Texas is a top state for residential solar panels. According to Google Project Sunroof, 90% of Texas buildings are solar-friendly. But what are the top cities for solar panels in Texas? And why are they the best cities to consider rooftop solar? Here’s our summary of the best cities for solar in Texas, based on third party data.
Texas
How to Get Help Paying Electric Bill
With rising electricity costs, you may need help with your power bill. If you need help with your electric bill in Texas, there are three basic options.
- Contact Your Electricity Provider: Your REP is the first point of contact if you need help paying your power bill in Texas. Working with them can give you a bill payment extension and keep you from being disconnected.
- Call 211 Utility Assistance: Texas 211 is a central clearing house of resources. The 211 operator may be able to match you to available aid programs.
- See if you qualify for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): This program provides bill payment assistance for those on SSI or that earn less than 150% of the Federal Income Poverty Guidelines.
Below we provide additional information on each option. Plus ideas for bill payment help for those who are not low income.
Why are Texas Electricity Prices So High?
In 2022, we had some of the highest electricity prices since deregulation. But now? Prices have come down by 30% or more vs. last year.
Here’s a recap on why prices are so high some years (and during the summer) and some strategies on how to get the best price for your home or business.
Texas Electricity Trends for 2022
Texas electricity rates in 2022 continue to show the greatest value with long terms plans. The other big trend? More green energy electricity plans as Texas moves generation to renewable energy.
(In a hurry? Jump right to our recommendations on the best residential Texas electricity plan for 2022.)
What the Best Thermostat Setting When on Vacation?
The plans have been made. The bags are packed. You deserve a vacation. But what are the best thermostat settings for vacation to keep your electricity bill low? In other words, when you’re in vacation mode, is there a vacation mode for your house?
Key Takeaways
The best approach for vacation thermostat settings is 10 degrees higher (summer) or lower (winter) than you normally set it when away from home. This lowers the amount of time your HVAC system is running while you are away.
- Summer vacation thermostat setting 80-85°
- Winter vacation thermostat setting: 50-60°
- If you have pets at home, consider their comfort as well when choosing a vacation thermostat setting.
- Never turn your thermostat completely off when on vacation, to avoid mold and mildew or freezing pipes.
If you’re planning your trip now, consider our tips for adjusting the thermostat settings to reduce energy, create a comfortable environment for your pets and lessen household damage risks.
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Texas Ancillary Services – What Are They? And Why Should You Care?
If you’re a business owner in Texas, you need to know that Ancillary Services could be passed through on your bill, depending on your contract language.
Ancillary Services are processes that help the ERCOT grid maintain a stable, efficient and safe operation. These processes and tools let ERCOT control voltage, frequency, flow and system recovery if there’s an emergency event. And new ancillary services charges in Texas could show up as line items in your business electricity bill.
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Developing a Sustainability Strategy for Your Small Business
A sustainability strategy for your small business can help you attract new employees and new clients, as well as contribute to a greener environment. And becoming a green business can have a big impact on your bottom line. Here’s how to develop a sustainability strategy for your business.
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Liberty Power Bankruptcy – What Now?
If Liberty Power supplies your residential or commercial power, you may need to shop for a new electricity contract soon.
Liberty Power declared bankruptcy on April 21, 2021. While some Liberty Power customers were acquired by NRG, many others are being returned to their utility or to the Provider of Last Resort as of the most recent court decisions in November 2021.
What you need to do depends on what type of customer you are (residential or commercial) and what state you are in. Here’s what you need to know if you’re a Liberty Power customer, and what to do next.
How to Compare Plans to find the Best Electricity Rates in Texas
Looking for the best electricity rates in Texas? Use our guide to find the best power prices for you, what to look for in an electricity plan and step by step process to compare electricity plans.
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Understanding the Sales Tax Exemption in Texas for Cutting Energy Costs
You’ve heard about how Texas supports business growth. Among the many measures in place, certain businesses (as well as select residential communities) don’t have to pay the sales tax on their electricity bill. And any business that uses electricity in its production activities could qualify.
In this article, we’ll help you understand how to qualify for Texas’s sales tax exemption for commercial electricity.
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