Killeen residents have the power to choose their electricity provider thanks to Texas energy deregulation. Unlike many parts of the country where a single utility company controls the market, Killeen homeowners can select from dozens of providers offering hundreds of plans with different rates and features.
Electricity rates in Killeen start as low as 10.8 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh) and exceed 23 cents per kWh. This wide price range makes exercising your freedom of choice especially important. Whether you’re a military family stationed at Fort Hood, now called Fort Cavazos, or a long-timer resident of the Killeen area, you may benefit from deregulated energy if you’re proactive in your energy search.
Finding the best electricity provider in Killeen isn’t just about saving money, though that’s undoubtedly important. It’s also about finding a reliable customer service that meets your needs, whether you’re looking for predictable billing, renewable energy options or flexible contract terms that accommodate military deployment schedules.
With summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F and winter lows approaching freezing, choosing the right plan can help manage those inevitable seasonal usage spikes.
Current Killeen Electricity Rates
In the Killeen electricity market, the difference between an excellent rate and a merely advertised “cheap” rate often comes from transparency and stability. The best electricity companies in Killeen offer straightforward plans without hidden fees or complex tiered structures that can lead to billing surprises.
As of early 2025, Killeen residents can enjoy competitive fixed rates that offer price protection during the upcoming summer, when air conditioning use is expected to soar.
When comparing rates, it’s essential to look beyond promotional offers with temporary bill credits, which provide discounts when your usage hits a specific threshold (often 1,000 kWh). These plans can sometimes be more expensive overall, despite their attractive advertised rates.
Similarly, tiered-rate plans that charge different prices depending on your monthly usage can be risky if your consumption varies seasonally, as it does for most Killeen households due to the extreme summer heat.
Provider | Plan name | Term | Rate (¢/kWh) |
---|---|---|---|
Frontier Utilities |
Frontier Saver Plus 12 |
12 months |
10.9 |
Express Energy |
Flash 12 |
12 months |
11.0 |
Gexa Energy |
Gexa Eco Saver Plus 12 |
12 months |
11.0 |
Express Energy |
Flash 24 |
24 months |
11.0 |
4Change Energy |
Maxx Saver Select 24 |
24 months |
11.0 |
4Change Energy |
Maxx Saver Select 12 |
12 months |
11.0 |
Gexa Energy |
Gexa Eco Saver Plus 24 |
24 months |
11.0 |
Frontier Utilities |
Frontier Saver Plus 24 |
24 months |
11.0 |
Cirro Energy |
Simple Bill Credit 24 |
24 months |
11.4 |
Cirro Energy |
Simple Bill Credit 12 |
12 months |
11.4 |
Tri-Eagle Energy |
Simple Savings 12 |
12 months |
15.8 |
Frontier Utilities |
Frontier Budget Saver 12 |
12 months |
16.3 |
Veteran Energy |
Secure 12 |
12 months |
16.3 |
4Change Energy |
One Rate 24 |
24 months |
16.7 |
4Change Energy |
One Rate 12 |
12 months |
16.7 |
Gexa Energy |
Gexa Light Saver 12 |
12 months |
17.2 |
Frontier Utilities |
Platinum 12+ |
12 months |
18.4 |
TXU Energy |
Simple Rate 12 |
12 months |
19.3 |
Payless Power |
12 Month – Prepaid |
12 months |
19.3 |
Gexa Energy |
Gexa Eco Saver Advantage 12 |
12 months |
21.2 |
Rates are updated daily, based on the Oncor service area for the ZIP code 75001. The average rates apply to a home with a monthly usage of 1,000 kWh.
Average Electricity Rates in Killeen
The average energy rate in Killeen is closely aligned with the statewide average, which is 15.30 cents per kWh, according to the latest data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). This is more favorable than the national average of approximately 17.11 cents per kWh.
For perspective, this translates to typical monthly electricity bills of about $122 to $140 for smaller apartments or homes (using 800 to 900 kWh), $183 to $214 for medium-sized homes (using 1,200 to 1,400 kWh), and $300-plus for larger homes (using 2,000-plus kWh).
Killeen’s usage patterns show significant seasonal variation, with electric bills often doubling in July and August compared to milder months like April and October due to air conditioning demands in the Central Texas heat.
What Makes a Good Rate in Killeen?
For Killeen residents in 2025, a competitive electricity rate is available for fixed-rate plans ranging from 14 to 17 cents per kWh or below, based on a 1,000 kWh usage level. The best rates typically become available in early spring before the peak summer demand drives prices higher.
Several factors influence electricity rates in Killeen, including its position within the Oncor transmission system, natural gas prices (which fuel many power plants in Texas), and regional demand patterns. Fort Hood’s massive energy requirements also impact the local grid, though the base has been implementing solar and other renewable projects to reduce its dependency on conventional power sources.
