How Much is a CenterPoint Energy Bill Increasing in Houston

If you’re a CenterPoint Energy customer in Houston, you’re likely asking one main question: how much is my bill going up in September 2025?

The direct answer is that the typical residential customer using 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) per month will see an increase of approximately $13.50 on their monthly bill .

This change is part of a seasonal rate adjustment that occurs every September, not a random price hike. Let’s break down what this means for you.

⚡ Why Is My CenterPoint Energy Bill Increasing?

CenterPoint Energy, which maintains the local power lines and delivers electricity to your home, implements seasonal rate changes approved by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). This adjustment affects the transmission and distribution utility (TDU) delivery charge, which is separate from the energy charge set by your retail electric provider (REP) .

The September increase helps cover fixed infrastructure costs during fall and winter months when electricity usage typically declines. Rates are usually lowered again in March 2026 for the summer season .

Additionally, CenterPoint is seeking PUCT approval for a separate $2 monthly surcharge to cover storm restoration costs (e.g., Hurricane Beryl). If approved, this will take effect in early 2026 and last for 14 years .

💵 How Is the $13.50 Increase Calculated?

The increase is based on a rate hike of 1.3 cents per kWh for TDU delivery charges . Here’s how it impacts customers:

• For 1,000 kWh usage: The average monthly delivery charge jumps from $49 to nearly $63 (a $13.50 increase) .
• For higher usage (1,511 kWh): The delivery charge increases from $72.15 to $92.67 (a $20.52 increase) .

Your exact impact depends on your electricity consumption. Higher usage means a larger absolute increase due to the per-kWh rate adjustment.

🌪️ Additional Future Surcharge

Pending regulatory approval, customers will see an additional $2 monthly surcharge starting in early 2026 to cover storm recovery costs (e.g., Hurricane Beryl). This will apply for 14 years .

💡 What Can You Do to Manage Your Bill?

While you can’t avoid the TDU delivery charge increase, you can reduce your overall bill by:

1. Reducing Energy Consumption:
   • Turn up your thermostat by 7°F to save 10% on cooling costs .
   • Follow the 4-by-4 rule: If no one is home for over 4 hours, set the temperature 4 degrees higher .
   • Close blinds and shades during the day to minimize heat gain .
2. Shopping for a New REP: The energy charge (separate from delivery) is set by your REP. Compare plans to find competitive rates .
3. Monitoring Your Usage: Check your bill’s “TDSP/TDU delivery charge” line and meter read date to understand your specific rate changes .

📌 The Bottom Line

The typical CenterPoint Energy customer in Houston will see a monthly bill increase of ~$13.50 for 1,000 kWh usage starting September 1, 2025. This seasonal adjustment will likely reverse in March 2026, but an additional $2 monthly storm surcharge may apply starting in early 2026 .

For the most accurate information, refer to your latest CenterPoint bill or official updates on the CenterPoint Energy website.

Last modified: September 4, 2025