When summer hits Texas, so do soaring temperatures—and with them, skyrocketing energy bills. Air conditioners across the state run full blast, driving up electricity demand and causing market prices to spike. If you’re on a variable-rate plan, you might feel the pinch more than others.

The good news? There’s a simple way to avoid these unpredictable costs: switch to a fixed-rate electricity plan. At Amerigy Energy, we believe fixed-rate plans are a smart choice for anyone looking to protect their budget and gain peace of mind, especially during the intense heat of Texas summers.

The Challenge: Summer Demand in the ERCOT Market

The ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) market operates on a supply-and-demand system. During summer, when electricity usage peaks, wholesale prices often surge. Factors like record-breaking heat waves and grid strain make variable-rate plans risky, as rates can double or even triple during these high-demand periods.

Real-World Example: In the summer of 2023, Texas saw multiple days where grid demand exceeded 80,000 megawatts—causing significant price volatility for variable-rate customers.

The Solution: Fixed-Rate Plans

A fixed-rate plan locks in your price per kilowatt-hour (kWh) for the duration of your contract, typically 6 to 36 months. This means that regardless of market fluctuations, your rate remains stable, giving you predictable bills and protection from sudden price spikes.

Why Fixed-Rate Plans Are Ideal for Texas Summers

1. Price Stability

When temperatures soar, so does electricity demand—and with it, the cost of power. Fixed-rate plans protect you from these seasonal surges, ensuring that your rate stays the same, even on the hottest days.

Example: While variable-rate customers may see their bills double during a heatwave, fixed-rate customers enjoy the stability of predictable costs.

2. Budget-Friendly Bills

Summer electricity bills are already higher due to increased usage, especially for cooling. A fixed-rate plan eliminates the added worry of unpredictable spikes, making it easier to budget for your energy expenses.

Pro Tip: Combine a fixed-rate plan with energy-saving practices, like setting your thermostat higher when you’re not home, to maximize your savings.

3. Peace of Mind During Extreme Weather

Texas summers can bring not only heat but also storms and power outages. Knowing that your electricity rate won’t change, regardless of market conditions, gives you one less thing to worry about.

Additional Benefits of Fixed-Rate Plans

• Long-Term Savings: Over the course of a year, the stability of a fixed-rate plan often results in significant savings compared to the volatility of a variable-rate plan.
• No Surprises: You’ll never open your bill and be shocked by an unexpected rate increase.
• Tailored Options: At Amerigy Energy, we offer a wide range of fixed-rate plans tailored to your specific needs, whether you’re a homeowner or a business owner.

How Amerigy Energy Can Help

As representatives of over 50 energy providers, Amerigy Energy is uniquely positioned to find the best fixed-rate plan for your home or business. Here’s how we make it easy for you:

• Rate Comparison: We shop the market to secure the most competitive fixed rates.
• Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees, no surprises—just clear and honest plans.
• Expert Guidance: We help you choose the right plan based on your energy usage and goals.

Take Control of Your Energy Costs This Summer

Don’t let Texas heatwaves leave you sweating over your energy bill. By switching to a fixed-rate plan, you can lock in stability, save money, and enjoy peace of mind no matter how high the temperatures climb.

Contact Amerigy Energy today for a free consultation. Let us help you find a fixed-rate plan that keeps your energy costs under control this summer and beyond.

This article is part of a regular weekly column provided by Amerigy Energy, your trusted partner for residential and commercial energy solutions across Texas.