Founded in 1997, Green Mountain Energy was the first electricity provider to offer 100% renewable energy plans in Texas. The company provides fixed-rate, variable-rate and time-of-use electricity plans powered entirely by wind or solar energy. Homeowners with solar panels can also benefit from Green Mountain’s solar buyback plans, which have no monthly export limits.
While Green Mountain has established itself as a leader in renewable energy, it’s also known for charging high rates. Most of its energy plans cost more per kilowatt-hour (kWh) than the statewide average of 15.30 cents per kWh, according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
Green Mountain began serving Texas customers in 2002, shortly after the state deregulated its electricity market. In 2010, the company was acquired by NRG Energy, one of the largest energy corporations in the U.S.. NRG also owns Reliant Energy and Discount Power.
Green Mountain is one of our top-rated electricity providers, scoring 4.9 out of 5 stars in our review.
Our Take on Green Mountain Energy
Green Mountain Energy is a great option if you’re looking to reduce your carbon footprint. All its electricity plans include 100% wind or 100% solar energy by default, while the average green energy content across Texas is 33%. The company offers a wide variety of plan types, all with the benefit of clean energy for your home:
- Fixed-rate plans
- Free nights plans
- Free weekends plans
- Solar buyback plans
- Variable-rate plans
Green Mountain’s solar buyback plans let you export excess energy to the grid with no monthly limit. If your solar production exceeds your electricity usage during a billing period, the unused credit rolls over to the next month. This is an excellent feature for homes with solar panel systems that generate surplus power. The company also offers a time-of-use plan with a discount of 2 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., useful for homes that consume most of their electricity at night.
If you’re looking for price stability, Green Mountain provides fixed-rate plans with contract terms of 12, 18 or 24 months. However, these plans range from around 15.9 to 19.0 cents per kWh, while some competitors offer rates below 15.0 cents per kWh. The company’s free nights and free weekends plans may be viable for homes that can shift their usage towards these promotional periods, but keep in mind that rates during paid hours range from 25.0 to 35.0 cents per kWh.
Pros and Cons
Here are Green Mountain Energy’s strongest and weakest points:
Pros
- All plans include 100% green energy
- Solar buyback plans with rollover credits and no monthly export limit
- No monthly base charge in most electricity plans
- Mobile app with smart energy usage tracking
- Strong customer satisfaction
Cons
- Higher rates than many competitors, especially for fixed-rate plans
- Free nights and free weekends plans have very high rates during paid hours
- Early termination fees (ETF) are fixed regardless of the months left in your contract
Green Mountain Energy Plans
Green Mountain Energy offers 10 plans as of June 2025. Most plans have no base charges, and you receive 100% wind or 100% solar energy, depending on your choice.
| Plan | Type | Term (Months) | Average Rate (Cents per kWh) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pollution Free e-Plus 12 | Fixed rate | 12 | 17.2 | Cancellation fee: $150 or $295 based on plan length No base charge 100% wind energy |
| Pollution Free e-Plus 24 | Fixed rate | 24 | 16.8 | Cancellation fee: $150 or $295 based on plan length No base charge 100% wind energy |
| Pollution Free e-Plus | Variable rate | Month-to-month | 19.1 | No cancellation fee or base charge 100% wind energy |
| Pollution Free Weekend Warrior | Time of use | 12 | 25.9 (weekdays) 0 (weekends) | Cancellation fee: $150 No base charge Free electricity from 8:00 p.m. Friday to 12:00 a.m. Monday 100% wind energy |
| Pollution Free All Nighter 12 | Time of use | 12 | 31.5 (daytime) 0 (nighttime) | Cancellation fee: $150 or $295 based on plan length No base charge Free electricity from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. 100% wind energy |
| Pollution Free All Nighter 24 | Time of use | 24 | 31.5 (daytime) 0 (nighttime) | Cancellation fee: $150 or $295 based on plan length No base charge Free electricity from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. 100% wind energy |
| Go Local Solar 18 | Fixed rate | 18 | 17.7 | Cancellation fee: $180 No base charge 100% solar energy |
| Solar All Nighter 12 | Fixed rate | 12 | 18.7 | Cancellation fee: $150 No base charge 2 cents per kWh discount from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. 100% solar energy |
| Renewable Rewards Solar Max | Solar buyback | 12 | 17.5 | Cancellation fee: $150 Base charge: $14.95 Solar buyback at real-time wholesale price 100% solar energy |
| Renewable Rewards Solar Credit | Solar buyback | 12 | 16.6 | Cancellation fee: $150 Base charge: $9.95 Solar buyback at 3.9 cents per kWh 100% solar energy |
Green Energy Options
Green Mountain Energy offers 100% renewable energy as a standard feature for all its customers. Depending on the specific plan you choose, this can be solar or wind energy. However, the company also has higher rates than some competitors with green energy options. For example, Rhythm Energy and Energy Texas both offer 100% renewable plans with fixed rates below 15.0 cents per kWh as of June 2025.