Be cautious of electricity plans in Killeen with rates that appear significantly lower than others on the market, as these often have complex pricing structures. For example, some bill credit plans advertise rates as low as 10 to 11 cents per kWh. However, the cheap rate only applies when your usage meets the required bill credit threshold. You may enjoy low rates in summer when usage tends to be high, while paying very high rates if your usage falls below the required threshold in spring and winter, when mild weather leads to low demand.
Always check the electricity facts label (EFL) for the “average price per kWh” at multiple usage levels to understand the actual cost.
Top Recommended Electricity Companies in Killeen
Killeen’s electricity market includes dozens of retail providers, all operating on the infrastructure maintained by Oncor Electric Delivery, the transmission and distribution utility (TDU) for the region. While Oncor handles the power lines, meters, and outage repairs, retail electricity providers compete to sell you power, handle billing and provide customer service.
According to the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), Killeen residents can choose from approximately 40-plus retail providers offering hundreds of plan options.
Several electricity companies in Killeen stand out for their customer satisfaction ratings and competitive pricing. Gexa Energy, 4Change Energy and Frontier Utilities generally advertise the cheapest rates. Meanwhile, Reliant Energy and TXU Energy offer excellent customer service and a wide range of plan types, but with a premium price tag to match. Green Mountain Energy is a top choice for renewable energy.
Other companies specialize in no-deposit energy, while many major light companies in Killeen offer same-day electricity.
Provider | Rating (out of 5) | Top plan | Rate (Cents per kWh) |
---|---|---|---|
Green Mountain Energy | 4.9 | Pollution Free e-Plus 12 | 17.2 |
Reliant Energy | 4.9 | Reliant Secure Advantage 12 | 18.8 |
TXU Energy | 4.9 | Simple Rate 12 | 19.2 |
TriEagle Energy | 4.8 | Simple Savings 12 | 15.8 |
Express Energy | 4.8 | Express 12 | 16.7 |
4Change Energy | 4.7 | One Rate 12 | 16.7 |
Rates are accurate for the 76540 ZIP code as of May 2025 for a home using 1,000 kWh per month.
Understanding Killeen’s Deregulated Energy Market
Energy deregulation came to Killeen and most of Texas in 2002 after the state legislature passed Senate Bill 7 in 1999. This landmark legislation broke up energy monopolies and created a competitive retail electricity market where Texans could choose their provider rather than being locked into service with a single utility company.
Killeen falls within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) territory, which manages about 90% of the state’s electric load. ERCOT oversees the entire deregulated power grid, ensuring reliability and facilitating the wholesale electricity market. Oncor Electric Delivery, the utility company in the Dallas and Fort Worth areas, owns and maintains the physical infrastructure in the Killeen area. Regardless of which light company you choose, Oncor delivers electricity to your Killeen home or business.
The competitive market has generally benefited Killeen residents through lower rates than many regulated markets in the U.S. However, this system was tested during the February 2021 winter storm, when extended freezing temperatures caused widespread power outages across Texas. Since then, ERCOT and providers serving Killeen have implemented weatherization improvements and increased reserve capacity requirements to better prepare for extreme weather events.
For military families at Fort Cavazos, Killeen’s deregulated market offers particular advantages, including finding plans with no deposit requirements, no long-term contract or special military provisions that allow penalty-free cancellation with military orders.
How To Choose the Right Electricity Plan
Choosing the right electricity plan in Killeen requires looking beyond the advertised rate. You’ll want to consider your household’s usage patterns to find a plan that saves you money and meets your requirements.
- Understand your usage pattern: Analyze your past electricity bills to determine your monthly usage. Killeen homes often use 1,000 to 2,000 kWh per month, with summer consumption sometimes doubling fall and spring usage. Given seasonal usage spikes, fixed-rate plans often make the most sense for most Killeen residents.
- Consider your living situation: If you’re a military family at Fort Cavazos, you may want to seek providers offering military-friendly plans with flexible terms, deployment clauses or no-deposit options. Several Killeen providers have designed plans specifically for the military community, with penalty-free early termination with orders and special considerations for deployment.
- Examine the EFL: The EFL shows the actual cost of electricity at various usage levels. Pay special attention to the “average price per kWh” at 500, 1,000 and 2,000 kWh to understand how the plan performs at different usage levels.
- Watch for hidden fees: Look for charges beyond the energy rate, such as monthly base charges, minimum usage fees or early termination fees (ETFs). Some Killeen providers advertise low rates but include fees that significantly increase your bill, particularly if you use less electricity than expected.
- Check the contract length: Consider how long you’ll be in Killeen when choosing contract length. Some three-month contracts offer discounts, but be wary of contracts that end in summer when rates spike. Meanwhile, some long-term contracts, such as 24 and 36 months, offer slight discounts and provide long-term price protection. Other plans offer month-to-month contracts, but with the risk of very high rates.
