Compare Utility Providers in Houston, TX

Top 43 Electric Providers in Houston

Solar in Houston

Natural Gas Providers in Houston

Top 11 Internet Providers in Houston

*Not all internet providers and speeds available in all areas.

Water & Sewage Providers in Houston

Top 24 Trash and Recycling Providers in Houston

Utilities Summary for Houston, TX

Electric Companies:	43
Natural Gas Companies:	1
Water & Sewage Providers:	48
Garbage, Trash & Recycling Providers:	24
Municipal Electricity:	No

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 of electricity in Houston, numerous Retail Electric Providers (REPs) offer various plans to suit your needs.

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.

Notable Retail Electric Providers in Houston:

• Reliant: Houston’s favorite electricity provider. Named “Best of the Best” by the Houston Chronicle, Reliant is consistently voted the top electricity provider in Houston by local customers for its personalized plans, strong customer service, and innovative tools. Reliant is one of the most recognized electricity providers in Texas, offering a wide range of fixed-rate and renewable energy plans. Known for its strong customer service and mobile app, Reliant also provides tools to monitor usage and manage bills conveniently.
• TXU Energy: TXU Energy has been serving Texans for over a century and offers flexible plans with perks like free nights or weekends. They’re known for customer loyalty programs, straightforward billing, and green energy options.
• Gexa Energy: Gexa Energy specializes in 100% renewable electricity plans at competitive prices. Their online tools make it easy to compare plan options, and they often offer promotions for new customers, including smart thermostats or bill credits.
• Direct Energy: Direct Energy offers a variety of plan types, including fixed-rate, prepaid, and green energy plans. They also provide insights into your energy usage through a user-friendly online dashboard and are backed by one of the largest energy companies in North America.
• Champion Energy Services: Based in Houston, Champion Energy serves residential, governmental, commercial, and industrial customers across several states. They have been recognized for high customer satisfaction and offer various energy plans to meet different needs.

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 Services

CenterPoint Energy is also the primary provider of natural gas services in Houston. They deliver natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers, ensuring safe and reliable service.

Water and Trash Services

The City of Houston’s Public Works Department manages water and trash services for residents.

Water Services:

• Water Quality: Houston’s water meets or exceeds all federal and state standards. The city sources water from rivers and lakes, treating it to ensure safety and quality.
• Conservation Programs: The city offers programs and resources to promote water conservation, including free water-efficient fixtures and irrigation efficiency check.

Trash and Recycling Services:

• Solid Waste Management: The City of Houston provides weekly curbside trash pickup and bi-weekly recycling services.
• Bulk Waste Collection: Scheduled pickups are available for large items like furniture and appliances.

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.

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.

Houston Internet Connectivity

Fastest Internet Providers in Houston

Houston 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.