Quick Answer
Power to Choose is the official Texas comparison site, but it has serious limitations. Here are alternatives that show your actual cost—not just rates at fixed usage benchmarks.
Why Look Beyond Power to Choose?
Power to Choose (powertochoose.org) is the official Texas electricity comparison site, run by the Public Utility Commission of Texas. It lists every PUCT-licensed REP and every available plan.
Sounds comprehensive—but it has critical limitations.
The site shows rates at fixed benchmarks: 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh only.
- If your usage is 850 kWh or 1,400 kWh, you're guessing
- Many plans look cheap at 2,000 kWh but expensive at actual Texas-average usage of 1,100 kWh
Power to Choose Limitations
| Limitation | Impact |
|---|---|
| Fixed Usage Benchmarks | Only shows 500, 1,000, 2,000 kWh. Plans optimized for one level can be terrible at another. |
| No Total Cost Calculation | Shows rate per kWh, not your actual monthly bill. You do the math. |
| No Usage-Based Filtering | Can't search for "best plan for 1,200 kWh usage." |
| Overwhelming Options | 100+ plans with minimal filtering. Analysis paralysis is real. |
| No Side-by-Side Comparison | View plans one at a time. Lots of scrolling and note-taking. |
| No Historical Data | Can't see if a provider has raised rates or received complaints. |
ElectricRates.org: Usage-Based Comparison
ElectricRates.org calculates your actual monthly cost based on your real usage—not arbitrary benchmarks.
| Feature | What It Does |
|---|---|
| Live Link Integration | Connect Smart Meter to import actual usage history |
| Custom Usage Input | Enter your typical monthly kWh for accurate pricing |
| All-Inclusive Costs | Shows total monthly bill including TDU charges |
| Side-by-Side Comparison | Compare multiple plans with identical usage assumptions |
| Annual Cost Estimates | See full-year costs accounting for seasonal variations |
We tell 47% of shoppers NOT to switch because their current plan is already competitive. Power to Choose can't make that recommendation.
Recommended Comparison Resources
| Resource | Best For |
|---|---|
| ElectricRates.org | Usage-based comparison with real cost calculations. Our top recommendation for finding the best plan at your actual usage level. |
| Compare Power | Comprehensive Texas electricity comparison with transparent pricing and easy switching. |
| 2TurnItOn.com | All-in-one utility setup for major Texas cities—electricity, water, and internet in one place. |
Pro tip: Start with ElectricRates.org to see your actual cost based on your usage, then verify the EFL details before enrolling.
Smart Shopping Strategy
The best approach combines multiple resources:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1. Know Your Usage | Check Smart Meter Texas for monthly consumption history |
| 2. Calculate at YOUR Usage | Use ElectricRates.org to see costs at your actual consumption |
| 3. Verify the EFL | Review the Electricity Facts Label to confirm all charges and terms |
| 4. Read Reviews | Check provider reputation before committing |
| 5. Set Calendar Reminders | Mark contract end date to shop again before auto-renewal |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Power to Choose accurate?
Can I trust third-party comparison sites?
Do comparison sites get paid by providers?
What is the best way to compare electricity plans?
Looking for more? Explore all our Consumer Protection guides for more helpful resources.
About the author
Consumer Advocate
Brad has analyzed thousands of electricity plans since 2009. He understands how electricity pricing works, why some "low" rates end up costing more, and what to look for in an Electricity Facts Label. He writes to help people make sense of a confusing market.
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Topics covered
Sources & References
- Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT): "Power to Choose official site"Accessed Dec 2025
Last updated: December 31, 2025
