Compare Harlingen Electricity Rates and Companies 

Thanks to energy deregulation, you have the power to choose your electricity company and energy plan in Harlingen, Texas.

The average electricity rate in Harlingen is slightly higher than the statewide average, which is 14.68 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), according to January 2025 data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). However, you can find rates ranging from as low as 11 cents per kWh to well over 20 cents per kWh, depending on the energy plan and light company you choose. And with dozens of companies and hundreds of plans on the market, selecting the best plan for your personal energy needs can be challenging.

We recommend assessing your energy consumption, comparing electricity rates, and reviewing energy providers based on an array of factors, including customer service and online experience. By using this guide, you can find the best energy plan for your Harlingen energy needs.

Today’s Harlingen Electricity Plans and Rates

In the table below, you can compare some of the top energy plans with the best rates for Harlingen. While these plans don’t advertise the cheapest energy rates, they provide predictable monthly energy bills, which can help you better budget for your energy needs. 

While you may be able to find plans offering cheaper rates than those below, note that many such plans will leverage bill credits, which don’t always guarantee energy savings. Bill credits are usage-based discounts only if your usage consistently meets the credit requirements. By signing up for a fixed-rate, 12-month plan with zero bill credits, you can feel confident you’ll enjoy competitive rates with predictable monthly bills.

The rates in the above table are updated daily for the AEP Central service area. Monthly bill estimates are for 1,000 kWh usage.

Cheapest Electricity Rates in Harlingen

Although the lowest advertised prices per kilowatt-hour can be tempting, we suggest being skeptical of ultra-cheap electric rates. Plans with the lowest advertised rates often rely on usage-based discounts that you’re not guaranteed to earn every month.

The most popular example of such a plan type is the bill credit plan, many of which offer rates as low as 10 cents per kWh. When your usage meets the discount requirements, which can be a minimum, a maximum, or a range of kilowatt-hours, you’ll receive a discount on your monthly energy bills. However, if your usage doesn’t meet the required kilowatt-hour threshold, you won’t earn the discount, and your effective energy rate can double.

However, if you fail to meet the usage requirements in a given month, you won’t qualify for the discount, and your energy rate can double. While you may see an advertised rate of 10 or 11 cents per kWh, your effective energy rate can be well over 20 cents per kWh, significantly higher than the statewide average. 

Before signing up for any of the plans below, assess your energy usage to make sure you’ll be able to take advantage of the bill credit savings.

The rates in the above table are updated daily for the AEP Central service area. Monthly bill estimates are for 1,000 kWh usage.

How To Choose an Electricity Plan in Harlingen

Choosing an energy plan in Harlingen is about more than just low rates. We recommend choosing an energy plan based on how and when you use energy. You should start your energy shopping journey by assessing your energy usage.

Step 1: Determine Your Electricity Usage Needs

To determine your energy usage, review your past utility bills for an entire year or access detailed data through Smart Meter Texas. When selecting a plan that best suits your usage habits, consider factors such as seasonal changes in energy consumption and the type of plan that best suits your usage habits. Knowing your usage is essential for selecting the right energy plan and ensuring accurate pricing because energy plans advertise their rates at the following key usage levels: 500 kWh, 1,000 kWh and 2,000 kWh.

Step 2: Research Plans and Rates That Fit Your Needs

After determining your energy usage, you can compare energy plans and rates in your area. You’ll find various energy plan types, including fixed-rate, variable-rate, and time-of-use, each with different contract lengths and service areas. Each plan type offers diverse benefits. Some plans offer solar buyback rates for Texans who have solar panels. Others may provide discounted — or free — electric vehicle (EV) charging rates. Compare energy plans and their benefits before selecting your energy plan. And be sure to check that any discounts will apply based on your energy usage.

Remember that certain plans or providers may only be available in specific locations. For instance, a plan may be available in Harlingen but not in Houston or Dallas. We recommend choosing fixed-rate plans with 12-month terms since they offer predictable bills with no hidden fees or gimmicks.

Step 3: Begin the Switch to a New Energy Provider

After you select the plan that best suits your needs, the sign-up process takes just a few minutes. Whether online or over the phone, we can help you get your lights turned on in just a few minutes. Your new energy provider will take care of the rest, including notifying your current provider of the change and ensuring your service begins on the agreed-upon date.

Plan Types Available in Harlingen

When shopping for an energy plan in Harlingen, you’ll find a wide range of plan options available. We recommend fixed-rate energy plans, but you can explore other popular plan types below.

• Fixed-rate plans: A fixed price for the entire duration of your contract
• Bill credit plans: Low advertised rates that can result in unforeseen charges
• Time-of-use plans: Discounted  — or even “free” energy — during off-peak hours, but with complicated rates that can lead to high bills
• Green energy plans: Electricity plans sourced from renewable energy, such as wind or solar power
• Variable-rate plans: Rates that change monthly, potentially causing unpredictable bills
• No-deposit plans: Avoid a deposit or credit check, but risk high energy rates

Top Harlingen Energy Companies

The highest-rated energy providers in our review include TriEagle Energy, Reliant Energy and Green Mountain Energy.

