What are utility delivery charges? Why is my "all-in" price different than my energy rate?

Utility delivery charges are standard fees mandated by transmission and distribution utility companies (TDUs) like CenterPoint, applicable across all energy providers in their respective service areas. These are non-negotiable, regulated fees that energy providers must collect and remit to the TDUs.

Your utility delivery charges are service fees from the TDU, which Base passes onto you with no additional markup. Your average price includes our rate plus the utility delivery charges. These charges are standard across all energy providers within the TDU's area and remain consistent.

Your utility delivery charges are calculated at a fixed rate per kWh, but your total monthly charge varies based on usage. The more electricity you use, the higher your total utility delivery charges—not because the rate changed, but because you consumed more energy.