All-Inclusive Pricing

Are you tired of electricity bills that leave you shocked and confused?

Frustrated by rates that seem low but lead to unexpectedly high costs?

It’s time to discover the power of transparent pricing with an all-inclusive approach to comparing electricity plans.

What is All-Inclusive Pricing?

All-inclusive pricing shows you the total amount you’ll pay on your bill, including:

Energy charges
Delivery fees
Monthly base charges
All applicable taxes and fees

No hidden costs. No surprises. Transparent pricing that lets you see the true cost of your electricity.

Why All-Inclusive Pricing Matters

In Texas, advertised electricity rates often don’t tell the whole story. Some marketplaces show prices that exclude the following:

Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) charges
Monthly base charges
Minimum usage fees
Other miscellaneous fees

This can lead to shockingly high bills that are much higher than expected. All-inclusive pricing eliminates these surprises, giving you the full picture upfront.

Bundled vs. Unbundled Rates

All electricity plans in Texas include two main cost components:

Energy Charges: The cost of the electricity you use.
Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) Charges: The cost of delivering that electricity to your home.

It’s important to note that all plans levy the same TDU charges, which your Retail Electric Provider (REP) bills on behalf of your local TDU. However, REPs present these charges in two different ways:

Bundled Plans: The REP combines energy and TDU charges into a single, combined rate.
Unbundled Plans: The REP keeps energy charges separate and “passes through” the TDU charges without markup.

Whether a plan is bundled or unbundled is less important than understanding and comparing its total cost.

The Advantage of All-Inclusive Pricing

Whether a plan is bundled or unbundled, all-inclusive pricing shows you the total cost you’ll pay. Here’s why this matters:

Transparency: See the full cost upfront—no surprises on your bill.
Easy Comparisons: Compare plans side-by-side based on total cost, not just partial charges.
No Hidden Fees: All applicable charges are displayed, eliminating surprises on your bill.

Introducing Live Link™

Unlock Personalized Electricity Savings

Live Link™ revolutionizes how you shop for electricity, using your real usage data to find truly personalized savings.

Reveal Hidden Savings with Your Actual Energy Data

Live Link™ taps directly into your energy usage history, uncovering cost-saving opportunities that other comparison tools often miss. By analyzing your unique consumption patterns, Live Link™ ensures you find the most cost-effective plan for your specific needs.

Three Simple Steps to Smarter Savings

Connect Your Data: Securely link your current electricity account
Explore Tailored Options: Review plans customized to your actual usage
Switch with Ease: Choose your ideal plan and complete your switch online

It’s that simple. No calculators, no guesswork, no headaches.

The Live Link™ Advantage

See precise savings based on your real energy use
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Switch to your best-fit plan with just a few clicks

Experience the power of personalized electricity shopping. Let Live Link™ guide you to your most cost-effective plan today.

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Why Texans Trust ComparePower

15+ Years of Experience: We’ve helped millions of fellow Texans save on their electricity
4.9/5 Star Rating: From customers who ordered their electricity plan on ComparePower
Fast, Secure Checkout: Get your best electricity plan in about 10 minutes

Real Customer Experiences

With millions of Texans served and 72,601+ 5-star reviews, we help you skip gimmicks and secure the most value.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

How to Report a Power Outage

Report a Power Outage in Your Area

To report a power outage in Texas, contact your local utility company’s dedicated outage reporting number.

Oncor: 1-888-313-4747
CenterPoint Energy: 1-800-332-7143
AEP Texas: 1-866-223-8508
Texas-New Mexico Power: 1-888-866-7456
Lubbock Power & Light: 1-806-775-2509

How to Report a Power Outage

Power outages can be frustrating and disruptive, but reporting them promptly helps utility companies respond faster and restore electricity quicker.

In Texas, the process for reporting outages depends on your local Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU). Here’s how to report a power outage in Texas.

Identify Your Utility Provider

The first step is to identify your local TDU. In Texas, the major utility companies include:

Oncor Electric Delivery (North, Central, and West Texas)
CenterPoint Energy (Houston area)
AEP Texas (West, South, and parts of Central Texas)
Texas-New Mexico Power (Various parts of Texas)
Lubbock Power & Light (Lubbock area)

Your TDU is responsible for the power lines and infrastructure that deliver electricity to your home.

This differs from your retail electric provider, the company you pay for your electricity usage.

