Quick Answer
Texas leads the nation in wind power. You can buy 100% renewable electricity—but green plans are not always what they seem. Here is what you actually get and what it costs.
Green Electricity in Texas
Texas generates more wind power than any other state—and it's not even close. In 2024, wind and solar combined provided over 35% of ERCOT grid electricity.
The truth about "100% renewable" plans:
- Electrons don't come with labels
- Electricity flowing to your home is a mix of everything on the grid
- Green plans work through a credit system (RECs)
- You support renewable generation without physically receiving "green electrons"
How Green Plans Actually Work
When you buy a 100% renewable plan, your REP purchases Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) equal to your electricity usage.
Each REC represents:
- 1 megawatt-hour of renewable electricity
- Generated somewhere in Texas (usually) or the US
What actually happens:
- Your electricity still comes from the ERCOT grid mix
- Your RECs financially support renewable generators
- This helps them stay profitable and encourages more clean energy development
Think of it like carbon offsets: You're not consuming green electrons directly, but you're funding their production. More demand = more renewable capacity built.
Types of Green Plans
| Plan Type | Description | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| 100% Renewable | All usage matched with RECs from wind/solar | +0.5-1.5¢/kWh |
| Partial Renewable | 50% or 75% renewable | Less than 100% |
| Texas Wind | RECs specifically from Texas wind farms | Supports local |
| National RECs | RECs from anywhere in US | Cheaper, less local impact |
| Solar-Specific | Less common (Texas has more wind) | May cost slightly more |
What Green Plans Cost
In 2025, the premium for 100% renewable electricity in Texas typically ranges from 0.5¢ to 1.5¢ per kWh above comparable standard plans.
Example (1,000 kWh/month household):
| Plan Type | Rate | Monthly Bill |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10¢/kWh | $100/month |
| 100% Green | 11¢/kWh | $110/month |
| Green Premium | +1¢/kWh | $10/month ($120/year) |
Pro tip: Some green plans are actually competitive with standard rates when market conditions favor renewables. Shop around—don't assume green always costs more.
Top Green Electricity Providers
| Provider | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Green Mountain Energy | Original Texas green provider (since 1997). Premium pricing, strong commitment. |
| Chariot Energy | 100% solar-backed plans, competitive rates. Solar buyback available. |
| Rhythm Energy | Time-of-use plans with 100% renewable backing. Innovative pricing. |
| Gexa Energy | Both 100% renewable and partial green options at competitive rates. |
| TXU Energy | Free Nights plans available with 100% renewable for daytime usage. |
Most major providers now offer at least one green plan option.
What to Look For in Green Plans
Not all green claims are equal. Check these factors:
| Factor | What to Check |
|---|---|
| REC Source | Texas RECs support local wind farms. National = cheaper but less local impact. |
| Certification | Look for Green-e certification (national standard for renewable energy). |
| Percentage | Confirm if 100% renewable or partial. Marketing can be misleading. |
| Contract Terms | Same rules as standard plans. Check term length and ETF. |
| Total Rate | Compare all-in rate on EFL, not just green premium. |
Some green plans actually beat standard plans on total cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does green electricity actually reduce emissions?
Is green electricity more expensive in Texas?
Can I get 100% solar electricity in Texas?
What is Green-e certification?
Looking for more? Explore all our How-To Guides guides for more helpful resources.
About the author
Consumer Advocate
Han helps consumers in deregulated states understand their electricity options. He breaks down confusing rate structures, explains how to read an EFL, and identifies which plans save money versus those that just look cheap upfront.
Compare rates in your area
Topics covered
Sources & References
- Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT): "ERCOT renewable generation data"Accessed Dec 2025
Last updated: December 31, 2025
