Ranchero Power is a retail electricity provider (REP) in Texas, specializing in fixed-rate plans with contract terms ranging from 6 to 48 months. As of February 2025, the company offers six fixed-rate plans, along with a bill credit plan and a variable-rate plan.
- Ranchero Power relies mostly on traditional fossil fuel generation, with a renewable energy content of only 6% in its electricity plans.
- However, you can upgrade any plan to 100% renewable energy for an additional cost of 2 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh).
Founded in 2019, Ranchero Power serves most areas of Texas with deregulated electricity, with the exception of Lubbock. Its electricity plans are available in major cities like Houston, Dallas, Fort Worth, Arlington and Corpus Christi.
Ranchero Power Plans and Rates in Texas
Ranchero Power specializes in fixed-rate plans, but it also provides a bill credit plan and a variable-rate plan:
- Fixed-rate plans: The Ranchero Smart & Fixed Rate Plan is available with contract terms of 6, 12, 18, 24, 36 and 48 months. All versions of this plan have below-average electricity rates and an early termination fee (ETF) of $179, regardless of the months left in your contract. The 48-month plan also includes a $50 bill credit on your first bill but has higher rates compared to the shorter-term options.
- Variable-rate plan: The Ranchero No Contract Advantage Plan has no minimum term and ETF, allowing you to switch to another plan at any time without penalties. However, this plan also has a variable rate that can change monthly, which leads to unpredictable power bills.
- Bill credit plan: The Ranchero Target Use Plan provides a $65 bill credit if your monthly consumption is higher than 999 kWh. However, if your consumption surpasses 1,500 kWh, the credit is reduced to $30. This plan is cost-effective if your monthly usage remains between 1,000 kWh and 1,500 kWh, but it applies higher rates if your usage falls outside that range. The Target Use Plan has a 12-month contract term and an ETF of $179.99.
All Ranchero Power plans have a base charge of $4.95 per month, regardless of your energy consumption, excluding the variable-rate plan. Additionally, you can upgrade any plan to 100% renewable energy for an additional $0.02 per kWh.
Ranchero Power also provides an optional feature called Early Cancellation Protection, where you can avoid the Early Termination Fee (ETF) for a monthly charge of $9.95. However, this feature increases your annual electricity costs by $119.40, while the ETF only applies if you end the plan early. If you only need an electricity plan for a few months, we recommend choosing a shorter contract term instead of paying for this feature. Also, keep in mind that you can switch any plan without paying the ETF when moving to another address.
Ranchero Power Rates and Plans in Houston
Ranchero Power electricity rates in the Greater Houston area range from 12.2 to 14.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) as of February 2025. This price range is lower than the Houston average rate of 17.0 cents per kWh and the Texas statewide average rate of 15.6 cents per kWh.
| Plan Name | Term Length | Plan Type | Rate (Cents per kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart & Fixed Rate 12 | 12 months | Fixed-rate | 13.7 |
| Smart & Fixed Rate 15 | 15 months | Fixed-rate | 13.0 |
| Smart & Fixed Rate 36 | 36 months | Fixed-rate | 13.2 |
| Smart & Fixed Rate 48 | 48 months | Fixed-rate | 13.0 |
| 12-Month Fixed w/Bill Credit | 12 months | Fixed-rate | 12.3 |
| No Contract Advantage | 1 months | Fixed-rate | 12.2 |
The rates above are based on 1,000 kWh per month in the CenterPoint service area. These rates are accurate as of March 4, 2025.
Ranchero Power Rates and Plans in Dallas
Ranchero Power rates in Dallas range from 12.3 to 14.5 cents per kWh as of February 2025. This price range is lower than both the Dallas-Fort Worth average rate of 19.6 cents per kWh and the Texas average rate of 15.6 cents per kWh.
| Plan Name | Term Length | Plan Type | Rate (Cents per kWh) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smart & Fixed Rate 12 | 12 months | Fixed-rate | 13.5 |
| Smart & Fixed Rate 15 | 15 months | Fixed-rate | 13.0 |
| Smart & Fixed Rate 36 | 36 months | Fixed-rate | 13.3 |
| Smart & Fixed Rate 48 | 48 months | Fixed-rate | 13.8 |
| 12-Month Fixed w/Bill Credit | 12 months | Fixed-rate | 13.3 |
| No Contract Advantage | 1 months | Fixed-rate | 12.8 |
The rates above are based on 1,000 kWh per month in the Oncro service area. These rates are accurate as of March 4, 2025.
Our Take on Ranchero Power
Ranchero Power scores 4.9 out of 5 stars in the Home Energy Club ranking methodology for Texas electricity providers. The company earns strong scores across the four performance areas we evaluate:
- Customer satisfaction: 4.9/5 (30% of score)
- Online experience: 4.8/5 (20% of score)
- Customer service: 4.9/5 (20% of score)
- Customer retention: 5/5 (30% of score)
Ranchero Power is a relatively new electricity provider with a smaller customer base than many competitors. However, online reviews and our survey results indicate a positive customer service record. The company has a simple and user-friendly website with clear information but also a narrow selection of energy plans with limited options and perks. The company also lacks solar buyback plans or EV charging rates, which are commonly available from other providers.
