Energy Rates in Fort Worth: What Residents Need to Know in 2024

Fort Worth, Texas, is a city known for its vibrant culture, booming economy, and sweltering summers. But for many residents and businesses, one topic dominates conversations year-round: energy rates. With Texas’ unique deregulated energy market, fluctuating demand, and extreme weather, understanding Fort Worth’s electricity costs can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the factors shaping energy rates in Fort Worth, how they compare to state and national averages, and actionable tips to save money on your power bill.

The Texas Energy Market: A Quick Primer

Texas operates on a deregulated energy market, meaning most residents (including those in Fort Worth) can choose their electricity provider from a competitive pool of Retail Electric Providers (REPs). This system aims to drive down prices through competition, but it also requires consumers to shop carefully for plans tailored to their needs.

Fort Worth falls within the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) grid, which manages 90% of the state’s power load. While ERCOT’s independence from federal regulation allows flexibility, it has also faced scrutiny after grid vulnerabilities were exposed during Winter Storm Uri in 2021. These factors indirectly influence Fort Worth’s energy rates and reliability.

Current Energy Rates in Fort Worth

As of mid-2024, the average electricity rate in Fort Worth is 13.5–15.5 cents per kilowatt-hour (kWh), slightly above the Texas state average of 13.2 cents/kWh but below the national average of 15.7 cents/kWh. However, rates vary widely depending on:

1. Plan Type: Fixed-rate plans lock in a price per kWh for 12–36 months, while variable-rate plans fluctuate with market conditions.

2. Usage Tiers: Many providers offer lower rates if you stay within a specific consumption range (e.g., 1,000 kWh/month).

3. Renewable Options: Green energy plans, powered by wind or solar, may cost 1–3 cents more per kWh.

For context, a Fort Worth household using 1,200 kWh/month would pay roughly $160–$190 monthly before fees or credits.

Factors Driving Fort Worth’s Energy Costs

1. Natural Gas Prices

Texas generates 45% of its electricity from natural gas. When global demand or production disruptions (like the Ukraine war) drive up gas prices, Texans feel the pinch. In 2022, natural gas prices spiked 60%, contributing to higher electricity rates statewide.

2. Seasonal Demand

Fort Worth’s summers are brutal, with temperatures often exceeding 100°F. Air conditioning accounts for 50–60% of home energy use during peak months (June–September), straining the grid and raising rates. Winter heating costs, though lower, can also spike during cold snaps.

3. Infrastructure and Grid Maintenance

After Winter Storm Uri caused statewide blackouts, Texas lawmakers mandated weatherization upgrades for power plants and infrastructure. These costs, along with investments in renewable energy projects, are partially passed to consumers through rate adjustments.

4. Renewable Energy Growth

Texas leads the U.S. in wind energy and ranks second in solar capacity. While renewables can stabilize long-term costs, initial investments and grid integration (e.g., battery storage) may cause short-term rate fluctuations.

How Fort Worth Rates Compare to Nearby Cities

Fort Worth’s energy costs are competitive within Texas but vary regionally:

Top Energy Providers in Fort Worth

Dozens of REPs operate in Fort Worth, but these five are consistently highly rated:

1. TXU Energy: Known for flexible plans and rewards programs. Rates: 14.2–16.0 cents/kWh.

2. Reliant Energy: Offers solar buyback plans and smart home integrations. Rates: 13.8–15.5 cents/kWh.

3. Direct Energy: Competitive fixed-rate plans and no-deposit options. Rates: 13.5–14.8 cents/kWh.

4. 4Change Energy: Donates profits to charity. Rates: 13.0–14.5 cents/kWh.

5. Green Mountain Energy: 100% renewable plans. Rates: 14.5–16.2 cents/kWh.

Tip: Use the state’s Power to Choose website to compare plans, but read the fine print for hidden fees.

5 Ways to Lower Your Energy Bill in Fort Worth

1. Lock In a Fixed-Rate Plan

With energy prices prone to summer spikes, fixed-rate plans offer budget predictability. Snag a 12–24-month contract during fall or spring when demand is low.

2. Leverage Time-of-Use Plans

Some providers offer free nights or weekends. If you can shift laundry or charging to off-peak hours (e.g., after 8 PM), you’ll save 10–20%.

3. Invest in Energy Efficiency

• HVAC Maintenance: Replace filters monthly and schedule annual tune-ups.

• Smart Thermostats: Save up to 10% by automating temperature adjustments.

• Weatherization: Seal windows/doors and add attic insulation to reduce AC load.

4. Consider Solar Panels

Fort Worth averages 5 peak sun hours daily, making solar viable. With the federal 30% tax credit and net metering, homeowners can cut bills by 40–70%.

5. Apply for Assistance Programs

• LITE-UP Texas: Discounted rates for low-income households.

• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP): Free home upgrades to improve efficiency.

The Future of Energy Rates in Fort Worth

While short-term volatility is likely, long-term trends could stabilize costs:

• Renewable Energy Growth: ERCOT expects solar capacity to double by 2025, reducing reliance on natural gas.

• Battery Storage: Large-scale projects (like Tesla’s Angleton plant) will store excess solar/wind energy for peak demand.

• Grid Modernization: State-funded upgrades aim to prevent Uri-like crises, though costs may temporarily raise rates.

The Bottom Line

Fort Worth’s energy rates are neither the cheapest nor the most expensive in Texas, but savvy consumers can take control of their bills. By understanding market trends, comparing providers, and adopting energy-saving habits, residents can navigate the complexities of the ERCOT grid and keep costs manageable. As renewable energy expands and infrastructure improves, Fort Worth is poised to balance affordability with reliability—even as the Texas heat keeps rising.

Whether you’re a longtime resident or new to the city, staying informed and proactive is the key to keeping your cool—both literally and financially—in Fort Worth’s dynamic energy landscape.