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Get Help Finding Your Best Plan

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Public Utility Commission of Texas

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Understanding the Texas (PUC) and Your Utility Rights

When your electricity bill arrives with unexpected charges or customer service leaves you feeling more confused than before, it’s easy to wonder where to turn.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas, or PUC, is more than just a state agency—it’s here to make sure Texans get fair treatment in the utility market.

From handling consumer complaints to enforcing industry standards, the PUC exists to keep electricity providers accountable.

In this guide, we’ll explain the PUC’s functions, how to file a complaint, and how Compare Power can help you confidently navigate Texas’s energy market.

TL;DR: The PUC Texas regulates our utilities, ensuring we get fair-quality services. If you have a Texas PUC complaint, you can file a complaint, and the PUC will investigate any wrongdoing by your electricity company.

What is the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC)?

The Public Utility Commission (PUC) may sound like a complicated government entity.

Yet, its mission is simple: to ensure that Texans receive essential utility services—electricity, telecommunications, and water—at fair prices.

Established in 1975, the PUC was initially tasked with overseeing utility monopolies in Texas.

Utility providers held exclusive control over regions back then, which meant customers had no choice but to accept the provider in their area.

The PUC monitored these monopolies, ensuring they didn’t exploit their customers with unfair rates.

However, as the energy landscape changed, so did the PUC’s role.

How Deregulation Changed Texas’s Utility Market

In 2002, Texas lawmakers passed deregulation legislation, transforming the electricity market by allowing consumer choice and introducing competition among providers.

With deregulation, Texans were given the power to shop for electricity plans that fit their needs and budgets, spurring providers to offer better rates and services.

Since then, the PUC has become a watchdog in the deregulated market, enforcing fair practices and ensuring providers comply with industry standards.

The PUC also oversees the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT), which manages the state’s electricity grid for over 26 million Texans.

The PUC ensures that Texas’s electricity market operates smoothly, fairly, and reliably.

The PUC and Your Electricity Plan

As a Texas consumer, the PUC indirectly influences your electricity plan options by overseeing the marketplace and holding providers accountable for fair practices.

Here’s how the PUC impacts your electric utility choice:

Monitoring Providers: The PUC monitors energy providers, ensuring they follow regulations and deliver reliable services.
Overseeing ERCOT: The PUC manages ERCOT to help ensure electricity is delivered safely and efficiently across Texas.
Protecting Consumer Rights: If a provider doesn’t uphold their end of the contract, the PUC steps in to help consumers resolve disputes.

Essentially, the PUC is your advocate, ensuring that your electricity plan and provider meet Texas standards.

How to File a Complaint with the PUC

If you’re dissatisfied with your electricity provider or believe they’ve violated your rights, the PUC is there to help.

Here’s a straightforward guide on how to file a complaint:

Step 1: Try to Resolve with Your Provider

Before involving the PUC, explaining your issue directly to your provider is a good idea.

Customer service can resolve many problems, especially if it’s a billing or service-related question.

Step 2: File an Informal Complaint

If you can’t resolve your issue with the provider, file an informal complaint with the PUC. You can do this online or by calling their customer service.

Once your complaint is submitted, the PUC will investigate by gathering evidence and reviewing the details of your case.

They’ll then present this information to your provider to encourage a fair resolution.

Step 3: Consider a Formal Complaint

If your issue remains unresolved, you can file a formal complaint, though this process is more involved and resembles a court case.

The PUC recommends consulting with an attorney for formal complaints, which can be time-consuming and require legal support.

When to Cut Ties: Sometimes, if you’re unsatisfied with the provider’s response and the issue persists, it may be best to switch providers altogether.

Understanding Your Utility Rights as a Texan

As a Texan, you have rights that protect you from unfair practices by your utility providers. Here are some key rights to be aware of:

Right to Clear Information: Providers must give you clear information about rates, terms, and conditions, often outlined in the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for each plan.
Right to Fair Treatment: Your provider should treat you fairly and cannot discriminate based on income, race, or age.
Right to Switch: In Texas’s deregulated market, you can switch providers if you are unsatisfied with your current plan or service.

You can seek resolution through the above complaint process if your provider violates these rights.

How You Can Simplify Your Electricity Shopping

Navigating Texas’s electricity market can be overwhelming.

With so many plans and providers, it’s easy to feel lost or end up with a plan that doesn’t meet your needs.

Here’s how Compare Power helps make this process easier:

Personalized Comparisons: Enter your usage details to receive customized recommendations that show the true cost of each plan based on your consumption.
Transparent Pricing: Compare Power displays the total cost of each plan, including any base fees, so your bill is not surprising.
Trusted Providers: We screen all providers to ensure you’re selecting from reputable companies that comply with PUC standards.

Without Compare Power, you might waste time navigating confusing plan details or get stuck with an overpriced or poorly suited electricity plan.

Tips to Make the Most of Your Utility Rights

Understand Your EFL (Electricity Facts Label): Every plan has an EFL that details the rate structure, fees, and terms. Reviewing it can help you avoid unexpected costs.
Review Terms Regularly: Providers may change terms over time, especially if you’re on a variable-rate plan. Regularly reviewing your contract can help you stay aware of changes.
Stay Informed: Texas’s deregulated market offers you the power to choose but also requires staying informed. Platforms like Compare Power can simplify your search, but understanding your options is key.

Take Your Next Step with Compare Power

Now that you understand the PUC’s role and your rights as a consumer, you’re better equipped to navigate the electricity market confidently.

Whether you want to start electric service, switch providers, or find a cheaper plan, Compare Power makes the process easy and transparent.

The Power is Yours™

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.

