McKinney, Texas, has a deregulated energy market, which means you have the power to choose your energy provider.
Thanks to the competition in the market, deregulation helps keep prices low for consumers. The average energy rate in McKinney is approximately 14.0 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), according to hundreds of energy plans from the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) as of December 19, 2024.
Texas has competitive and low rates compared to other major areas. Based on data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), the average electricity rate in Texas is 14.96 cents per kWh, which is lower than the U.S. average of 16.83 cents per kWh.
Use this guide to compare low-rate electricity plans in McKinney and make a solid choice for your energy needs.
Best McKinney Electricity Rates
Below is a snapshot of some of the best electricity rates available in McKinney. We recommend these plans because they offer competitive rates per kWh and predictable monthly energy costs.
When comparing these electricity rates in McKinney, it’s essential to consider bill predictability, not just the advertised rate per kWh. A lower advertised rate might not always translate into lower monthly bills due to various factors, such as hidden fees or variable rates.
Provider | Plan Name | Est. Monthly Bill | Rate (¢/kWh) | % Renewable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Rhythm Energy | Simply Select 12 | $155 | 15.5 | 100% |
Frontier Utilities | Frontier Budget Saver 12 | $152 | 15.2 | 30% |
Tri-Eagle Energy | Simple Savings 12 | $148 | 14.8 | 9% |
4Change Energy | One Rate 12 | $157 | 15.7 | 9% |
Veteran Energy | Secure 12 | $157 | 15.7 | 7% |
Gexa Energy | Gexa Light Saver 12 | $160 | 16 | 100% |
Reliant Energy | Reliant Power On 24 Plan | $145 | 14.5 | 20% |
Payless Power | 12 Month - Prepaid | $182 | 18.2 | 26% |
TXU Energy | Simple Rate 12 | $182 | 18.2 | 9% |
Gexa Energy | Gexa Eco Saver Advantage 12 | $198 | 19.8 | 9% |
The rates in the above table are updated daily. We pull rates for the Oncor area in the ZIP code 75001. Monthly bill estimates are for 1,000 kWh usage.
Cheapest Electricity Rates in McKinney
Finding a cheaper electricity plan in Texas can help you save significantly on monthly bills. However, be careful of plans that advertise extremely low rates through bill credits — you’ll end up paying much more than advertised unless you consistently qualify for the bill credit every month.
For the best deal, look for simple fixed-rate plans and always review the electricity facts label (EFL) before signing up.
Provider | Plan Name | Est. Monthly Bill | Rate (¢/kWh) | % Renewable |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Budget Power | No Gimmicks 12 | $127 | 12.7 | 33% |
Varsity Energy LLC | Homerun 12 | $128 | 12.8 | 31% |
Frontier Utilities | Frontier Power Saver 12 | $128 | 12.8 | 30% |
Gexa Energy | Gexa Eco Choice 12 | $129 | 12.9 | 100% |
True Power | True Value 12 | $130 | 13.0 | 15% |
Southern Federal Power | SoFed Digital Saver Plus - 12 | $131 | 13.1 | 6% |
Ranchero Power | Smart & Fixed - 12 | $134 | 13.4 | 6% |
Chariot Energy | Bright Nights 12 | $135 | 13.5 | 100% |
BKV Energy | Daisy 12 | $135 | 13.5 | 29% |
Rhythm | Simply Choose 12 | $138 | 13.8 | 100% |
The rates in the above table are updated daily. We pull rates for the Oncor area in the ZIP code 75001. Monthly bill estimates are for 1,000 kWh usage.
Bill Predictability vs. Low-Rate Energy Plans in McKinney
When evaluating energy plans in McKinney, consider bill predictability, not just tempting low rates. Straightforward, fixed-rate plans lock in your rate per kWh, preventing sudden price spikes based on demand or unreliable discounts. Meanwhile, low-rate plans often lead to unpredictable energy bills because they rely on bill credits, which can cause confusion.
Bill credit plans provide an account credit if your usage falls within a set kWh range. Because most Texans experience changes in their total monthly electricity consumption, many won’t qualify for the bill credit every month. Your effective rate will drastically increase when you don’t earn the account credit.
If you prefer knowing exactly what you’ll pay each month, a fixed-rate plan might be more suitable for providing peace of mind and predictable budgeting than a low-rate plan.
How Do You Choose an Energy Plan in McKinney?
Whether you’re switching energy providers for your current address or picking an energy plan for your new home, follow the steps below to pick your McKinney energy plan.
Step 1: Identify Your Electricity Usage Needs
Identify your electricity usage needs by reading past energy bills or pulling your precise historic energy data from Smart Meter Texas. Energy plans are advertised at key usage levels, so knowing how much energy you consume per month will help you pick the right plan for how you use electricity. Factors such as the size of your home, the number of occupants and appliances will all directly impact your monthly usage.
Step 2: Review Plan Details and Rates
Review the details and rates of different energy plans. Types of plans in McKinney include fixed-rate, variable-rate, renewable energy plans and time-of-use plans. Fixed-rate plans offer a stable rate throughout the contract period, while variable-rate plans can fluctuate based on market conditions. Finally, consider contract length and shop for energy plans in your specific ZIP code.