Common Causes of Power Outages

Outages can occur due to various reasons, including:

Severe weather (storms, high winds)
Trees falling on power lines
Vehicle accidents hitting utility poles
Animals causing disruptions in electric system facilities
Scheduled maintenance by power companies

Gather Essential Information

Before reporting, have the following information ready:

The exact service address affected by the outage
When the outage started
Any relevant details (e.g., heard a loud noise, saw a flash, downed power lines, etc.)

Report the Outage

Once you’ve identified your TDU, you can report the outage through several methods:

Phone or Online: Call your TDU’s dedicated outage reporting number. Most TDUs also have online outage reporting forms on their websites.

Oncor

Outage Reporting: Oncor Storm Center
Customer Service Phone: 1-888-313-4747

CenterPoint Energy

Outage Reporting: CenterPoint Energy Electric Outage Center
Customer Service Phone: 1-800-332-7143

AEP Texas

Outage Reporting: AEP Texas Outages
Customer Service Phone: 1-866-223-8508

Texas-New Mexico Power

Outage Reporting: TNMP Outage Center
Customer Service Phone: 1-888-866-7456

Lubbock Power & Light

Outage Reporting: LP&L Outages
Customer Service Phone: 806-775-2509

Utilize Outage Tools and Resources

Check outage status: Input your address on the provider’s website to track the progress of repair efforts.
Access outage maps: Use interactive maps to understand the scale of an outage and monitor restoration progress.
Understand restoration times: Utility companies prioritize repairs based on severity and impact.
Subscribe to outage alerts: Sign up for text or email alerts to receive real-time updates.

Report Safety Hazards and Emergencies

For immediate dangers like downed power lines or electrical fires, call 911 first, then contact your utility provider.
For gas leaks, evacuate the area immediately, call 911, and then contact your utility provider.
Stay at least 35 feet away from downed power lines.

Stay Safe During an Outage

Use flashlights instead of candles to prevent fire hazards
Keep electronic devices unplugged
Keep refrigerator doors closed to preserve food
Use generators only in well-ventilated outdoor areas

Tips for Effective Reporting

Report both complete and intermittent power issues promptly
Provide accurate location details for faster response
Communicate clearly with customer service representatives using all available channels (phone, online, text)
If an outage persists after being marked as resolved, report it again

Be Prepared for Future Outages

Keep emergency supplies on hand
Consider purchasing a backup generator
Have a plan for medical equipment that requires electricity
Keep your TDU’s contact information easily accessible

Stay Prepared and Informed

Power outages can happen anytime, but being prepared and knowing how to report them quickly can make a big difference.

Follow these steps and stay informed through your TDU’s resources.

Remember, your safety always comes first during any electrical emergency.

When in doubt, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at your utility company.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

The Texas Interconnection

Powering the Lone Star State

In the vast landscape of American power grids, Texas stands alone – quite literally.

The Lone Star State boasts its power grid, the Texas Interconnection or the ERCOT grid. It serves as a testament to the state’s independent spirit and unique approach to energy management.

What is the Texas Interconnection?

Imagine an electrical island pulsing with energy, serving over 27 million Texans across 75% of the state’s expansive territory.

This is the Texas Interconnection, a marvel of engineering and policy that sets Texas apart from the rest of the nation.

But what makes this grid so unique, and why does it matter to the average Texan flipping on their lights or cranking up their air conditioning?

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), the grid’s vigilant guardian, is at the heart of this electrical ecosystem.

ERCOT orchestrates a delicate dance of supply and demand, ensuring that power flows smoothly to homes and businesses across the state. It’s a massive undertaking, managing:

Over 46,500 miles of transmission lines
More than 710 power generation units
A synchronized frequency of 60 Hz
Limited connections to other grids via direct current (DC) ties

The Birth of an Electrical Island

The story of the Texas Interconnection is deeply rooted in the state’s history.

Born from the cooperation of utilities during World War II to power defense industries, it evolved into a symbol of Texas’s desire for energy independence.

By keeping the grid-primarily within state borders, Texas deftly sidestepped federal regulations, charting its course in the complex world of energy policy.

A Unique Energy Marketplace

This independence has fostered a unique, competitive energy market where power generators vie for the opportunity to light up Texas.

It’s a system that has brought both benefits and challenges:

Benefits

Driven innovation in energy production and distribution
Helped keep electricity prices competitive
Facilitated Texas’s leadership in wind power generation

Challenges

Grid isolation can be a liability during extreme events
Balancing supply and demand in a rapidly growing state
Integrating renewable energy sources into the grid

Weathering the Storm: Resilience and Adaptation

The winter storm of February 2021 brought the challenges of grid isolation into sharp focus, as widespread outages left millions shivering in the dark.

