What is Power to Choose?
Power to Choose is the official electricity marketplace managed by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC).
On Power to Choose, you can compare rates, contract lengths, and plan types from Texas Retail Electricity Providers (REPs).
However, while it centralizes many options, the platform has some limitations that can make finding the right plan a challenge.
Here’s a closer look at how Power to Choose works—and why Compare Power is often a better solution for your electricity needs.
Key Takeaways
- Power to Choose is the official website for comparing electricity rates and energy plans in Texas.
- Power to Choose displays limited usage rates, leading to unexpected costs if your energy use varies.
- A marketplace that compares plans based on energy habits can help you avoid hidden fees and find your best plan.
Table of Contents
How Power to Choose Works
Created after Texas’s deregulation law in 1999, Power to Choose was designed to allow Texans to compare electricity plans from different providers.
This choice fosters competition, lowers costs, and improves service for Texans in deregulated areas.
Power to Choose lets you enter your ZIP code and view a list of electricity plans from different REPs.
While it seems straightforward, there are a few key areas where Power to Choose falls short:
- Only Standard Usage Levels Displayed: Rates for set usage points—500, 1000, and 2000 kWh—may not match your actual usage. If your energy needs differ, this can lead to surprising costs.
- Complex Pricing Models: Many plans include tiered rates, base charges, or bill credits that only apply at specific usage levels, making it challenging to see the true cost of a plan.
- Decision Overload: With hundreds of options, Power to Choose can feel overwhelming. The sheer number of choices without enough guidance can make it hard to feel confident in your decision.
- Potentially Misleading Rates: Some REPs design plans to appear affordable at the 500, 1000, or 2000 kWh levels, but costs can skyrocket if your usage fluctuates.
These challenges have led many Texans to seek alternatives like Compare Power, simplifying choosing by focusing on actual usage and offering transparent, personalized rates.
Go deeper: What are Advertised Rates? How to Avoid Gimmicky Pricing and Find Your Best Plan →
Power to Choose Alternative
Compare Power is the best alternative to Power to Choose in Texas.
Several alternative electricity marketplaces have emerged to address the limitations of Power to Choose for Texas consumers.
As the most trusted marketplace in Texas, we address the common pitfalls of Power to Choose, helping you confidently select the right plan without surprises.
Here’s what makes Compare Power the top choice for Texans:
- Personalized Rates Based on Your Actual Usage
Enter your actual or estimated usage to see what each plan will cost you. This removes the guesswork and gives you a realistic monthly bill estimate tailored to your home. - All-Inclusive Pricing with No Surprises
You can see the full cost of each plan, including all applicable fees, base charges, and TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) delivery fees. This transparency allows you to compare plans side-by-side without needing to interpret fine print. - Only Trusted Providers Listed
Every provider is vetted to ensure they meet our reliability and customer satisfaction. When you choose a plan through Compare Power, you’re choosing from trusted providers who prioritize transparency and service quality. - Easy-to-Use Interface with Live Link™
Designed with simplicity in mind. With tools like Live Link™, you can easily see which plans fit your usage and budget, maximizing your savings with minimal effort. - Dedicated Customer Support
Need help? Our Texas-based energy experts are here to guide you every step of the way, whether you have questions about plan options, pricing, or signing up. Support is just a call or click away.
Go deeper: Live Link™ – Find Your Best Electricity Plan Instantly →
Power to Choose Reviews
Texans have mixed opinions about Power to Choose. Here’s what many have experienced:
- Centralized Platform, But Complex Options—While the site is convenient for viewing many plans, users often feel overwhelmed by the number of choices and the complex pricing models.
- Limited Usage Flexibility—The set usage levels of 500, 1000, and 2000 kWh can be misleading. Texans have reported unexpected costs when their usage doesn’t match these points.
- Hidden Fees and Gimmicks—Some providers structure rates to appear lower at the specified usage levels but become expensive when actual usage varies. Many users have found this confusing and frustrating.
For Texans looking for an alternative, Compare Power provides clarity, transparency, and support that Power to Choose often lacks.
You can skip the fine print and see all-inclusive prices based on your home’s usage data.
Go deeper: What’s Your Energy Plan Really Costing You?
