The Galveston County Commissioners Court has approved a six year agreement with TXU Energy to provide electricity to all county facilities saving taxpayers about $250,000 a year, or $1.5 million over the term of the contract.

“We conducted an exhaustive review of our electric needs and what suppliers were offering, and TXU Energy was by far the most compelling and allowed us to lock-in historic low rates” County Judge Mark Henry said. “We will continue to do our due diligence on every contract to make sure that, on behalf of taxpayers, we are getting the best possible deal and being treated fairly and honestly by service providers.”

TXU Energy’s bid came in at $90,000 below the current aggregators bid. In addition to the cost savings, TXU Energy pledged to plant trees in Galveston County and offered $35,000 in energy saving rebates. The rebates can be used to purchase items such as new LED lighting, saving taxpayers even more on electric costs.

“We are grateful and excited that TXU Energy has been chosen by Galveston County to provide its power through this multiyear plan that uniquely meets the county’s specific needs and saves taxpayers’ money,” said Gabe Castro, vice president of business markets at TXU Energy. “We look forward to not only serving the county as a customer for many years to come, but also as a committed corporate citizen dedicated to helping all the people of Galveston County.”

Commissioners unanimously approved the new agreement during their Tuesday meeting on June 20. With this electric deal Galveston County joined other local governments, like the cities of Dallas and Arlington, which have left aggregators to get better pricing on their own.