This wake-up call prompted soul-searching and spurred efforts to enhance the grid’s resilience.

ERCOT’s Toolkit: Managing a Modern Grid

ERCOT has developed a sophisticated approach to manage the grid’s complexities:

Advanced forecasting techniques
Demand response programs
Transmission constraints management
Market mechanisms for optimal congestion management
Exploration of new technologies like improved dynamic ratings for transmission lines

The Future of the Texas Interconnection

Looking ahead, the Texas Interconnection faces both exciting opportunities and daunting challenges:

Rapid state growth pushing the grid to its limits
Discussions about new “generation hubs”
Potential for operating at higher voltage levels (765-kV system)
Continued expansion of renewable energy sources, including solar power

The Texas Interconnection is more than just wires and transformers – it reflects Texas itself.

Bold, independent, and unafraid to do things differently, it embodies the spirit of innovation that has long defined the Lone Star State.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

Texas Electricity Transmission and Distribution

Electricity Transmission and Distribution in Texas

Texas, the second-largest state in the United States by area and population, has a unique and complex electricity system.

The state’s power grid is largely isolated from the rest of the country, and its approach to electricity transmission and distribution has been shaped by its history, geography, and regulatory environment.

The Texas Interconnection

Unlike most of the United States, which is part of the Eastern or Western Interconnection, most of Texas operates on its own power grid, the Texas Interconnection.

This grid is managed by the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which oversees about 90% of the state’s electric load.

Key Features of the Texas Interconnection

Covers approximately 75% of Texas’ land area
Serves 26 million customers
Operates as an energy-only market
Not subject to federal regulation by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC)

Key Entities and Structure

Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT)

ERCOT manages the flow of electric power to more than 26 million Texas customers, covering about 90% of the state’s electric load. It operates the grid and ensures the reliability and adequacy of the electricity supply.

Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)

The Public Utility Commission of Texas PUCT regulates the state’s electric, telecommunication, and water and sewer utilities, implements respective legislation, and offers customer assistance in resolving consumer complaints.

Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDUs)

Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDUs) own and operate the equipment and facilities that transmit and distribute electricity. The PUCT regulates them and requires them to provide non-discriminatory access to the grid.

TDSPs include municipally-owned utilities, electric cooperatives, and other entities that must register with ERCOT.

Retail Electricity Providers (REPs)

Retail Electricity Providers (REPs) sell electricity plans to consumers, while TDSPs deliver the electricity. Consumers can choose their REP, but their location determines the TDSP.

Transmission Infrastructure

The transmission system in Texas consists of high-voltage power lines that transport electricity from power plants to local distribution systems. As of 2021, Texas had over 46,500 miles of transmission lines.

Major Transmission and Distribution Utilities

Oncor Electric Delivery: Serves most of the Dallas/Fort Worth metropolitan area
CenterPoint Energy: Covers the Houston area
AEP Texas: Operate in different regions within Texas
Texas-New Mexico Power Company (TNMP): Serves various parts of Texas
Lubbock Power & Light (LP&L): Serves the Lubbock area

Deregulation and the Competitive Market

In 1999, Texas passed Senate Bill 7, which deregulated much of the state’s electricity market—this separated power generation, transmission/distribution, and retail services.

Key aspects of deregulation:

Power generation companies compete to sell electricity on the wholesale market
Transmission and distribution remain regulated as natural monopolies
Retail Electric Providers (REPs) compete to sell electricity to consumers
Consumers in deregulated areas can choose their electricity provider

Challenges and Future Outlook

Grid Resilience

The February 2021 winter storm exposed vulnerabilities in Texas’ grid, leading to widespread outages.

This has prompted discussions about improving grid resilience and weatherization standards.

Recent weather events have highlighted the need for a more resilient grid, particularly in areas like Houston, where there are discussions about hardening the grid and potentially burying power lines to protect against storm damage.

Renewable Integration

Texas leads the nation in wind power generation and rapidly expands its solar capacity.

Integrating these variable renewable sources presents both opportunities and challenges for grid management.

The increasing reliance on wind and solar power, which are intermittent by nature, has raised concerns about grid stability and the need for enhanced transmission capacity to handle fluctuations in power generation.

Increasing Demand

The state’s growing population and economy and the rise of energy-intensive industries like data centers and cryptocurrency mining have significantly increased electricity demand. Adopting electric vehicles (EVs) also contributes to this rising demand.

Infrastructure Investments

Significant investments in transmission infrastructure are necessary to address these challenges.