Ranchero Power offers below-average rates and predictable costs if you choose its fixed-rate plans. However, these benefits don’t apply to its variable-rate and bill credit plans. Ranchero plans only include 6% green energy by default, but you can upgrade any plan to 100% green energy for an additional fee of 2 cents per kWh. However, some competitors offer renewable energy options at no additional cost.
Deregulated Energy Review Standards (HEC)
Ranchero Power Pros and Cons
Like any electricity provider, Ranchero Power has both advantages and drawbacks, which we summarize below:
Pros
- Ranchero Power offers fixed-rate electricity plans with below-average rates.
- Electricity plans are available with contract terms ranging from six to 48 months.
- Ranchero Power has a simple and easy-to-use website with clear information.
- The company accepts customers with low credit scores.
Cons
- Ranchero Power has fewer plan options than most competitors, with limited perks.
- The company does not provide solar buyback plans or EV charging plans.
- Ranchero Power plans only contain 6% renewable energy by default.
Ranchero Power vs. Other Energy Companies
Here we compare Ranchero Power with two leading electricity providers in Texas: TXU Energy and Gexa Energy. When comparing only fixed-rate plans from the three companies, Ranchero Power offers the most affordable rates. Additionally, Ranchero Power has a simpler website design, which is easier to navigate. However, TXU and Gexa have a wider selection of energy plans with more features, including solar buyback programs.
| Factor | Ranchero Power | TXU Energy | Gexa Energy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Our overall rating(Out of 5) | 4.9 | 4.9 | 4.6 |
| Number of plans available | 8 | 11 | 25 |
| Top 12-month plan | Smart and Fixed Rate 12 | Solar Buyback Match 12 | Gexa 12 |
| Best feature | Affordable fixed-rate plans with 6- to 48-month contract terms. | High compensation rate for excess solar energy | 100% renewable energy in all plans |
Ranchero Power Overview
Southern Federal Power LLC, a retail electricity provider in Texas, owns Ranchero Power. Both companies offer similar plan options and rates, but Southern Federal focuses exclusively on fixed-rate plans, while Ranchero Power also offers variable-rate and bill credit plans. Here are some key facts about Ranchero Power:
- Customer Portal: https://rancheropower.com/
- Phone Number: 888-204-3202
- Year Founded: 2019
- Parent Company: Southern Federal Power LLC
- Headquarters: 5858 Westheimer Rd. Suite 707, Houston, Texas 77057
Where Is Ranchero Power Available?
Texas divides its deregulated electricity market into six service areas, each with a different “poles and wires” company in charge of the local power grid. Ranchero Power serves five of these six service territories:
- AEP Texas North: Abilene, San Angelo and many regions of northwestern Texas
- AEP Texas Central: Corpus Christi, McAllen and many regions of southern Texas
- CenterPoint Energy: Greater Houston and surrounding ZIP codes
- Oncor Electric Delivery: Dallas–Fort Worth Metroplex and surrounding ZIP codes
- Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP): Various service pockets around Dallas-Fort Worth, south of Houston, and southwest of Midland and Odessa
As of February 2025, Ranchero Power is not yet available in the Lubbock Power & Light (LP&L) service area. However, the 24-month plan from Southern Federal Power is already available in Lubbock ZIP codes.
Ranchero Power Reviews and Ratings
Ranchero Power has received mostly positive feedback on Google Reviews, with an average rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars from nearly 100 customer reviews. However, the company does not have a profile page, accreditation status or customer reviews at the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Its parent company, Southern Federal Power, has a BBB profile but also lacks accreditation and customer reviews.
What Customers Like
- Low electricity rates: Customers appreciate Ranchero Power’s affordable fixed-rate plans, which are usually below the market average.
- Responsive customer service: Many positive reviews praise the company for its customer service department. One 5-star review on Google describes its customer service agents as easy to reach and willing to answer questions.
- Efficient signup process: Ranchero Power also receives positive feedback for its simple enrollment process and helpful service agents.
What Customers Don’t Like
- Reports of high electricity bills: Some customers have reported higher power bills after switching to Ranchero Power. One customer mentioned a $672 bill for a three-person household but did not mention their specific plan.
- Photo requirement during sign-up: One customer who left a 1-star review decided to switch to another provider due to this policy.
- Inflexible with service disconnections: One negative review mentioned receiving a disconnection notice just two days after receiving a $1,000 power bill. However, the review does not specify if this bill covered several months.
Who Should Pick Ranchero Power?
Ranchero Power has a straightforward service offering: fixed-rate electricity plans with below-average rates and various contract lengths. Below are the customer types who are most likely to benefit from Ranchero Power plans:
1) Just Moved To Texas
With hundreds of energy providers, thousands of plans, and potentially confusing energy rates, selecting an electricity provider and plan can be a challenging task for newcomers to the deregulated energy market in Texas. Ranchero Power simplifies the selection process by offering mostly fixed-rate plans with straightforward pricing and contract terms ranging from six to 48 months. The company also features a user-friendly website, which is easy to navigate for first-time energy shoppers.
