Step 1: Keep rates affordable
Keeping energy costs affordable for our customers is a top priority. According to the U.S. Department of Energy’s Energy Information Administration, our average residential rates are 18 percent below the national average and eight percent lower than average residential rates in Texas, even as the cost of goods and materials has risen significantly since 2005. We carefully manage rates through a balanced approach that includes reviewing base rates regularly, procuring fuel at the lowest available prices and passing those savings directly to customers.
10 consecutive years of residential rates below the state and national average
Additionally, we invest in diverse power generation sources that help stabilize prices and enhance reliability. New, modern and diverse power generation sources help us and our customers meet clean energy goals but also offer us the flexibility to lessen the impact on customer bills should one fuel source spike in price. We also explore alternative funding to minimize costs, such as government grants and low-cost loans, which support critical infrastructure projects without burdening our customers. These investments improve the resilience of our grid and reduce storm restoration costs, saving customers money in the long term.
While most Texans rely on the Electric Reliability Council of Texas grid, Entergy Texas operates under the Midcontinent Independent System Operator grid. Our membership in MISO brings cost savings directly to our customers by sharing resources among a large pool of member utilities that stretches across MISO’s vast footprint from Canada to the Gulf of Mexico. By sharing in that large pool, among other customer benefits, we can continue maintaining reliability with less power generation capacity than if we were operating on our own, creating efficiencies and lower costs in energy delivery. Between 2014 and 2022, Entergy Texas customers saved a total of $475 million from the company’s participation in MISO.
We remain mindful of our residential customers and their ability to afford their electricity bills, as approximately 25% live below the poverty line. Our bill management tools, such as real-time usage monitoring and flexible payment options, empower customers to take control of their energy costs. Whether it’s through the myEntergy dashboard, energy efficiency programs, or resources like our online Bill Toolkit, we offer simple ways for customers to stay informed, reduce their bill and manage their budgets. For customers in need, we provide financial assistance through programs like The Power to Care and partnerships with local organizations. By working with community groups and government agencies, we ensure that vulnerable customers have access to the support they need.
Our goal is to keep energy affordable for all, while also helping those who need extra assistance.