The company also manages the Sun Club program, which funds sustainability projects for nonprofit organizations. Since 2002, Sun Club has donated over $14 million to 164 projects across six states: Texas, Pennsylvania, New York, Oregon, Illinois and Massachusetts.
Green Mountain Energy Plan and Pricing Structure
Green Mountain uses four types of pricing structures for its electricity plans:
- Fixed rates
- Fixed rates with solar buyback
- Variable rates
- Time-of-use rates
Whenever you compare Green Mountain Energy plans, the rates displayed also include delivery fees from the utility company in your ZIP code, also known as the “poles and wires” company. For example, Oncor is the utility company in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex, while CenterPoint Energy is the utility for the Greater Houston area.
Below, we compare rates at different usage levels for the 12-month Pollution Free e-Plus plan from Green Mountain Energy.
| Usage | Rate (Cents per kWh) | Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|
| 500 kWh | 17.7 | $88.00 |
| 1,000 kWh | 17.2 | $171.00 |
| 2,000 kWh | 16.9 | $338.00 |
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) requires all electricity providers to publish an electricity facts label (EFL) for every plan they offer. This document breaks down key pricing details, including the energy rate, base fees, contract length and any additional charges. Reviewing the EFL helps you understand exactly how a plan is structured, so you can avoid unexpected costs and choose the best fit for your home.
Below is the EFL for the Green Mountain Energy Pollution Free e-Plus 12 plan in the Greater Houston area.
Green Mountain Energy’s Customer Experience
In February 2025, we surveyed 1,600 residential energy users across Texas, asking them to rate their electricity providers across four performance areas. Green Mountain Energy earned an outstanding score of 4.9 out of 5 stars, broken down as follows:
| Category | Score (Out of 5) | Average of All Providers in Our Review (Out of 5) |
|---|---|---|
| Customer Satisfaction (30%) | 5.0 | 4.4 |
| Customer Retention (30%) | 5.0 | 4.5 |
| Online Experience (20%) | 4.8 | 4.4 |
| Customer Service (20%) | 5.0 | 4.6 |
Founded in 1997 and operating in Texas since 2002, Green Mountain Energy has nearly three decades of experience with renewable electricity. According to our survey, 70% of customers would recommend Green Mountain to their family and friends, and 65% believe they’re paying a fair electricity rate. When asked what they value most about the company, 65% of respondents mentioned its renewable energy options, and 60% highlighted its competitive pricing.
Green Mountain Energy Customer Reviews
As of June 2025, Green Mountain Energy has a 3.9 out of 5-star rating on Google Reviews, based on over 3,000 customer reviews. The company has a much lower score of 1.32 out of 5 stars at the Better Business Bureau (BBB), based on only 41 reviews. Even top-rated electricity providers often receive low BBB ratings, since customers tend to use the platform mostly for complaints, while positive feedback usually goes to Google Reviews.
In positive reviews, customers often praise Green Mountain for its 100% renewable plans and its mobile app, which helps them track their daily usage. Here’s an example:
“So far so good. I’ve used GME for several years now. They offer a great app that is easy to navigate, I get usage emails that help me make better energy use choices, and I can access the same data on the app.So far, I like the rates and have only had two customer service interactions and they were both positive. I’ve got the Pollution Free All Nighter 24 plan, free electricity from 8pm to 6am. It’s great. I pay $0.14per kWh. I’d recommend to a friend.” said James L.
“Green Mountain is a great energy company! We have never had any problems with them! They are always there when we need them! I’m one satisfied customer. Thank you!,” said Sue A.
However, some customers have posted negative reviews that mention higher electricity costs after switching to Green Mountain, or slow response times when trying to cancel or switch plans. For example:
“I signed up for this at a farmer’s market. Got sidelined, and agreed to join with the understanding that I could cancel at any time. Well, I’ve tried to cancel three times, and no one will return my emails. So I’m not thrilled,” said Forest K.
Green Mountain Energy Online Experience
Green Mountain offers an informative and easy-to-navigate website. The plan comparison page sometimes has a slow loading time, but the overall online experience is positive. As a customer, you can also access an account management portal and a user-friendly mobile app that keeps track of your daily usage.
- Mobile app: Yes
- Online bill pay: Yes
- Usage tracking: Yes
- Paperless billing: Yes
- Support hours: Monday to Sunday, 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. CT
- Contact methods: Phone, email, live chat
Green Mountain Energy vs. Competitors
Below, we compare Green Mountain Energy with TXU Energy and Gexa Energy, two major electricity providers that also offer solar buyback plans and 100% renewable options in Texas.
Green Mountain and Gexa offer fixed-rate plans with similar rates, while TXU tends to be more expensive. However, TXU offers the highest solar buyback rates among the three. Depending on the plan, Green Mountain pays either the real-time market rate or a fixed rate of 3.9 cents per kWh for excess solar energy, while Gexa pays only 3.0 cents per kWh. TXU offers a slightly higher rate of 5.0 cents per kWh.
With respect to renewable options, Green Mountain and Gexa both include 100% green energy by default in all their plans. On the other hand, TXU offers a mix of traditional plans and green energy plans.
| Provider | Overall Rating (Out of 5) | Recommended Plan | Plan Features | Energy Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Green Mountain Energy | 4.9 | Renewable Rewards Solar Credit 12 | 100% renewable $9.95 per month base charge | 16.6 cents (consumption) 3.9 cents (solar buyback) |
| Gexa Energy | 4.6 | Solar Export 12 | 100% renewable $19.95 per month base charge | 15.2 cents (consumption) 3.0 cents (solar buyback) |
| TXU Energy | 4.9 | Solar Buyback Saver 12 | 100% renewable $14.95 per month base charge | 17.7 cents (consumption) 5.0 cents (solar buyback) |
Is Green Mountain Energy Right for You?
We recommend Green Mountain Energy if you’re looking for an electricity provider that offers 100% renewable energy and strong customer satisfaction. The company also offers solar buyback plans, which sometimes include retail-rate compensation for excess solar energy. However, as of June 2025, the solar buyback plans available only offer reduced compensation, either at the market rate or a reduced fixed rate. Additionally, Green Mountain tends to charge higher electricity rates than other providers with similar offerings.
Consider Green Mountain Energy if:
- You prioritize plans with 100% renewable energy
- You’re looking for a mobile app that helps you track daily energy usage
- You tend to use most of your electricity between 8:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m.
Consider alternatives if:
- You’re looking for the lowest electricity rates on the market
- You prioritize plans with flexible cancellation fees
- You want a plan with free electric vehicle (EV) charging hours
How To Sign Up for Green Mountain Energy
Green Mountain Energy offers a simple enrollment process that you can complete online in just a few minutes. Start by entering your ZIP code to view the plans available in your area. Once you select a plan, click the “Sign Up” button to bring up the online enrollment form. You’ll be asked for your contact details, service address, preferred start date and payment information.
For an easier comparison of Green Mountain Energy with other top-rated providers, we recommend using Home Energy Club, our trusted partner, for electricity plan comparisons and exclusive discounts.
What You’ll Need
- Valid photo ID
- Social Security Number or Tax ID
- Service address with ZIP code
- Payment information (credit card, debit card or bank account)
- Email address for account setup and billing
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Green Mountain Energy require a deposit?
Like most electricity providers in Texas, Green Mountain usually performs a soft credit check on new customers to determine if a security deposit is necessary. Customers with strong credit may be exempt, but the company doesn’t publish a specific policy or minimum credit score for this benefit. Check out no-deposit light companies to avoid a credit check or security deposit.
What is Green Mountain Energy’s cancellation policy?
Green Mountain levies fixed early termination fees (ETFs) for most of its plans, charging $150 for 12-month plans, $180 for 18-month plans, and $295 for 24-month plans. However, if you switch plans while moving and show proof of your new address, Texas law exempts you from paying any cancellation fees.
How does Green Mountain Energy handle bill credits?
Green Mountain offers bill credits through its solar buyback plans. You can export solar excess energy to the grid with no monthly limit, and unused credits roll over to the billing period.
Does Green Mountain Energy offer renewable energy plans?
Yes, all its plans include 100% renewable energy by default, which can be wind or solar energy, depending on the specific plan.
What areas does Green Mountain Energy serve?
Green Mountain covers the service areas of all six utility companies in the Texas deregulated electricity market: Oncor, CenterPoint Energy, AEP Texas North, AEP Texas Central, Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP) and Lubbock Power and Light (LP&L). Keep in mind that the plans available and their rates can vary depending on your ZIP code.
How do I contact Green Mountain Energy’s customer service?
To set up service with Green Mountain, you can call 866-301-3120. If you’re already a customer, you can call 866-785-4668. You can also reach out via email or live chat through the company’s customer service page.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Reviews Team supports our energy provider ratings and recommendations with a transparent, research-backed provider review methodology. Our process includes surveying electricity customers in deregulated markets like Texas, analyzing customer review trends, conducting mystery shopping, and consulting with energy experts. Each provider is scored based on performance in customer satisfaction, loyalty, digital experience, and service quality to produce a final rating on a 5-point scale.