Entities like Electric Transmission Texas (ETT) and Cross Texas Transmission are actively working to enhance the grid’s capacity and reliability. ETT, a joint venture between American Electric Power (AEP) and Berkshire Hathaway Energy, focuses on increasing transmission capacity and integrating renewable energy sources.

Cross Texas Transmission aims to relieve congestion, lower electricity costs, and improve grid reliability through advanced technology and infrastructure.

Grid Modernization

Modernizing the grid with smart meters, advanced sensors, and improved data analytics is underway to enhance efficiency and reliability.

This includes addressing potential bottlenecks and ensuring that renewable energy can be efficiently integrated into the grid.

Regulatory and Operational Framework

Certification and Rates

TDUs must be certified by ERCOT to operate in the retail market. The PUCT sets the rates for transmission and distribution services to ensure fairness and non-discriminatory access.

Powering the Future

Texas’s electricity transmission and distribution system is unique, complex, and evolving.

As the state grows and its energy mix changes, ongoing investments, and innovations in grid infrastructure will be crucial to ensure reliable and efficient power delivery to all Texans.

The future of Texas’ electricity system will depend on successfully balancing the integration of renewable energy, meeting increasing demand, and maintaining grid resilience in the face of extreme weather events.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

Texas Power Generation

Powering the Lone Star State

Texas, known for its vast landscapes and independent spirit, is also a powerhouse for electricity generation.

From traditional fossil fuels to cutting-edge renewable technologies, the Lone Star State’s energy mix is as diverse as its population.

Let’s dive into Texas power generation and explore how it keeps the lights on for millions of Texans.

Ten Largest Power Plants by Generation in Texas

Plant	Primary Energy Source	Operating Company	Generation (MWh)
South Texas Project	Nuclear	STP Nuclear Operating Co	21,919,885
Comanche Peak	Nuclear	Luminant Generation Company LLC	19,687,070
W A Parish	Coal	NRG Texas Power LLC	13,122,023
Oak Grove (TX)	Coal	Luminant Generation Company LLC	12,618,672
Martin Lake	Coal	Luminant Generation Company LLC	12,592,122
Fayette Power Project	Coal	Lower Colorado River Authority	9,758,501
Forney Energy Center	Natural Gas	LaFrontera Holdings LLC	9,316,915
Limestone	Coal	NRG Texas Power LLC	7,256,258
Panda Temple Power Station	Natural Gas	PPG – O&M Panda Temple Power LLC	7,030,172
Deer Park Energy Center	Natural Gas	Deer Park Energy Center	6,949,621

The data is sourced from the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Form EIA-923, 2022 Power Plant Operations Report, and predecessor forms. For more detailed information, visit EIA’s website.

The Energy Mix

Texas’s power generation landscape truly reflects its “everything’s bigger” motto.

Here’s a breakdown of the state’s energy sources.

Natural Gas

Accounts for nearly half of Texas’s electricity production
Prized for its flexibility in meeting fluctuating demand
Contributes to Texas’s relatively low electricity rates

Wind Power

Texas leads the nation in wind power capacity
West Texas wind farms harness the state’s vast open spaces
Represents a significant portion of the state’s renewable energy portfolio

Coal

Once dominant, now playing a more minor role
It still contributes to base load power needs
Facing challenges due to environmental concerns and economic factors

Nuclear

Two major plants: South Texas Project and Comanche Peak
It provides a constant, low-carbon energy source
Complements variable renewable energy sources

Solar

Rapidly growing sector in Texas’s energy mix
Capitalizes on the state’s abundant sunshine
Benefiting from falling technology costs and increased investment

Challenges and Opportunities

While Texas boasts an impressive power generation portfolio, it’s not without its challenges:

Aging Infrastructure: Many coal and nuclear plants require significant upgrades
Renewable Integration: Balancing variable wind and solar output with grid demands
Weather Extremes: The 2021 winter storm exposed vulnerabilities in the system

However, these challenges also present opportunities:

Energy Storage Advancements: Potential solutions for renewable energy variability
Smart Grid Technologies: Enhancing overall system efficiency and reliability
Infrastructure Investments: Modernizing the grid for improved resilience

The ERCOT Factor: Texas’s Unique Grid

The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) is central to understanding Texas power generation.

