If you’re working from home, your electricity habits probably look a lot different than they used to. Coffee’s always brewing, the laptop stays on all day, and the thermostat gets more attention than ever. That shift in routine affects your energy use, and it should factor into the plan you pick.
Let’s look at the best types of electricity plans for remote workers and how to pick one that fits your work-from-home lifestyle.
Why Working from Home Changes Your Electricity Needs
Remote work means your home is your office. That simple change affects energy use in a few key ways:
More daytime usage: You’re using power during peak daylight hours when rates are sometimes higher
Longer appliance run times: Computers, monitors, routers, and lights stay on much longer
Climate control matters more: Heating or cooling a space you’re in all day can really add up
Routine becomes a pattern: Your usage becomes more predictable, which can help you choose the right type of plan
In short, working from home shifts your energy use to the middle of the day, and that matters when choosing a plan.
Understanding the Types of Electricity Plans
Before we talk about what’s best for remote workers, let’s look at the kinds of plans you’ll find in Texas.
Fixed-Rate Plans
You pay the same electricity rate per kilowatt-hour throughout your contract. It doesn’t change based on when or how much you use.
Good for: Predictable bills, long-term stability
Watch for: Monthly base charges and usage tiers that might change your effective rate
Time-of-Use Plans
These plans offer different rates depending on the time of day. For example, nights might be cheaper than afternoons.
Good for: People who can shift usage to cheaper times
Watch for: Higher rates during peak hours if you’re not careful with timing
Renewable Energy Plans
These can be fixed or time-of-use, but the key is that the energy is matched with renewable sources like wind or solar.
Good for: Environmentally conscious users
Watch for: Make sure it’s truly 100 percent renewable with clear plan details
What Makes a Plan “Work-from-Home Friendly”?
When evaluating a plan, here’s what matters most for people working from home:
1. Midday Rate Fairness
If you’re home during typical 9-to-5 hours, your usage leans into peak times. Avoid plans that spike prices in the afternoon unless you can significantly cut back during that window.
Look for plans with even daytime pricing or time-of-use plans with off-peak windows that fit your routine.
2. Predictability
When you’re managing your own hours or balancing a home office with family life, surprises on your bill are the last thing you need. A fixed-rate plan can give you peace of mind that your usage won’t be penalized just because you work from home.
3. Renewable Content
If you’re working remotely to reduce your commute and carbon footprint, pairing that with a renewable plan helps reduce your overall impact. Some REPs offer 100 percent renewable plans that don’t cost extra.
4. Online Tools and Usage Data
Tracking your usage can help you spot patterns, reduce waste, and manage costs. Choose a provider that gives you access to daily usage data, smart alerts, or insights tied to your home’s smart meter.
Tips for Managing Your Energy While Working from Home
No matter what plan you choose, here are ways to stay efficient:
Use natural light when possible instead of overhead lights
Set your thermostat a few degrees higher or lower depending on the season
Use a smart power strip to cut off power to printers, chargers, or other equipment when not in use
Program a smart thermostat to match your workday routine
Unplug or power down devices at night when the home office is closed
Over time, small adjustments like these can make a noticeable difference.
What About PowerShift?
If your work schedule has some flexibility, Rhythm’s PowerShift time-of-use plan could work for you. It rewards customers for using more electricity at night and less during peak hours. If you take a midday walk, run errands in the afternoon, or already shift your major appliance use to later in the day, PowerShift could be a good fit.
Even if you use a fair amount of power during the day, the plan’s overnight and weekend savings balance it out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I work from home on a time-of-use plan?
Yes, but you’ll want to check when peak hours fall and whether your schedule aligns with off-peak periods. Some time-of-use plans offer cheap overnight rates that may not help if you’re using most electricity during the day.
Is a fixed-rate plan better if I work from home?
In many cases, yes. Fixed-rate plans offer stability, which helps when your usage is higher during the day. But if your usage is lower or concentrated during cheaper hours, a time-of-use plan might save you more.
Does working from home increase electricity bills a lot?
It can. Using lights, electronics, HVAC, and appliances throughout the day increases your overall usage. Choosing the right plan and practicing good energy habits can help offset those increases.
What if I only work from home a few days a week?
You’ll want to estimate your energy habits on both home and office days. A flexible plan or one with consistent rates may be better than a time-of-use option if your schedule changes often.
Are renewable energy plans more expensive?
Not always. Some providers offer 100 percent renewable energy plans at the same or even lower rates than traditional ones. Always compare the EFLs (Electricity Facts Labels) to know what you’re getting.