Step 3: Switch to Your New Provider
You can switch online or via phone using our comparison platform to explore options and complete your enrollment. Once you’ve signed up, your new provider will coordinate with your current utility company to ensure a seamless transition without any service interruption.
What Are the Best Electricity Companies in McKinney?
The best McKinney electricity providers are Reliant Energy, Green Mountain Energy and TriEagle Energy, based on our review of dozens of energy providers. We don’t just rate these energy companies on price. We also evaluate a provider’s variety of plans, quality of customer support and brand reputation when reviewing electricity companies.
Looking for the cheapest energy rates? On average, Frontier Utilities, Gexa Energy and 4Change Energy advertise the cheapest rates.
Below are our top picks for McKinney electric companies based on our team’s review of dozens of light companies.
| Retail Energy Provider | Our Rating | PUCT Score | BBB Rating |
| Reliant Energy | 4.7 | 5 | NR |
| Green Mountain Energy | 4.7 | 4 | A+ |
| TriEagle Energy | 4.7 | 3 | A+ |
| Rhythm Energy | 4.5 | 2 | NR |
| TXU Energy | 4.4 | 5 | A+ |
| Champion Energy | 4.3 | 5 | A+ |
| Direct Energy | 4.3 | 4 | F |
| Cirro Energy | 4.2 | 2 | A+ |
Our ratings and the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) complaint scorecard ratings are out of 5 stars. This data is accurate as of December 2024.
What To Know When Moving To McKinney
With the long to-do list for your McKinney move, it may be easy to leave energy shopping until the end. But we encourage you to preempt the last-minute stress of getting your lights turned on by shopping for your McKinney energy plan at least a month before relocating. This will allow you the time needed to do your research and schedule your future start date early. Begin your energy shopping journey with the EFL.
Reading the Electricity Facts Label
The EFL provides essential energy plan information, including the base charge, energy charge and utility delivery fees. It also includes the average rate per kWh at preset usage levels, the rate structure and details on any renewable energy sources it uses.
Be Wary of Discounts and Promotions
We recommend straightforward fixed-rate energy plans with no deceptive rate structures or confusing discount offers. Many electricity providers in McKinney offer discounts and promotions that may include sign-up bonuses, referral credits or discounts for enrolling in automatic payment plans. Some offers leverage seasonal promotions or special rates for short-term contracts. While many discount rates can help you save money, offers such as bill credits or time-of-use discounts require active energy monitoring and even lifestyle changes to maximize your savings. Generally speaking, we encourage McKinney residents to avoid these plans.
Early Termination Fees
Providers charge early termination fees (ETFs) if you cancel your fixed-rate contract before its term ends. In McKinney, ETFs can vary significantly between providers and plans. Make sure to read the fine print of your contract to understand any potential penalties associated with early termination, especially if you anticipate needing flexibility in your choice of energy provider.
How Does Deregulated Energy Work in McKinney?
In McKinney, as in other deregulated areas of Texas, your local utility company is responsible for delivering electricity and maintaining the infrastructure. These TDUs deliver electricity to your home but don’t sell electricity directly to you. Your local utility manages the local power grid, maintaining lines and repairing power outages.
Electricity companies purchase energy from generators in wholesale auctions that the PUCT and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) facilitate. The goal is to ensure fair pricing for you, the end user. Utility companies don’t generate or sell electricity, but the companies do transmit that power to you. Finally, electricity providers bill you for energy usage.
Which TDU Serves McKinney?
Oncor, the largest TDU in Texas, services McKinney. Oncor’s base charges typically include a monthly fee of around $4.23 plus a delivery charge of about 5.29 cents per kWh. While you can choose your electricity provider, your local utility company is determined by where you live in Texas. Oncor is responsible for maintaining the power lines and ensuring your electricity gets to you safely and reliably.
Frequently Asked Questions About McKinney Electricity Rates
What electric company has the cheapest electricity per kWh in McKinney?
Gexa Energy, Frontier Utilities and 4Change Energy advertise some of the cheapest electricity rates in McKinney. They offer bill credit plans that may help residents save on their monthly bills. However, usage credit plans often cause bill surprise issues. You can find more predictable energy bills and competitive rates from TriEagle Energy and Rhythm Energy.
When is the best time to shop for a McKinney power plan?
Historically, the best time to shop for an electricity plan in McKinney is during the fall and spring. Known as the shoulder seasons, demand is typically lower during these months, causing rates to dip. Shopping at the beginning of the month can also yield better rates as providers often release new offers at that time.
How can I compare McKinney electricity rates?
To compare electricity rates in McKinney, you can use our comparison tool. This platform allows you to easily compare different plans, rates and providers, helping you find the best option for your needs without the hassle of contacting each company individually.
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 Texans cut through the complexity and find the best electricity plan for their needs, whether they’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 cost, bill predictability, customer satisfaction, brand trust, and plan features. Here’s how those core factors weighed into our ratings:
- Plan features (33%)
- Customer satisfaction and brand trust (27%)
- Plan rates and pricing (20%)
- Energy bill predictability (20%)