As the manager of the state’s independent electrical grid, ERCOT plays a crucial role in:

Maintaining a competitive wholesale electricity market
Encouraging efficiency and innovation in power generation
Balancing supply and demand to ensure reliability

Looking to the Future

As Texas continues to lead in energy innovation, the power generation sector is poised for exciting developments:

Increased integration of renewable energy sources
Advancements in energy storage technologies
Continued focus on grid resilience and reliability

From the windswept plains of West Texas to the cutting-edge natural gas plants, the Lone Star State continues to push the boundaries of energy production.

This diverse and dynamic approach keeps the lights on today and illuminates a path toward a more sustainable and reliable energy future.

As challenges arise, Texas adapts, innovates, and overcomes – ensuring that the power of progress will continue to flow for generations to come.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

Electricity Reliability

Understanding Electricity Reliability

When it comes to choosing an electricity provider, many Texans worry about the reliability of their service.

Will there be frequent outages? Will the power stay consistent?

Here’s the crucial fact – your electricity’s reliability isn’t affected by your choice of provider.

This article explains why, helping you make informed decisions without compromising your peace of mind.

Texas Electricity Market

The structure of the Texas electricity market ensures that reliability is maintained by entities other than your Retail Electric Provider (REP). Here’s how it works:

Generation: Power plants produce electricity.
Transmission and Distribution: Utilities deliver electricity to homes and businesses.
Retail Electric Providers (REPs): Companies that sell electricity to consumers.

Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDSPs)

TDSPs, also known as utilities, are responsible for the infrastructure that delivers electricity to your home. This includes power lines, transformers, and substations. Their role is to ensure electricity reaches you safely and consistently, regardless of which REP you choose.

Texas has five major TDSPs: Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, TNMP, and LP&L. These companies operate under strict regulations set by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT).

Regulation and Oversight: The PUCT oversees these TDSPs to ensure they meet reliability standards. This means that your utility, not your REP, manages any outages or maintenance issues. When you experience a power outage, the TDSP addresses the problem.

The Role of ERCOT and PUCT

ERCOT manages the flow of electricity to over 26 million Texas customers, ensuring the grid operates reliably and efficiently. The PUCT enforces regulations to maintain reliability and protect consumers.

ERCOT’s Responsibilities: Balances supply and demand on the grid, coordinating with TDSPs to ensure a steady flow of electricity. This central coordination is crucial for preventing outages and maintaining reliability across the state.

PUCT’s Standards: Establishes standards and procedures that TDSPs must follow, ensuring consistent and reliable service. Regular audits and inspections by the PUCT help maintain the integrity of the electricity grid.

How This Affects Your Choice of Provider

Since reliability is ensured by TDSPs and overseen by ERCOT and the PUCT, you can focus on what truly matters when choosing an electricity provider:

Compare Rates: Use tools like ComparePower to find the best rates and plans for your usage patterns.
Consider Plan Types: Evaluate whether a fixed-rate, variable-rate, or indexed plan best suits your needs.
Check Customer Reviews: Look for feedback on customer service and billing practices.
Review Contract Terms: Understand contract lengths, early termination fees, and additional terms.
Look for Additional Benefits: Some REPs offer renewable energy options, smart home integration, or usage monitoring tools.

Make Informed Choices with Confidence

Your electricity supply’s reliability is managed by TDSPs, ERCOT, and the PUCT, not your REP.

This means you can confidently choose an electricity provider based on pricing, customer service, and additional benefits, knowing your service will remain reliable.

Understanding this fundamental aspect of the Texas electricity market allows you to make better choices, save money, and enjoy uninterrupted service.

For more information on navigating the Texas electricity market and finding the best plan for your needs, check out Unscrew Texas and take control of your energy costs today.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

Live Link™

What is Live Link™?

Live Link™ taps into your real energy usage to find the perfect electricity plan for your home.

No estimates, no guessing—just personalized plans based on how much energy you actually use.

Try Live Link™ Free →

How Live Link™ Simplifies Your Electric Bill

Say goodbye to confusing rates and hidden fees.

Live Link™ uses your energy data to show plans matching your unique consumption patterns.

No more guessing: Your real usage is automatically pulled, so you don’t have to dig through old bills.
Personalized recommendations: Every plan is customized to your actual usage—not generic estimates.
Seasonal adjustments: Your A/C usage in the summer and heating in the winter are factored in to find the best plan for every season.
Full cost clarity: Get the true cost of each plan, not just rates based on ideal conditions.

With Live Link™, you get a complete view of your electricity costs without the hassle.

Experience Live Link™ →

The Live Link™ Advantage

Think of Live Link™ as your personal energy expert. It analyzes your real usage data to find the best plan—no more overpaying for electricity.

