Your Power to Choose Energy in Texas

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) operates PowerToChoose.org, which displays electricity plans and providers across the state. However, you cannot sign up for an electricity plan directly on PowerToChoose.org. After you select a specific plan, the site directs you to the provider’s website, where you’ll have to restart your search for the plan you selected.

ChooseEnergy.com is not affiliated with Power to Choose, powertochoose.org, or the PUCT.

Choose Energy is a free and independent marketplace that enables you to compare your options and sign up in one easy place. We have two decades of experience working in deregulated energy markets and a team of energy experts ready to help you. On our marketplace, you’ll find straightforward plan details and all-inclusive pricing, empowering you to choose the best power plan for your home or business.

We also create valuable resources to help you understand deregulation and make the most out of your energy choices. Here are some popular guides:

•       Guide to choosing an energy provider
•       No-deposit electricity
•       Energy switching guide
•       A mover’s guide
•       Trusted provider reviews
•       General energy resources

We aim to make it easy to match with the best provider in your area. Our shopping experience only takes three steps:

• Enter your ZIP code. You’ll find a list of available plans and providers in your area.
• Find the right plan. Filter your search to find the best plan for your needs. You can also read each plan’s Electricity Facts Label for details on early termination fees, renewable energy incentives, and more.
• Enjoy your new service. Once you choose your power plan, you can sign up online or call the number on the screen. Your new provider will activate your service after you sign up.

Texas’ deregulated energy market also includes businesses. Choose Energy’s commercial electricity experts can help business owners shop for energy plans tailored to their company’s needs. Head to our business electricity page to connect with our energy experts and secure a custom energy plan for your business.

The main advantage of deregulation is the ability to choose your energy provider. Dozens of providers operate across Texas and other states to sell competitive electricity plans directly to consumers. Choose Energy partners with a handful of trusted providers we have personally screened for reliability and quality customer service. Here are a few of our top energy providers in Texas:

• TXU Energy
• Gexa Energy
• Frontier Utilities
• Reliant Energy
• TriEagle Energy
• Payless Power

Although you can choose your energy provider in deregulated areas, your utility company is based on your location. This company delivers electricity to your home or business and maintains the local electrical infrastructure. Your utility also restores power when there is an outage. If the power goes out in your area, contact your utility company – not your energy provider.

Customers in deregulated areas can enjoy a variety of plan options. Here are a few popular plans you’ll find on our marketplace:

• Fixed-rate plans: With fixed-rate plans, you lock in your energy rate for the duration of the contract — usually lasting 12, 24, or 36 months. This plan is a great option if you value predictable energy bills. However, you may receive an early termination fee (ETF) if you want to end your contract early.
• Variable-rate plans: A variable rate changes every month depending on the wholesale price of electricity. You can save money during low energy demand, but you may have to pay more when demand spikes, which is common in the summer. Variable-rate plans let you avoid an ETF because they don’t require a contract.
• No-deposit plans: Energy providers check your credit when you sign up. If you don’t meet their credit threshold, they may require you to pay a deposit before activating your service. However, if you have low credit, you can sign up for a no-deposit or prepaid plan to skip the deposit. Under this type of plan, you preload your account and top it off as needed throughout the month.
• Renewable energy plans: Texas is a nationwide leader in renewable energy sources like wind and solar power. Due to this, all Texas electricity plans contain a percentage of renewable energy. However, some providers, such as Gexa Energy, are dedicated to 100% renewable energy plans. Consider a renewable energy plan if you want to reassess your home’s carbon footprint.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) regulates energy companies to ensure fair pricing and reliable service. If you need to report an issue with your provider, here’s how to get in contact with the PUCT:

Do you need to contact the PUCT to report an issue? Here are three contact methods:

• Mail: 1701 N. Congress Avenue // P.O. Box 13326 // Austin, TX 78711-3326
• Phone: 512-936-7000
• Email: customer@puc.texas.gov

Regardless of which electricity company supplies power to your home, your local utility will deliver the electricity. The PUCT also regulates utility companies. If you experience a power outage, contact your utility.

How do I choose electricity in Texas?

Independent marketplaces, like Choose Energy, help consumers understand their options and choose the best plan. You can filter between contract length, rate type, no deposit, and other features to find the best fit. When deciding which plan to choose, consider the features most important for your home’s electricity, such as price, flexibility, or stability.

Who has the cheapest electricity rate in Texas?

Electricity rates fluctuate often in Texas’ deregulated energy market. At the time of writing, some of the cheapest electricity providers on our marketplace are Gexa Energy, 4Change Energy, and Frontier Utilities. Keep in mind that rates are location-specific. Enter your ZIP code to learn your city’s cheapest providers.

What type of energy plan is best?

The best plan is relative to what each customer needs for their home or business. Our energy experts generally recommend fixed-rate plans because they have a set rate that protects customers from price spikes. However, the best plan for you will depend on your living situation and energy habits.