2) Budget-Conscious Customers
Even if you’re familiar with the different types of electricity plans in Texas, a fixed-rate plan offers predictability during its entire contract term. Your total power bill can still increase or decrease based on your monthly consumption, but your unit price per kilowatt-hour remains locked in.
Texas electricity rates tend to fluctuate with the seasons, rising in summer and winter due to the high power demand of air conditioners and space heaters. A fixed-rate plan from Ranchero Power protects you from these electricity price variations.
3) Long-Term Planners
Ranchero Power offers contract terms of 18, 24, 36 and 48 months — ideal for customers who prefer a single plan for several years. We recommend comparing the electricity rates available at different contract terms. Longer plans often have lower rates, but there are exceptions. For example, Ranchero Power’s 36-month plan has lower rates than its 48-month plan as of March 2025.
How To Get Started with Ranchero Power
Ranchero Power offers a user-friendly website with a single sign-up process:
- Input your ZIP code: The website will display the plans and rates available for your location.
- Compare electricity rates and contract lengths: Note that rates may vary depending on your ZIP code.
- Click on the “Enroll Now” button: Ranchero Power will ask for your contact information, address and service start date.
- Review additional features: For an extra fee per kilowatt-hour, you can upgrade your plan to 100% renewable energy.
- Confirm your information: Ranchero Power offers same-day electricity service if you complete your request before 2:00 p.m.
If your current electricity plan has not reached the end of its contract, you must usually pay a cancellation fee or ETF. However, you are exempt from this charge if you switch electricity providers when moving to another address.
Contacting Ranchero Power
Ranchero Power provides the following communication options:
- Set Up New Service: 888-204-3202
- Existing Customers: 888-204-3202
- Automated Phone Payment: 888-204-3202
- Email: hello@rancheropower.com
- Website: https://rancheropower.com/
Note that Ranchero Power has no direct control over the Texas power grid, operating exclusively as an electricity provider. To report power outages, downed power lines or other grid-related issues, you must contact the local transmission and distribution utility (TDU). If you’re not sure which TDU serves your area, you can find its name and contact details on your monthly electricity bill.
Moving or Transferring Service with Ranchero Power
The Ranchero Power website does not provide detailed instructions for transferring your service to another address. However, you can usually start this process with any electricity provider by contacting customer service. You will be asked to provide the following information:
- Your new service address
- Your move-in date
- Disconnection date for your current address
All Ranchero Power plans have an ETF, except for the variable-rate plan. However, when moving to another address, you have the opportunity to switch your energy plan without paying any cancellation fees.
Is Ranchero Power Right For You?
Ranchero Power is a viable option if you’re looking for affordable fixed rates, especially if you prefer longer contract terms like 24 or 36 months. However, keep in mind that all Ranchero Power plans include only 6% renewable energy by default. If you want 100% renewable energy, you’ll have to pay an additional charge per kilowatt-hour.
We don’t recommend Ranchero Power for customers with home solar systems because the company does not offer solar buyback plans. However, if you own an electric vehicle (EV), you can still benefit from Ranchero Power’s low rates, but the company does not offer dedicated EV charging plans.
Alternatives To Ranchero Power
Ranchero Power is known for its affordable fixed-rate plans with a variety of contract lengths between 6 and 48 months. The following providers also offer competitive fixed rates, although they have fewer contract length options:
You can compare other top light companies in Texas using the table below.
Retail Energy Provider | Our Rating | Customer Satisfaction Score | BBB Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
4.9 | 4.7 | A+ | |
4.9 | 5 | A+ | |
4.9 | 4.8 | NR | |
4.8 | 4.6 | A+ | |
4.8 | 5 | A+ | |
4.7 | 4.8 | A+ | |
4.7 | 4.5 | NR | |
4.6 | 4.2 | C | |
4.6 | 4.5 | NR | |
4.5 | 4 | NR |
Frequently Asked Questions about Ranchero Power
Is Ranchero Power legit?
Yes, Ranchero Power is a legitimate electricity provider with PUCT License #10264. You can find both Ranchero Power and its parent company, Southern Federal Power LLC, in the official PUCT directory.
What is the best energy plan in Texas?
The best electricity plan for your home depends on your energy consumption patterns and payment preferences. At Home Energy Club, we recommend fixed-rate plans as the best option for Texas homeowners since they offer straightforward pricing and predictable monthly bills. As of March 2025, Ranchero Power offers fixed-rate plans with contract terms ranging from six to 48 months. Ranchero also offers a month-to-month plan. However, we almost never recommend this variable-rate type plan.
What is the Smart and Fixed Rate Plan from Ranchero Power?
This electricity plan offers affordable fixed rates below the market average and is available in six contract lengths: 6, 12, 18, 24, 36 or 48 months. For an additional charge per kilowatt-hour, you can upgrade the Ranchero Smart and Fixed Rate Plan to 100% renewable energy.
Does Ranchero Power have a cancellation fee?
Yes, most Ranchero Power plans have an early termination fee (ETF) of around $179. The only exception is the Ranchero variable-rate plan, which has no cancellation fee.
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%)