Power to Choose Energy Plans
If you’re choosing a plan on Power to Choose, here are some standard options you’ll encounter:
- Fixed-Rate Plans—Lock in a consistent rate per kWh for the length of your contract, offering stability in your monthly bills.
- Variable-Rate Plans—Rates fluctuate monthly based on market conditions, which can mean savings when rates drop but potential spikes when demand is high.
- Prepaid Plans—allow you to pay upfront for electricity as you go, often without a credit check, making them flexible options for those who want to avoid deposits.
- Time-of-Use Plans—Rates vary by time of day, allowing you to save by using electricity during off-peak hours.
- Green Energy Plans—These plans use renewable energy sources like wind or solar to reduce your environmental footprint while powering your home.
While Power to Choose provides a centralized way to view these options, remember that advertised rates are based on specific usage points—500, 1000, and 2000 kWh—which might not reflect your actual usage.
This can lead to unexpected costs if your energy habits don’t align perfectly with these benchmarks.
Pro Tip: If you’re choosing a plan on Power to Choose, always review the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for each option. The EFL outlines all fees, rates, and terms, giving you a complete picture of the pricing structure and helping you avoid surprises.
On Compare Power, you don’t have to worry about the fine print. Using your energy data, you can find the lowest-cost plan based on your energy habits—saving you time, money, and hassle.
The cheapest energy plan today starts at 11.60¢/kWh—20% lower than the Texas average of 15.30 ¢/kWh.
Understanding Your Electricity Bill
Electricity bills in Texas can include several charges beyond the rate per kWh. Here’s a quick overview of the primary fees you might encounter:
- Energy Charge—The cost of the electricity you consume, calculated per kWh.
- Base Charge—A set monthly fee from some providers, regardless of usage.
- TDU Delivery Charge—The state regulates transmission and distribution utilities (TDUs) fees for delivering electricity to your home, which are included in your bill.
- Minimum Usage Fee—Some plans add an extra fee if your usage falls below a certain monthly threshold.
On Compare Power, these costs are included so you can make a fully informed choice without hidden charges.
Go deeper: Why Pay More for a Big-name Electricity Company?
Power to Choose for Business
Power to Choose doesn’t list business electricity rates, but we do.
We simplify the process, secure custom pricing, and help your business save.
Commercial energy plans can be riddled with complex terms and conditions.
We understand this, so we make it our mission to simplify the process for you.
Our team of experts will break down the fine print and answer any questions you have, ensuring you fully understand your chosen plan before you sign up.
We’ve helped countless businesses find the most cost-effective energy plans, and we’re confident we can do the same for you.
Texas Electricity Companies
Discover the top electricity providers in Texas.
| Energy Companies | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| 4Change Energy | 888-250-2215 |
| Amigo Energy | 866-993-4445 |
| Cirro Energy | 866-965-5660 |
| Constellation | 877-390-0411 |
| Direct Energy | 866-285-4447 |
| Discount Power | 866-996-1740 |
| Flagship Power | 866-747-7111 |
| Frontier Utilities | 866-280-3131 |
| Gexa Energy | 888-688-8460 |
| Green Mountain | 866-983-4770 |
| Just Energy | 866-985-2820 |
| New Power Texas | 888-316-0697 |
| Payless Power | 855-854-8490 |
| Pulse Power | 888-317-1431 |
| Reliant | 866-983-4620 |
| Rhythm Energy | 877-825-9940 |
| TXU Energy | 866-370-2440 |
| Tara Energy | 877-599-2580 |
Power to Choose FAQs
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Is Powertochoose org legit?
Yes, Power to Choose is a legitimate website operated by the Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT), a state government agency responsible for regulating the Texas electricity market. The PUCT created Power to Choose to provide Texas residents with an unbiased, transparent platform to compare electricity plans from various providers.
The information on Power to Choose, including plan details, pricing, and provider information, is submitted directly by the electricity companies and is subject to PUCT oversight. Providers must follow strict rules and regulations when listing their plans on the website to ensure accuracy and fairness.
However, it’s essential to understand that Power to Choose is a marketplace, not a regulatory body. While the PUCT strives to ensure the information on the website is accurate and up-to-date, it’s still the consumer’s responsibility to thoroughly review plan details, contract terms, and provider reputation before signing up for an electricity plan.
