Can a Smart Thermostat Help You Save?

Keeping your home cool in summer and warm in winter can get expensive. Just ask any Texan, and you’ll verify this fact. The Oncor Smart Thermostat Program helps Texas homes cut those costs while saving energy. The program lets Dallas and other north Texas customers earn incentives for letting Oncor reduce their power use during peak demand times.
How the Smart Thermostat Program Works
Oncor customers can now sign up for the program through their retail electricity provider (REP). After signing up, the REP connects a qualifying smart thermostat to the program. During high-demand periods, the smart thermostat adjusts slightly to use less power. Therefore, customers stay comfortable while helping to prevent strain on the power grid. The sacrifice is small, and the savings can add up over time. And if you find the program doesn’t work for you, you can have your REP take you off the program.
Homeowners and renters with compatible thermostats who take part can receive financial rewards. Some REPs offer bill credits, while others provide direct payments. For renters, your landlord will be happy, too. After all, you’ll run your HVAC system more efficiently. And it can’t hurt to get on well with your landlord!
Saving Money and Energy
This program cuts energy use, lowering your electric bills. Smart controllers already help manage heating and cooling more efficiently. By joining Oncor’s program, Texans save even more. You save power and get rewarded for it. So, what’s not to love!?
Customers are making a huge difference! In fact, Oncor reported that participants reduced demand by nearly 300 megawatts in 2024. That’s enough to power thousands of homes. And these reductions help prevent blackouts and keep power prices stable for everyone.
Are Other TDUs Offering Similar Programs?
Other Texas transmission and distribution utilities (TDUs) offer their own smart device programs. CenterPoint Energy and AEP Texas provide similar options. Just as with Oncor, these programs reward customers for using less energy during peak hours.
If you live in a different service area, check with your TDU or REP. Many companies now offer incentives to help Texans save energy and money.
Sign Up and Start Saving
Oncor’s Smart Thermostat Program is a great way to lower your bills and help the north Texas power grid. If you have a qualifying thermostat, ask your REP about joining. If your REP is not participating, visit Oncor’s Take a Load Off Texas page. You could start saving money while making a difference in your community. And if you need a new power plan, shop for a new one at http://www.texaselectricityratings.com/electric-rates. No matter who your TDU is, you can save big when you select a new plan.