal food cans, glass jars, and plastic bottles (keep caps on).

Bulk Waste: The “Once-a-Month” Rule

Moving creates a lot of debris. Unlike your weekly carts, large items (furniture, mattresses, brush) are collected only once a month during your designated week.

• The Limit: You are allowed a pile of up to 10 cubic yards (roughly the size of a Volkswagen Beetle).
• The Timing: The pile must be on the curb by 7:00 AM on the Monday of your assigned week. Even if the truck doesn’t come until Wednesday, if it’s not there Monday morning, they may skip you.
• Check Your Schedule

Internet and Cable: Staying Connected

High-speed internet availability in Fort Worth varies significantly depending on your specific neighborhood and even your street. The major players in the area are AT&T Fiber, Spectrum, and Frontier. While Spectrum covers a vast majority of the city with cable internet, AT&T and Frontier are rapidly expanding their fiber-optic networks.

We recommend checking for fiber availability at your new address first, as fiber generally offers the fastest upload speeds and most reliable connection for working from home. If fiber isn’t available, cable internet is a solid runner-up. You can learn more about how to compare internet speeds and types to decide which bandwidth fits your household needs.

Best Internet Providers in Fort Worth, TX

Several internet service providers offer coverage in Fort Worth:

• AT&T: Known for their fiber-optic broadband in certain parts of the city, AT&T offers high-speed internet plans that are reliable and fast, especially for homes with multiple users. Available in about 84% of the city.
• Spectrum: Provides cable internet with widespread coverage across the city, about 86% of the area, offering competitive speeds and bundles with TV and phone services.
• T-Mobile Home Internet: If you don’t have access to AT&T and Spectrum, or are looking for a wireless alternative, 5G Home Internet might be the answer. Bundle with your mobile phone plan to save.

Tips for Choosing an Internet Provider

When choosing an internet provider, consider the following factors:

• Speed Needs: Assess how much speed you need based on your internet activities (e.g., streaming, gaming, remote work).
• Price: Compare pricing structures between providers, and inquire about promotions or discounts for new customers.
• Contract Terms: Some providers offer no-contract plans, while others may lock you into a contract with penalties for early termination.

Smart Moves: How to Waive Deposits and Budget

Moving is expensive enough without handing over hundreds of dollars in security deposits to utility companies. Fortunately, you can often keep that cash in your pocket if you know what to ask for. Most providers in Fort Worth, including electric retailers and the city water department, offer deposit waivers if you meet specific criteria.

The most common way to waive a deposit is by providing a “Letter of Credit.” If you’re looking for a Fort Worth utilities deposit waiver, most providers will accept a letter from your previous utility provider showing 12 consecutive months of on-time payments. Additionally, adults over the age of 65 are often exempt from deposits, as are certified victims of family violence. You must ask about these waivers before you pay the deposit; it’s much harder to get a refund after the transaction has gone through. Each provider has slightly different rules, so always ask for their full deposit waiver policy before you pay.

Welcome Home to Panther City

Settling into Fort Worth is an exciting chapter, and having your utilities sorted early means you can enjoy your first night in your new home without stress. While it takes a few phone calls to get everything connected, handling these tasks a week before your move will ensure the lights are on and the water is running when you walk through the door. We suggest tackling your electricity choice first, as finding the right plan requires the most research. Once that’s done, the rest is just a matter of checking boxes.

Financial Assistance for Utility Bills in Fort Worth

City and State Assistance

Several programs are available to help with utility bills in Fort Worth:

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Offered through the state of Texas, WAP provides free weatherization services to low-income families, helping them reduce energy costs.
• Energy Assistance Program (EAP): The city offers the EAP to help low-income households pay for energy costs, including electric and gas bills.
• Fort Worth’s Utility Assistance Program: This program provides short-term financial assistance for eligible residents who are unable to pay their utility bills.

How to Apply

To apply for assistance, contact Fort Worth’s Community Action Partners or visit the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs (TDHCA) website to learn more about available programs.

Fort Worth Internet Connectivity

Fastest Internet Providers in Fort Worth

Fort Worth 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.