If you have concerns about a specific provider or plan listed on Power to Choose, contact the PUCT’s Customer Protection Division for assistance or file a complaint.
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Is there a better alternative to power to choose when comparing electricity plans in Texas?
While Power to Choose is a valuable resource for Texas residents to compare electricity plans, it has some limitations. The website only provides a basic comparison of plans based on price, contract length, and renewable energy options, but it doesn’t consider a consumer’s specific electricity usage patterns. This means the plans listed on Power to Choose might not always be the most cost-effective or suitable for your household.
Compare Power, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive and personalized approach to comparing electricity plans. As an unaffiliated, independent marketplace, Compare Power provides several advantages over Power to Choose:
Usage-based recommendations: Compare Power analyzes your historical electricity usage data to provide tailored recommendations based on your unique energy needs. This ensures you find the most affordable plan that fits your consumption habits, saves money, and prevents unexpected high bills.
Transparent pricing: Compare Power displays all fees, charges, and contract terms upfront, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. There are no hidden costs or surprises down the line.
Expert support: If you need assistance, Compare Power’s local energy experts can help you find the right electricity plan for your home. They can answer your questions, provide personalized recommendations, and help you make an informed decision.
Time-saving tools: With Compare Power’s user-friendly platform, you can quickly filter and compare plans from multiple providers in one place. The streamlined enrollment process allows you to sign up for your chosen plan in just a few clicks.
Business electricity rates: Unlike Power to Choose, which only caters to residential consumers, Compare Power also helps Texas businesses compare and select electricity plans tailored to their needs.
While Power to Choose remains a helpful starting point for exploring electricity plans in Texas, Compare Power offers a more advanced, user-centric alternative to help you find the best plan for your specific needs, save money, and avoid the pitfalls of choosing an unsuitable plan based on limited information.
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I selected an electricity plan through Power to Choose. How do I pay my bill?
If you selected an electricity plan through Power to Choose, you must pay your bill directly to the provider you signed up with, not to Power to Choose. Your provider will send you monthly bills with instructions on how to pay, which may include online, phone, mail, or in-person options. Pay your bill by the due date to avoid late fees or service interruptions.
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Does Power to Choose list electricity rates for businesses?
No, the Power to Choose website, operated by the Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT), does not list business electricity rates. The website is designed to help residential consumers compare and select electricity plans from various providers in Texas.
However, businesses in Texas can still take advantage of the deregulated electricity market and shop for competitive rates from multiple providers. This is where Compare Power comes in.
Compare Power is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace that helps Texas businesses compare electricity rates from over 30 providers and find the right energy plan for their needs. Whether you have a small company with a monthly electricity bill under $1,000 or a large commercial facility with complex energy requirements, Compare Power has solutions tailored to your business.
For small businesses, Compare Power offers an online marketplace where you can instantly compare rates from multiple providers and enroll in a plan that fits your budget and energy usage. The process is simple and transparent and can be completed online in just a few minutes.
If you have a more significant business with higher energy consumption, Compare Power’s business energy experts can provide personalized assistance and custom rate quotes. They will analyze your company’s energy needs, help you navigate procurement projects, and even assist with industrial installation design and rebate opportunities.
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How does Power to Choose present electric rates, and is there a better way to compare them?
PowertoChoose.org, the official website of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), allows consumers to compare electricity rates from various providers in their area. The website lists plans with their corresponding rates, contract lengths, and renewable energy content.
However, there are a few limitations to how Power to Choose presents electric rates:
Limited usage pricing: Power to Choose only displays rates for three predefined usage points (500, 1000, and 2000 kWh per month), which may not accurately represent your household’s electricity consumption.
Lack of personalization: The rates shown on Power to Choose are generic and do not consider your specific usage patterns, which can significantly impact your monthly costs.
Potential for hidden fees: While Power to Choose displays the average price per kWh for each plan, it may not always include all the fees, charges, and other costs that can affect your final bill.
In contrast, Compare Power offers a more accurate and personalized approach to comparing electric rates:
Usage-based rates: Compare Power analyzes your historical electricity usage data to provide rate comparisons tailored to your specific consumption patterns. This ensures you get the most accurate estimate of your monthly costs under each available plan.