Accurate: See plans that match your actual usage, not averages or estimates.
Simple: Just a click, and you’re done. It’s easier than ordering a pizza.
Savings: Personalized plans can save you hundreds each year.

Stop overpaying. Try Live Link™ Free →

How It Works

It’s quick and easy:

Connect your usage data: With your approval, Live Link™ securely pulls your past electricity usage from your provider.
Compare personalized plans: Instantly see plans designed for your usage, so you know exactly what you’ll pay.
Choose and switch: Pick your best plan and switch online in minutes.

No calculations. No guesswork. Just the best plan for your home.

Use Live Link™ Now →

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. We employ industry-standard encryption and security protocols to protect your data. We do not sell or share your personal information with third parties, and our data handling practices comply with all relevant privacy regulations.

Live Link™ retrieves your actual historical usage data directly from your utility company. This is the same data used for billing purposes, ensuring high accuracy for our comparisons and recommendations.

Live Link™ can only retrieve usage data for current residents.

For new move-ins:

Use our kWh Calculator to estimate your average usage.
Choose a plan with a 60-day satisfaction guarantee.
After accumulating 12 months of usage data, return to shop with Live Link™ for more accurate comparisons.

📈 Estimate Your Home kWh Usage

Live Link™ is not currently available for business customers. However, our business representatives can assist you in acquiring or estimating your usage data and finding the best plan for your commercial needs. Contact our business services team for personalized assistance with your business electricity requirements.

We recommend using Live Link™ annually or when considering a plan change. Regular checks ensure you’re on the most cost-effective plan as market rates fluctuate. Additionally, reassess your plan if you experience significant changes in energy consumption patterns.

Your Best Plan is a Click Away

Live Link™ gives you real, usage-based comparisons so you can find the best energy plan for your home in minutes.

Don’t leave money on the table. Join us in our mission to Unscrew Texas, one electric bill at a time.

Get Unscrewed – Try Live Link™ →

Still Not Convinced?

Check out our guide on advertised electricity rates to learn how they can be misleading and why understanding the true cost of your energy plan is important.

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

Get help finding your best plan.

Call us at 855-441-3030 Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., or Saturday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Call a Power Advisor →

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Electricity Shopping Marketplaces in the U.S

The Power of Choice

The deregulation of electricity markets in the United States has ushered in a new era of energy choice, transforming how consumers interact with their electricity providers.

This shift has given rise to electricity shopping marketplaces, digital platforms that empower consumers by offering a transparent and competitive environment to compare and select electricity plans from various retail energy providers (REPs).

These marketplaces have revolutionized the energy landscape, giving consumers unprecedented control over their electricity choices and fostering a more customer-centric energy market.

TLDR: Electricity shopping marketplaces are transforming the U.S. energy market by giving consumers more choices, fostering competition, and promoting transparency, leading to innovation, savings, and a customer-centric energy future as technology advances and more states deregulate.

The Evolution of Electricity Markets

Traditionally, consumers were indebted to their local utility companies, often facing limited options and high prices.

However, the deregulation of electricity markets in several states has broken up monopolistic utility structures, introduced competition, and enabled consumers to choose from a wide array of REPs.

States like Texas, Pennsylvania, and New York have been at the forefront of this movement. The Public Utility Commission of Texas reports that deregulated areas often enjoy more competitive pricing and better customer service than regulated areas.

Electricity Shopping Marketplaces

Electricity shopping marketplaces have emerged as the ultimate tool for navigating this new era of energy choice.

In states with deregulated energy markets, consumer energy choice programs offer online platforms that empower consumers to easily compare and select electricity plans tailored to their specific requirements and priorities.

These platforms promote informed decision-making and give the energy consumer control by aggregating offers from various REPs and presenting consumers with a clear, side-by-side comparison of plans based on price, contract terms, renewable energy content, customer reviews, etc.

Leading electricity marketplaces across the United States:

Power to Choose (Texas)
ComparePower (Texas)
PAPowerSwitch (Pennsylvania)
NYS Power to Choose (New York)
PlugIn Illinois (Illinois)
EnergyChoice Ohio (Ohio)
Maryland Electric Choice (Maryland)

Benefits of Electricity Shopping Marketplaces

Electricity shopping marketplaces offer a range of features and benefits that empower consumers:

Comprehensive Plan Comparison: Users can easily compare different electricity plans based on price, contract length, renewable energy content, and other factors, ensuring transparency and helping consumers make informed choices.

Rate Transparency: Marketplaces present electricity rates, including any additional fees, helping consumers avoid hidden costs and understand the accurate price of their energy.

