Tim Tsang · Independent Ambit Consultant · Texas
Texas small-business electricity guides · Last reviewed 2026-10-23
Cutting the power bill at your church
Big rooms, long services and Texas heat make power one of a church's larger bills. Most of the savings come from scheduling, not spending.
There's room to save
ENERGY STAR says an average worship facility can save up to 30 percent on energy through no-cost actions, strategic investment, and smart operations and maintenance.
Cool rooms only when people are in them
Sanctuaries and halls sit empty most of the week. ENERGY STAR calls a programmable thermostat ideal for spaces that are unoccupied at set times each week.
- Start cooling the sanctuary about an hour before services, then set it back after.
- Give each hall and classroom its own schedule for classes and events.
- Lock the settings so a hand-turned thermostat isn't left running all week.
Start with the lights that stay on longest
ENERGY STAR certified LEDs typically use 90% less energy than traditional lighting. Hallways, parking lots and signs are the best places to begin.
Plan the contract around your budget year
Know when your electricity contract ends, and decide on the renewal before next year's budget is set. For a business account, the final renewal notice can come only two weeks before the end.
About Ambit's plans
- Ambit offers fixed-rate electricity plans for small businesses, with terms of 12 months or longer (early termination fees apply; see the Electricity Facts Label).
- If you switch from another provider, you can rescind within three federal business days of receiving Ambit's Terms of Service, without fee or penalty.
Want a second look at your business bill?
Email me a photo of one recent bill. I'll compare your rate and contract with Ambit's small-business plans at no charge.
Or email me: tim@txbillcheck.com
Sources
- ENERGY STAR for Congregations
- ENERGY STAR: Restaurants
- 16 TAC ยง25.475, Texas rule on retail electric products and contracts (Cornell LII copy)