- Review the company’s reputation: Check customer reviews and complaint data from the PUCT before signing up with a provider. Companies with poor service records may offer temptingly low rates that aren’t worth the headaches of billing errors, poor communication or complex cancellation processes.
Types of Electricity Plans
- Fixed-rate plans: Your energy charge stays the same for your entire contract, but you may owe an ETF if you cancel early.
- Green energy plans: Your electricity will be powered by clean energy sources, such as wind or solar power, while you secure a competitive energy rate.
- No-deposit plans: You won’t pay a large upfront deposit or endure a credit check, but you may pay higher rates.
- Variable-rate plans: Avoid a long-term contract, but your rates will change monthly based on market conditions.
- Bill credit plans: Earn an account credit if your usage meets strict requirements, but pay nearly double if your usage strays above or below the kilowatt-hour threshold.
- Time-of-use plans: Pay discounted rates during off-peak hours and very high rates during peak hours.
Business Electricity Rates in Killeen
Commercial electricity options in Killeen differ significantly from residential plans, with businesses typically receiving more customized pricing based on their usage patterns and demand profiles.
- The average commercial energy rate in Texas is 9.0 cents per kWh, while the average residential energy rate is 15.30 cents per kWh.
- Large operations can often negotiate low rates based on higher consumption volumes and more predictable usage patterns.
- Killeen businesses benefit from several specialized programs, including the city’s Small Business Energy Efficiency Program, which provides rebates for efficiency upgrades.
Additionally, businesses supporting Fort Cavazos operations may qualify for special rates through military-affiliated commercial pricing providers, recognizing the vital economic relationship between the base and local businesses in Killeen’s economy.
Making the Switch: How To Change Providers
The best time to switch electricity providers in Killeen is typically during spring or fall, when moderate temperatures result in lower energy usage. During these shoulder seasons, providers often offer their most competitive rates to attract customers before the high-demand summer or winter periods. Switching outside peak seasons also means your first bill with the new provider won’t coincide with the year’s highest usage.
Before switching, review your current contract to check for ETFs, ranging from $150 to $300, depending on your provider and how much time remains on your contract. If you’re a military member with deployment orders, many providers will waive these fees upon proof of military orders—a valuable benefit for Fort Cavazos families.
To minimize switching costs, time your move to coincide with your contract’s expiration date. Most Killeen providers will send renewal notices 30 to 60 days before your contract ends, providing an ideal opportunity to shop around without penalty.
If you must switch mid-contract, calculate whether the savings from a new plan will offset any termination fees from your current provider.
Steps To Switch Providers
- Compare available plans: Enter your ZIP code on provider websites or a comparison marketplace, like our partners at Home Energy Club, to see current offers for your Killeen neighborhood. Look past the advertised rate on the EFL.
- Filter your options: Filter your options by plan type, provider, and home size ot make sure you find the best plan for your needs.
- Select your new plan: Once you’ve identified the best plan, you can sign up online or over the phone. You’ll need to provide your service address, personal information and service start date. Online or over the phone, the process typically takes just five minutes.
Keep an eye out for your final bill from your previous provider. If you have autopay, this won’t be an issue.
Killeen Power Infrastructure and Outages
Killeen’s electricity is delivered through infrastructure owned and maintained by Oncor Electric Delivery, which serves approximately millions of customers across Texas. As the area’s utility, Oncor is responsible for maintaining power lines, reading meters and responding to outages regardless of which retail provider you choose for your electricity service.
You should contact Oncor directly when power outages occur in Killeen, whether from summer thunderstorms or winter ice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What company has the cheapest electricity rates in Killeen?
The provider with the cheapest electricity rates in Killeen changes regularly based on market conditions and promotional offers. However, Frontier Utilities, 4Change Energy and Gexa Energy often advertise the lowest rates with bill credit plans. For more predictable monthly energy costs, TriEagle Energy and Rhythm Energy provide straightforward fixed-rate plans.
How much does electricity typically cost in Killeen?
The average Killeen household consuming 1,000 kWh per month can expect to pay between $130 and $150 for electricity, though this varies significantly based on your provider, plan type, and season. Summer bills often increase substantially due to air conditioning needs in the Central Texas heat, with some households seeing bills double during July and August.
What’s the best electricity company in Killeen for homeowners?
The best provider depends on your specific needs, but Gexa Energy, Reliant Energy and TXU Energy consistently receive high ratings from Killeen customers. Military families often prefer providers offering plans with deployment clauses, while environmentally conscious consumers might choose Green Mountain Energy for its 100% renewable options.
When is the best time to switch electricity providers?
The ideal time to switch providers in Killeen is during spring or fall, when energy usage is typically low and providers offer competitive rates. Switching near the end of your current contract helps avoid ETFs, which can range from $9 to $300, depending on your provider. We recommend signing up for a 12, 24 or 36-month contract in either the spring or the fall, so your contract renewal date lines up with the season when energy prices tend to dip.
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.