Rio Grande Valley

Rio Grande Valley families have built a thriving cultural and economic region with a colorful way-of-life all its own. But now, big energy companies have allowed Rio Grande Valley energy costs to soar, and our power grid to falter.

Hard-working families throughout the Rio Grande Valley pay too much for energy that is unreliable and unsafe for our environment. But the good news is that we can do something about it. Starting right at home.

Whether your home is a duplex in downtown McAllen, a traditional casita in Brownsville or a ranchito in La Grulla, you can take simple steps to lower your monthly energy bill and literally take back your power.

Ready to reclaim your power? Start here

When it comes to your monthly electrical provider, Exercise your Power.
Do your homework, and ask friends and family who have had experience with one of the energy providers in your area to find the best fit for your budget and energy needs.

KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR ENERGY PROVIDERS:

Am I in your service area?

What is your cost per kilowatt hour?

Do you offer fixed or variable rate plans?

Do you offer payment plans or payment arrangements for times of financial hardship?

What costs will I incur if I sign up?

What do current customers say about this service? Read reviews, even social media, to confirm

In times of financial hardship or unexpected expenses, ask your provider for help finding a solution to maintain your utilities while making payments on your balance. Remember. They’re here to serve YOU

If Magic Valley is your provider, remember – you are also an owner of this Electric Cooperative (Co-op):

Share your voice regarding how Magic Valley serves its members and partners with organizations

Claim your Co-op discounts with participating business partners

Speak up and show up to support Magic Valley’s, community programs

Do you already have an energy provider?

Here are simple things you can do to save money EVERY month

Simple Tips

Do fewer, bigger laundry loads. This will save water and water heating costs

Set your thermostat at 78°F or higher - Texas PUC reports that every degree of extra cooling will increase energy usage six to eight percent

Shift your schedule to complete heat and humidity-generating activities (cooking, laundering, and dishwashing) for early morning or evening hours.

Circulate cool air efficiently using ceiling fans and portable fans

Air dry your laundry on a clothesline for a refreshing way to save money

After work or workouts, cool down with a quick, cool shower instead of a long, steamy bath

Keep the heat and cold outside - where they belong. Brighten your home with colorful blinds or drapes. They help reduce loss of air through your windows at night. If your blinds or drapes don’t completely cover your windows, use plastic sheeting for insulation day and night

Unplug electronic devices, chargers, and appliances when not in use

TAKING IT FURTHER

Seal gaps in window frames using inexpensive caulk. This simple hack can save you real dollars on your monthly electricity bill

Seal gaps on all doors to prevent air from entering and escaping. Experts say this repair begins to pay for itself immediately in lower energy bills

Change your AC filters regularly to save on your monthly energy bill, and to reduce dust, allergens, and irritants nobody wants to breathe

Do what your abuela did: Plant trees, shrubs, and groundcover plants to shade packed ground and pavement around your home. If you’re renting, build a trellis for climbing vines or place potted shade plants around your patio. This helps cool the air before it reaches your home’s walls and windows

Reset your water heater. You’ll see real savings just by turning your hot water tank down to 120°

Shade hardworking outside air conditioning units to increase efficiency

Wrap it up. Insulating your hot water pipes and installing a water heater insulation blanket on your tank is an easy way to reduce energy consumption and save you money

GO ALL IN

Take a stand for your community. Learn about community organizations you can support to help provide adequate infrastructure and proper drainage

When it’s affordable, upgrade to energy efficient appliances

Hire a licensed technician to inspect your duct system for air leaks and proper insulation - it’s a wise investment to improve your budget and comfort

Work with a licensed electrician to install energy efficient lighting in your home

If you’re ready to consider converting your home to Solar Energy, visit our resource page to get started. And remember, trust only reputable solar providers to assist your conversion to energy-saving solar power. AVOID predatory door-to-door solar companies

Have a great RGV energy-saving tip we should know about? Share it here!

HOW CAN WE FIGHT FOR RGV?

Together, we can build a clean energy future where our kids can play in the rain instead of running from it. Sign up now to demand decent infrastructure across the valley.

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Let’s keep our money and our energy from flying out the window.

Ready to reclaim your power? Start here

KEY QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR ENERGY PROVIDERS: