Frontier Utilities vs SmartEnergy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Frontier Utilities offers 58 plans starting at 7.0c/kWh while SmartEnergy has 20 plans from 9.5c/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 (8.8c/kWh vs 9.7c/kWh). Consistent pricing regardless of how much electricity you use.
Below 2,000 kWh, Frontier Utilities tends to be cheaper. Above that, SmartEnergy has the edge.
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 | Frontier Utilities Best Plan | Rate | Fee | SmartEnergy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | Frontier Power Saver 3EFL | 9.5c | $150 flat | SmartGreen 3EFL | 9.5c | None | Tie |
| 12 Month | Frontier Saver Plus 12EFL | 7.0c | $150 flat | SmartGreen 9 $200 Bill CreditEFL | 11.6c | $20/mo remaining | Frontier Utilities |
| 24 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | SmartGreen 24 $200 Bill CreditEFL | 12.9c | $20/mo remaining | SmartEnergy |
Plan Type Breakdown
Frontier Utilities
SmartEnergy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Frontier Utilities
SmartEnergy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Frontier Utilities
SmartEnergy
Full Plan Tables
Frontier Utilities (0 plans)
No plans available in this service area.
SmartEnergy (0 plans)
No plans available in this service area.
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Frontier Utilities
Frontier Utilities has the lower advertised rate at 7.0c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 9.5c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: SmartEnergy
SmartEnergy has the better option for locking in a rate on a 24-month contract.
Going Green?
Better fit: SmartEnergy
SmartEnergy offers more 100% renewable plans (20 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Frontier Utilities cheaper than SmartEnergy?
Based on current plan data, Frontier Utilities has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 7.0c/kWh compared to 9.5c/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 Frontier Utilities offer renewable energy plans compared to SmartEnergy?
Frontier Utilities offers 0 plans (0% of its lineup) at 100% renewable energy, while SmartEnergy offers 20 plans (100% of its lineup).
What are the cancellation fees for Frontier Utilities vs SmartEnergy?
Frontier Utilities charges $150 - $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, Frontier Utilities or SmartEnergy?
Frontier Utilities currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 58 plans compared to 20.
Can I switch from Frontier Utilities 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.