What Will the CenterPoint Energy Settlement Do?
Texas power customers will soon see lower bills thanks to the CenterPoint Energy settlement. This agreement has been approved by regulators. So, it’s likely that it will reduce delivery rates for homes and businesses. The savings come after the utility shelved a rate hike to pay for damage from Hurricane Beryl. Instead, the agreement sets a new rate structure for homeowners and businesses. For Houston consumers looking for cheap electricity, this may offer them more affordable options.
How the CenterPoint Energy Settlement Affects Rates
The CenterPoint Energy settlement with the City of Houston and other regional municipalities will lower base delivery rates for homes. The average home will save about $1 per month on bills. Businesses will also see rate cuts as well. As a result, these changes help balance the needs of both consumers and CenterPoint.
On top of that, CenterPoint is offering $5.2 million as a one-time refund. But, the interested parties have not worked out all the details. It’s possible that retail providers will be the middlemen. However, future court filings will likely need to spell out the details for what their role will be .
Storm Recovery Costs Passed to REPs
Even with rate cuts, CenterPoint will need to recover some hurricane repair costs. The firm plans to charge retail electric providers (REPs) a special fee or “rider”. CenterPoint will use it to help pay for storm damage repairs. While this fee won’t appear directly on customer bills, REPs may adjust their pricing to account for the added cost. After all, you don’t really expect them to just eat the cost!? This passing along of fees makes it even more critical for Texans to compare power plans.
New Rules for Power Disconnections
The settlement also changes when power shut offs happen during extreme weather. Previously, rules banned shut offs when temperatures grow dangerously high or low. Now, only certain customers — such as those in critical care programs — will receive automatic protection.
What This Means for Texas Electricity Customers
These changes could lead to lower bills. The savings won’t buy you a boat, but it’s important to watch, nonetheless. Small changes add up over time. And while some REPs may adjust their pricing, reduced delivery rates should help keep costs under control.
If you’re shopping for a new plan, now is a great time to compare options at http://www.texaselectricityratings.com. Stay informed and explore plans to secure the best rates for your needs.