Can I switch electricity providers in my area?
Texas residents in deregulated areas served by .svg.png)
(about 85% of Texas) can switch providers. Enter your ZIP code above to find out. Austin, San Antonio, and El Paso have municipal utilities that do not participate in retail choice.
What's an EFL and why does it matter?
The Electricity Facts Label is a standardized document Texas requires for every plan. It shows actual rates at 500, 1000, and 2000 kWh usage levels—not just advertised rates. Always compare EFL rates to understand true costs.
How much can I save by switching?
Texas households typically save 10–25% by switching from variable rates or expired contracts to competitive fixed-rate plans. Actual savings depend on the current rate and monthly energy usage. Enter your ZIP code to see current rates in your area.
Is there a fee to switch providers?
Switching electricity providers in Texas is free. Texas customers on a fixed-rate plan who leave before the contract ends may owe an early termination fee (typically $50–$200). Month-to-month and variable-rate plans have no termination fees.
Will my power go out when I switch?
No. The Texas utility company (Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, or TNMP) continues delivering power throughout the switch. Only the retail electric provider billing for generation changes. There is no truck roll, no new meter, and no service interruption.
Is PowerToChoose.org legit?
PowerToChoose.org is the official electricity comparison website operated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT). The PUCT created PowerToChoose.org in 2002 when the Texas electricity market deregulated. Every retail electric provider listed on PowerToChoose.org holds a valid PUCT license.
How long does it take to switch electricity providers in Texas?
Switching Texas electricity providers typically takes 1–3 business days after enrollment. The new retail electric provider coordinates the switch with the local utility (Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, or TNMP) — no action is needed beyond signing up. Texas customers receive a confirmation email with the start date.
Can renters choose their electricity provider in Texas?
Yes. Texas renters in deregulated areas have the same power to choose as homeowners. Any electricity customer who is the account holder for an address can choose and switch providers. Texas landlords cannot restrict a tenant's choice of electricity provider.
What happens when my electricity contract expires?
When a Texas fixed-rate electricity contract expires, most retail electric providers switch the customer to a month-to-month variable rate that is usually 30–50% higher. Texas law requires providers to send a contract expiration notice at least 30 days in advance. Texas customers should shop for a new plan 2–3 weeks before the end date to avoid overpaying.
Can I cancel my electricity plan without a fee?
Month-to-month and variable-rate plans have no cancellation fee. Fixed-rate contracts may have an early termination fee, typically $50-$200. The exact fee amount is listed on your Electricity Facts Label (EFL).
What is an ESID number in Texas?
An ESID (Electric Service Identifier) is a unique number assigned to your meter by ERCOT. Your ESID identifies your specific electrical connection and determines which utility delivers your power. You can find your ESID on your electricity bill or through the ESID lookup tool.
Can I get electricity in Texas with no credit check?
Yes. Several Texas providers offer prepaid electricity plans with no credit check, no deposit, and no long-term contract. You pay in advance and add funds as needed. Prepaid plans are a good option if you have no credit history or want to avoid a deposit.
What is a good electricity rate in Texas in 2026?
A good electricity rate in Texas in 2026 is between 7¢ and 10¢ per kWh for a fixed-rate plan at 1,000 kWh monthly usage, including all delivery charges. Rates below 8¢/kWh are considered excellent. Rates vary by utility service area — CenterPoint (Houston) and Oncor (Dallas) areas typically have the lowest rates because of higher population density and more provider competition. Check current rates for your ZIP code to see what's available today.
How do I set up electricity when moving to Texas?
Texas residents moving to a deregulated area need to choose an electricity provider before move-in day. Enter your new ZIP code on ElectricRates.org or PowerToChoose.org to see available plans. Select a provider, provide your move-in date and new address, and the provider will coordinate service activation with your local utility (Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, or TNMP). Most providers can activate service within 1–3 business days. If you're moving from out of state, you do not need a Texas ID to sign up — just your new address and a valid ID.
Does Power to Choose apply to businesses?
Yes, but differently. Texas commercial and industrial customers in deregulated areas can choose their electricity provider, just like residential customers. However, PowerToChoose.org focuses on residential plans. Texas businesses typically get custom rate quotes based on their usage profile, demand patterns, and contract size. Commercial rates in Texas are generally 20–30% lower than residential rates per kWh.
Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)
The PUCT regulates Texas electricity providers and handles consumer complaints:
Mail
1701 N. Congress Ave, P.O. Box 13326
Austin, TX 78711-3326
How do I file a complaint against my Texas electricity provider?
Texas electricity customers can file complaints with the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) by calling (512) 936-7000, emailing consumer@puc.texas.gov, or submitting a complaint online at puc.texas.gov. The PUCT investigates complaints about billing disputes, unauthorized switches (slamming), service quality, and deceptive marketing. Texas customers should first attempt to resolve issues directly with their provider, then escalate to the PUCT if unresolved.
What is the PUCT REP complaint scorecard?
The PUCT publishes a quarterly REP Industry Scorecard that rates every retail electric provider in Texas based on complaint volume per customer. The scorecard uses a five-dot system — five dots means the fewest complaints relative to customer count. Texas electricity shoppers should check the scorecard before choosing a provider, since the lowest rate means nothing if the company has a history of billing errors, unauthorized charges, or poor customer service. The scorecard is available on puc.texas.gov.