Transparent pricing: Compare Power displays all fees, charges, and contract terms upfront, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. There are no hidden costs or surprises down the line.
Apples-to-apples comparison: Compare Power’s advanced algorithm calculates the total monthly cost for each plan based on your usage data, allowing you to compare plans side-by-side and easily make an informed decision.
Personalized recommendations: If you need assistance quickly, Compare Power’s local energy experts can provide customized recommendations based on your usage patterns, budget, and preferences.
While Power to Choose is a good starting point for exploring electric rates in Texas, Compare Power provides a more comprehensive and accurate way to compare rates based on your unique needs.
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How do the electricity rates on Compare Power compare to those on Power to Choose?
Compare Power offers a more personalized and transparent approach to comparing plans. By analyzing your unique usage data and providing straightforward, upfront pricing information, we help you find the most cost-effective strategy for your specific needs.
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Are there any reliable reviews of PowertoChoose.org?
Finding comprehensive, unbiased reviews of the platform can be challenging.
Lack of quality control: Power to Choose doesn’t vet the electricity providers or plans listed on its site, meaning consumers may encounter offers from unreliable or poorly rated companies.
Confusing plan information: The Electricity Facts Labels (EFLs) and Terms of Service documents provided on Power to Choose can be challenging to understand, containing complex jargon, hidden fees, and unclear terms.
No personalization: Power to Choose doesn’t consider a consumer’s unique energy needs, usage patterns, or preferences, making it hard to find the most suitable plan for their household.
Limited customer feedback: While Power to Choose displays a complaint ratio for each provider, it lacks detailed information about customer experiences, making it difficult to gauge the quality of service each company offers.
In contrast, Compare Power offers a more user-friendly and reliable alternative to Power to Choose. Their platform provides:
– Personalized recommendations based on your actual energy usage
– Pre-screened providers with a proven track record of reliability and customer service
– Clear, transparent pricing with no hidden fees or confusing terms
– An easy-to-use interface with helpful tools and resources to guide your decision-making
– Exceptional customer support from local energy expertsWhile Power to Choose may seem like the go-to resource for comparing electricity plans in Texas, it’s crucial to be aware of its limitations and consider alternative platforms offering a more comprehensive, transparent, and user-focused approach.
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What’s the difference between Compare Power and Power to Choose?
Power to Choose is the state-run marketplace for electricity providers, but it only shows rates at set usage levels. Compare Power gives you more accurate pricing based on your usage and includes vetted providers, transparent rates, and expert support.
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Who has the cheapest electricity rates in Texas?
Let’s be clear – no single provider is always the cheapest in Texas.
While companies like Gexa Energy, Frontier Utilities, and 4Change Energy often advertise low rates, the most affordable option depends on your location, how much power you use, and when you’re shopping.
Don’t fall for the lowest advertised rate – compare plans using your actual usage to avoid getting burned.
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Who is the cheapest electricity company?
The truth about cheap electricity in Texas? It’s not about which company but which plan matches your usage.
While providers like Pulse Power, Chariot Energy, and Energy Texas often compete with low rates, your zip code, usage patterns, and plan type determine your actual costs.
Don’t chase the lowest advertised rate – compare plans using your real usage data to find genuine savings.
Beyond Power to Choose
Power to Choose means well, but it often leaves Texans confused.
Don’t spend hours decoding complex electricity offers. There’s a simpler way.
Find Clarity on Your Best Energy Plan in Minutes, Not Hours
We’re on a mission to Unscrew Texas from confusing electricity bills.
Get personalized recommendations based on your energy habits and see transparent, all-inclusive pricing upfront so you can confidently shop and take control of your energy costs.
Ready to see your savings? Enter your ZIP code to start your personalized comparison.
Why Texans Trust ComparePower
- Transparent Pricing: No hidden fees or guesswork—just clear, all-inclusive rates.
- 15+ Years Serving Texas: We’ve helped millions of fellow Texans save on their electricity
- 5-Star Customer Service: With over 75,396 verified reviews, we’re known for our dedication to helping Texans save.
- Fast, Secure Sign-Up: Find your ideal plan and enroll in minutes
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.
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