Constellation vs SmartEnergy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Constellation offers 25 plans starting at 10.6c/kWh while SmartEnergy has 19 plans from 9.1c/kWh across all 6 Texas TDU service areas. Here is how their rates, terms, renewable options, and fees compare.
Rate Curve Comparison
Lowest average rate across all usage levels (9.3c/kWh vs 10.7c/kWh). Consistent pricing regardless of how much electricity you use.
Shows the best available all-in rate from each provider at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh usage levels. The best plan may differ at each tier.
Best Plan Per Term Length
| Term | Constellation Best Plan | Rate | Fee | SmartEnergy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | Simple Switch 3EFL | 10.6c | $50 flat | SmartGreen 3EFL | 9.1c | None | SmartEnergy |
| 12 Month | 12 Month Usage Bill Credit EFL | 11.2c | $150 flat | SmartGreen 9 $200 Bill CreditEFL | 11.9c | $20/mo remaining | Constellation |
| 24 Month | 14 Month Usage Bill CreditEFL | 11.8c | $150 flat | SmartGreen 24 $200 Bill CreditEFL | 13.0c | $20/mo remaining | Constellation |
| 36 Month | 36 Month Usage Bill CreditEFL | 12.8c | $150 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Constellation |
Plan Type Breakdown
Constellation
SmartEnergy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Constellation
SmartEnergy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Constellation
SmartEnergy
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: SmartEnergy
SmartEnergy has the lower advertised rate at 9.1c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 10.6c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: Constellation
Constellation has the better option for locking in a rate on a 24-month or longer contract.
Going Green?
Better fit: SmartEnergy
SmartEnergy offers more 100% renewable plans (19 vs 0).
Need Flexibility?
Better fit: SmartEnergy
SmartEnergy uses a per-month cancellation structure, so your fee decreases over time - making it easier to switch later.
These rates are based on 1,000 kWh average usage. Your actual savings depend on YOUR usage pattern.
WattTrim analyzes your real Smart Meter data to find the plan that saves you the most - across all providers, not just these two.
Always Free
Trim My BillFrequently Asked Questions
Is Constellation cheaper than SmartEnergy?
Based on current plan data, SmartEnergy has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 9.1c/kWh compared to 10.6c/kWh from the other provider at 1,000 kWh of usage. Your actual cost depends on your usage pattern and the specific plan you choose.
Does Constellation offer renewable energy plans compared to SmartEnergy?
Constellation offers 0 plans (0% of its lineup) at 100% renewable energy, while SmartEnergy offers 19 plans (100% of its lineup).
What are the cancellation fees for Constellation vs SmartEnergy?
Constellation charges $50 - $150 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans, while SmartEnergy charges $20 - $20 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans. Always review the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for the exact fee structure before enrolling.
Which provider has more plan options in Texas, Constellation or SmartEnergy?
Constellation currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 25 plans compared to 19.
Can I switch from Constellation to SmartEnergy?
Yes. Texas is a deregulated electricity market, so you can switch retail electric providers at any time. If you are still under contract with your current provider, check for an early termination fee before switching. New service with either provider typically starts within 1 to 5 business days of enrollment.