That said, the best company for you may depend on many factors. For instance, Payless Power is our top recommendation for customers who want no-deposit lights. Meanwhile, TXU Energy is worth consideration for Texans who prioritize customer service above cost. Energy providers Gexa Energy, 4Change Energy, and Frontier Utilities are known for offering the lowest rates.

You can explore more electricity companies in the table below.

What To Know About Electricity in Harlingen

We’ve compiled several expert tips for energy shopping in Harlingen. First, note that energy plans can feature complex rate structures, which may include hard-to-earn discounts. Additionally, most fixed-rate plans include cancellation fees that take effect if you end your contract early. To make sure you’re not taken by surprise by fees, discounts or other charges, we recommend starting your energy shopping journey by reviewing the plan documents, including the facts label.

How To Read an Electricity Facts Label

Every electricity plan comes with an electricity facts label (EFL) — an important document outlining your plan’s rates, utility fees, base charges, cancellation fees and other contract terms. You can identify which best suits your electricity use by reviewing the EFL and comparing it to how your home consumes electricity.

Find Out If Your Energy Plan Includes Early Termination Fees

Early termination fees (ETFs) apply if you cancel a fixed-rate plan before your contract ends. Review your current plan’s EFL or check the terms when comparing new plans to determine if you’ll owe an ETF. Some providers may offer to cover these fees if you switch to their service, so it’s worth inquiring about any available promotions. ETF amounts typically range from $150 to $395, depending on the length of your contract. That said, some light companies charge a rate per month left in your contract.

Watch Out for Free Nights and Weekends Plans

Time-of-use plans offer discounted or even $0 rates during off-peak periods, such as weekends or overnight, while charging high rates during peak demand periods. The higher rates charged during the paid, peak hours can outweigh the savings during the off-peak times, making these plans unpredictable. Additionally, time-of-use plans require you to adjust your energy usage so that your home uses the most energy during off-peak hours. This can be difficult, if not impossible for most Texans, due to air conditioning use, which is often highest during peak paid hours.

When To Switch or Shop Energy Providers

The best time to consider switching providers or shopping around for a new energy plan is typically in the spring or fall, when mild weather leads to reduced energy usage and lower electricity rates.

That said, if your energy contract is ending, you should take that as an opportunity to compare energy providers and electricity rates. Start your search at least one month before your contract ends. However, you can schedule a future service start day between 60 and 90 days out. If prices are low now, but your contract isn’t up for another two or three months, you may still be able to lock in a low rate for future savings.

For those moving to a deregulated energy city, it’s best to start looking for a new provider at least 30 days before your move-in date to ensure you have time to compare plans and get your lights turned on in time.

How Does Deregulated Energy Work in Harlingen?

Deregulation broke up utility monopolies in Texas and created a three-part system in which generators produce electricity, light companies buy and sell energy, and transmission and distribution utilities (TDUs) manage the power grid.

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) oversees the state’s electric grid and ensures reliable service. Meanwhile, ERCOT and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) oversee wholesale auctions where generators sell electricity to power companies. Those power companies then sell that electricity to homes and businesses across Texas. Utility companies then deliver that power via the grid.

Which TDU serves Harlingen?

AEP Central manages the power grid in the Harlingen area. AEP charges delivery fees, which you’ll find on your power bill. The utility company typically charges both a flat monthly fee and a fee per kilowatt-hour of energy usage.

Because AEP manages the power grid, you should contact it during a power outage rather than attempting to contact your light company.

Frequently Asked Questions

What company is the cheapest energy provider in Harlingen, Texas?

As of March 2025, 4Change Energy, Gexa Energy and Frontier Utilities advertise the cheapest energy rates in Harlingen with bill credit energy plans. However, due to the unpredictability of bill credits, we typically recommend more straightforward options from TriEagle Energy or Rhythm Energy.

What company is the best energy provider in Harlingen, Texas?

In our review of dozens of electricity companies in Texas, our top-rated providers include Reliant Energy, TriEagle Energy, TXU Energy, and Green Mountain Energy. Rhythm Energy, Constellation Energy and Champion Energy also earned top marks. However, the best energy provider will depend on your needs and budget. We suggest comparing light company reviews to assess the pros and cons before selecting a specific energy company.

What is a good electricity rate in Harlingen, Texas?

A good electricity rate in Harlingen typically ranges between 13 to 17 cents per kWh for a gimmick-free, fixed-rate plan. Rates below 12 cents per kWh may be tempting, but be sure to check for any hidden fees or gimmicks, such as bill credits or usage limits, that may impact monthly costs. Always review the EFL to ensure the plan aligns with your energy usage and budget needs.

How We Rate and Review Texas Electricity Companies

With dozens of providers and hundreds of plans available in the deregulated Texas market, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. We created a comprehensive rating methodology to help you cut through the complexity and find the best electricity plan for your needs, whether you’re moving to Texas or looking to switch providers.

We’ve researched dozens of Texas electricity providers and scored them out of 5 stars based on results from our 2025 energy survey of 1,600 Texans, scoring providers on customer satisfaction, experience and retention. Here’s how these core factors weighed into our ratings:

• Customer satisfaction (30%)
• Customer retention (30%)
• Online experience (20%)
• Customer experience (20%)