Customer Reviews and Ratings: Many platforms feature customer reviews and ratings, providing valuable insights into the reliability and customer service quality of different REPs.

Easy Switching Process: Marketplaces often simplify switching providers, allowing consumers to sign up for a new plan directly through the platform and even offering reminders for contract renewals to prevent consumers from being automatically rolled to higher rates.

Cost Savings: By comparing plans and choosing the most competitive option, consumers can significantly reduce their electricity bills, saving hundreds of dollars annually.

Promotion of Renewable Energy: Many marketplaces highlight plans incorporating renewable energy sources, enabling environmentally conscious consumers to support clean energy and reduce their carbon footprint.

Market Competition Enhancement: These marketplaces enhance market competition by facilitating easy comparisons and promoting transparency, leading to better services and lower consumer prices.

Looking Ahead

Despite the numerous benefits, electricity shopping marketplaces face challenges.

The complexity of electricity plans, with various pricing structures, contract terms, and additional fees, can make it challenging for consumers to compare plans effectively.

Additionally, some providers engage in misleading marketing practices, such as hidden fees, promotional rates, and minimum usage fees.

However, the future of electricity shopping marketplaces is promising.

Technological advancements, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, can enhance these platforms by improving plan recommendations and providing personalized insights based on individual usage patterns.

Integration with smart home technologies can further empower consumers by offering real-time energy usage tracking and optimization suggestions.

As more states embrace deregulation and consumers become increasingly savvy about their energy choices, electricity shopping marketplaces will play a pivotal role in shaping a more competitive, transparent, and customer-centric energy market.

The Eastern Interconnection

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

The Backbone of America’s Power Grid

The Eastern Interconnection is a cornerstone of North America’s electricity grid, ensuring reliable power delivery to a vast region from the Rocky Mountains to the Atlantic Coast.

Serving over 200 million people across 39 U.S. states, eastern Canada, and parts of northern Mexico, the Eastern Interconnection plays a crucial role in maintaining the stability and efficiency of the electric power system.

Structure and Operations

The Eastern Interconnection is one of North America’s two major alternating-current (AC) power grids, the other being the Western Interconnection.

This grid operates at a synchronized frequency of 60 Hz and is managed by various Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs) and Independent System Operators (ISOs), ensuring coordinated and efficient electricity distribution.

Key Components

Generation: The Eastern Interconnection includes various power generation sources, such as coal, natural gas, nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar power. This diversity helps in balancing supply and demand, enhancing grid stability.
Transmission: The grid consists of high-voltage transmission lines that connect power plants to substations and distribution networks. These lines operate up to 765 kV voltages to minimize long-term energy losses.
Distribution: Electricity is lowered to lower voltages at substations before being delivered to homes and businesses through local distribution networks.

Unique Operational Characteristics

Coordination and Balancing

The Eastern Interconnection is managed by a network of RTOs and ISOs, including PJM Interconnection, Midcontinent ISO (MISO), and the New York ISO (NYISO).

These entities ensure real-time balancing of electricity supply and demand, coordinate the operation of transmission lines, and facilitate competitive electricity markets.

Interconnections and DC Ties

The Eastern Interconnection is connected to other grids through high-voltage direct current (HVDC) ties, allowing controlled energy flows between interconnections while maintaining independent AC frequencies.

This setup enhances grid reliability and flexibility by enabling power exchanges during peak demand or emergencies.

Challenges Facing the Eastern Interconnection

Aging Infrastructure

Much of the infrastructure within the Eastern Interconnection is decades old and requires significant investment in modernization.

Upgrading transmission lines, substations, and other critical components is essential to maintaining reliability and supporting future growth in electricity demand.

Renewable Energy Integration

The growing share of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar, presents opportunities and challenges.

These intermittent sources can vary widely in output, necessitating advanced grid management and energy storage solutions to ensure a stable electricity supply.

Climate Change and Extreme Weather

Climate change poses significant risks to the Eastern Interconnection, including more frequent and severe weather events such as hurricanes, heatwaves, and ice storms.

Enhancing grid resilience and developing adaptive strategies are crucial to mitigating these risks and ensuring uninterrupted power delivery.

Future Prospects and Innovations

Grid Modernization

Significant investments are being made in grid modernization to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the Eastern Interconnection.

This includes deploying smart grid technologies, advanced sensors, and automated systems to improve grid visibility and control.

Advanced Market Mechanisms

Innovative market mechanisms, such as dynamic pricing and transactive energy, are being developed to enhance market efficiency and provide additional value to consumers.

