How to read your Octopus Energy bill

Did you know that each energy company has different information on their bills? That’s why we created this handy guide to (hopefully!) answer some of your questions when it comes to this super important window into your energy use.

For those of you who want the quick view, we’ve included an image breakdown as well.

Main billing highlights

Bill details are mentioned in the order they appear above.

Bill period: This date range we’re billing you for. It should match up with your meter readings.

Previous balance: This matches up with your previous balance from your last bill. Any payments you’ve made since this date have not been factored into the amount shown here.

Our energy charges: This is your base rate or what we’re charging you for energy.

TDU charges: This is what your utility (a.k.a. “distributor” or “poles and wires” company)charges you to deliver and transmit your energy. This will always be the same, regardless of your energy supplier.

Taxes and misc. fees: These are charges that we pass on to you from third parties (City, County, etc.). These are also the same, regardless of your energy supplier.

Total charges for meter dates: This is the sum of the charges applied for the charging period(see meter readings, to the right).

Payments this billing cycle: This refers to any payments that you may have made during your billing period.

New balance: This is the amount that’s owed after your payments during the bill period and any other charges or credits have been applied.

Bill issue and due date and total amount due: Your bill is sent approximately 10 working days after it’s been issued. You currently owe the total amount due listed here. The due date is when your payment is due. Looking for your account number? You can find it here.

Meter readings: This is where you can see the timeframe for your energy charges. 

Customer name and billing address: This is your name and billing address, unless your supply address and billing address are the same.

Average price per kWh: This fluctuates up and down from month to month depending on how much electricity you’ve used. Some of the charges above change monthly, but not your fixed rate with us (unless you have a variable rate plan).

Service point details: Here’s where we list your ESI ID. What’s that? This refers to an Electric Service Identifier. This is a unique number that’s assigned to every meter in Texas. The service address is the property that’s getting electricity from us.

Have any questions?

We hope this video and breakdown helps you understand your bill. You still might have a few questions, and that’s totally ok! Feel free to email us at heretohelp@octopusenergy.com or give us a call at 833-OCTO-888 to speak with one of our Energy Specialists!