These mechanisms can incentivize demand response and integrate distributed energy resources (DERs).

Energy Storage Integration

Energy storage systems, such as large-scale batteries, are becoming increasingly important for managing the variability of renewable energy sources.

These systems provide additional flexibility and stability, helping to balance supply and demand more effectively.

Looking Forward

The Eastern Interconnection is a vital infrastructure supporting reliable electricity delivery to millions across a vast and diverse region.

Significant investments and innovations are essential as it faces challenges such as aging infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and climate change impacts.

The Western Interconnection

Author:

Enri Zhulati

Editor:

Ryan Hatch

Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment to editorial integrity.

U.S. Power Grid

The Western Interconnection is a vital component of North America’s power grid, serving a vast region that includes 14 U.S. states, two Canadian provinces, and a portion of Mexico.

This extensive network ensures reliable electricity delivery to over 80 million people, supporting various climates, geographies, and energy resources.

Structure of the Western Interconnection

The Western Interconnection spans approximately 1.8 million square miles, from the Rockies to the Pacific Coast and from Canada to Baja California, Mexico.

It is one of North America’s two major synchronous AC power grids, operating at a synchronized frequency of 60 Hz.

Key Components

Generation
The Western Interconnection boasts a diverse energy mix, including hydroelectric, coal, natural gas, nuclear, wind, and solar power. This diversity helps balance the grid and manage fluctuations in supply and demand.

Transmission
The grid includes about 136,000 miles of high-voltage transmission lines to connect remote generating resources with population centers.

These long lines are critical for transporting electricity across vast distances, primarily from hydroelectric plants in the Pacific Northwest to the high-demand areas in California.

Distribution
Electricity is distributed from substations, which are stepped down to lower voltages suitable for local delivery to homes, businesses, and industries.

Management and Coordination

The Western Interconnection is managed by the Western Electricity Coordinating Council (WECC), formed in 2002.

WECC ensures the reliability and security of the bulk power system across its vast service area.

Its responsibilities include compliance monitoring, reliability assessments, and coordinating transmission planning among its members.

Unique Operational Characteristics

Long-Distance Transmission

One of the distinctive features of the Western Interconnection is its reliance on long-distance, high-voltage transmission lines.

These lines are necessary due to the geographic distribution of energy resources and population centers.

For instance, hydroelectric power from the Pacific Northwest is often transmitted to California, especially during summer periods of high demand.

Diverse Resource Portfolio

The Western Interconnection’s energy mix is heavily influenced by its geographic diversity.

Hydroelectric power is significant in the Pacific Northwest, while solar and wind resources are abundant in the southwestern states.

This diversity necessitates advanced grid management techniques to effectively integrate variable renewable energy sources.

Challenges Facing the Western Interconnection

Aging Infrastructure

Much of the Western Interconnection’s infrastructure is aging and requires substantial investment in modernization.

Upgrading transmission lines, substations, and other critical components is essential to maintaining reliability and accommodating future growth.

Renewable Energy Integration

The increasing share of renewable energy sources like wind and solar presents opportunities and challenges.

These intermittent sources can vary widely in output, requiring advanced grid management and energy storage solutions to ensure a stable electricity supply.

Environmental and Land Use Issues

The Western Interconnection covers many public and protected lands, including national parks, Native American tribal lands, and critical habitats.

Due to environmental and cultural considerations, planning and building new transmission infrastructure in these areas can be challenging.

Climate Change Impacts

Climate change poses significant risks, including frequent and severe wildfires, which can damage infrastructure and disrupt electricity delivery.

Enhancing grid resilience and developing adaptive strategies are crucial to mitigating these risks.

Future Prospects and Innovations

Grid Modernization

Investments in grid modernization are underway to enhance the reliability and efficiency of the Western Interconnection.

This includes deploying smart grid technologies, advanced sensors, and automated systems to improve grid visibility and control.

Energy Storage Integration

Energy storage systems, such as large-scale batteries, are becoming increasingly important for managing the variability of renewable energy sources.

These systems provide additional flexibility and stability, helping to balance supply and demand.

Regional Market Development

Efforts are being made to develop a single West-wide electricity market to enhance efficiency and reliability.

Such a market would facilitate better resource sharing and coordination across the Western Interconnection.

Looking Head

The Western Interconnection is a critical infrastructure supporting the reliable delivery of electricity to millions across a vast and diverse region.

Significant investments and innovations are essential as it faces aging infrastructure, renewable energy integration, and climate change impacts.

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