How to Get Out of an Electricity Contract

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Stuck in an Electricity Contract?

Locked in an electricity contract that no longer works for you?

Breaking free might seem challenging, but the good news is you’ve got options.

We’ll guide you through the process and help you switch when it benefits you—or, if it doesn’t make sense right now, set a reminder for when it’s the right time to make a move.

Breaking Free from an Electricity Contract in Texas

Moving out? Cancel your contract without penalties.
Nearing the end of your contract? You can switch up to 14 days before it expires, avoiding fees.
Paying to break it? Sometimes, paying the early termination fee (ETF) now saves you more in the long run if you switch to a better plan.

Never Miss Your Contract End Date

Enter your email, zip code, and contract end date, and we’ll remind you when to switch, helping you avoid holdover rates or costly surprises.

Know Your Contract Terms

The first step to freeing yourself from a bad contract is understanding exactly what you’re dealing with. You need to know:

Contract End Date: When does it expire?
Cost per kWh: How much are you paying for your electricity?
Early Termination Fees (ETF): What will it cost you to get out early?

With this information, you can weigh your options: stay and suffer through high rates or switch to something better before it’s too late.

Compare Rates Instantly

Use Live Link™ to instantly pull your electricity usage and compare plans based on your household’s needs.

See if there’s something cheaper and switch today—without the guesswork.

Watch Out for Early Termination Fees (ETFs)

Breaking a contract before it ends can trigger an ETF, a penalty for leaving early.

Depending on your provider, these fees can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, but they’re not unavoidable.

If you plan your exit strategically, you can minimize or avoid these fees altogether.

Moving Out? Make a Smart Exit

Texas law allows you to cancel your electricity contract without penalties when moving to a new home.

This is your opportunity to find a plan that better fits your needs and budget.

Don’t let your current provider convince you to transfer your service.

Instead, take this opportunity to start fresh and secure a better deal.

How to Transfer an Electricity Account to a Family Member or Roommate (When Moving Out)

If you’re the current account holder and you’re moving out, and someone else (like a family member or roommate) is staying behind, here’s how to smoothly transfer the responsibility for the electricity account:

Notify Your Provider: The current account holder needs to call their electricity provider and inform them they are moving out. This step is essential to avoid ongoing charges and prevent early termination fees (ETFs) from being applied to the existing contract.
New Account Holder Signs Up with ComparePower: Instead of transferring the existing account, the new resident (family member, roommate, etc.) should sign up for a new electricity plan through ComparePower. During enrollment, they should select the “Move-in” order type—not “Switch.” This is a great opportunity for the new resident to shop for rates and potentially secure a lower bill, as electricity rates fluctuate regularly, and they may find a better deal that suits their usage needs.
To ensure no interruption in service, the move-in date should be on or before the current account holder’s move-out date.
Choose a Different Provider and Plan: It’s usually best for the new account holder to select a different plan and provider than the one the previous account holder had. By shopping around, the new resident can take advantage of current rates and avoid being locked into an old, potentially less favorable plan.

Important: If the new person selects a “Switch” order instead of a “Move-in,” the current account holder could be hit with an early termination fee (ETF). The “Move-in” option avoids penalties, as it’s treated as a fresh start for the new resident.

Following these steps will ensure a smooth transition, allow the new resident to find a better plan, and avoid unnecessary fees or service disruptions.

Should You Pay to Get Out Early?

Before you make any decisions, consider these factors:

ETF vs. savings: Compare the cost of the ETF to how much you’ll save by switching to a better plan. Sometimes, paying the fee could save you money. For a detailed guide on when it makes sense to pay your ETF and switch, check out our article on when to pay your ETF and switch electricity plans.
Service satisfaction: If your current provider’s service is unreliable or too expensive, the ETF might be a small price to pay for a better experience.
Rate changes: Have electricity rates dropped since you signed your contract? If so, switching early could save you significantly, even after paying the ETF.
Contract duration: If your contract is nearing its end, waiting it out might be smarter.
Are you moving soon? If you’re relocating, remember that you can cancel without penalty. Use this opportunity to find the right plan for your new home.

The Power to Break Free – ComparePower Is Here to Help

Navigating Texas’s electricity market can be complicated, but you don’t have to do it alone.

ComparePower makes it easy to compare plans, rates, and fees from various providers all in one place.

Whether you want to escape a bad contract or switch to a better plan, we’ve got your back.

Our platform gives you the power to make informed decisions, save money, and take control of your energy costs.

Next Steps – Time to Take Action

Enter your zip code: See personalized rates for your area.
Compare Plans: Get detailed information on rates, fees, and contract lengths.
Start Saving: Sign up online quickly and easily.

Stop feeling trapped—take control of your electricity choice today.

Find Your New Plan Today

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.

How to save money on your electric bills in 5 minutes (Video)

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Finding your cheapest electric rate, explained!

Looking to lower your electricity rate? This video shows you how to do it in record time with the help of ComparePower, a free service for electricity consumers in areas where they can choose who provides their energy.

Are you overpaying?

You probably know that comparing electric providers and signing up for a new rate plan can save you a lot of money.

But with all the tricky ads, teaser rates, and confusing terms, it’s hard to figure out which plan gives you the biggest bang for your buck.

Imagine taking these plans and boiling them down into the things that matter to you.

That’s what ComparePower helps you do. We provide a free resource for quickly finding your best electric rate without any headaches.

You can easily spend hours, even days, researching and comparing various electric providers when searching for your perfect plan, reading through the fine print, and decoding all the details.

With ComparePower, this process takes less than 10 minutes.

We’ve already done the homework, so you don’t have to make all the phone calls, wade through the gimmicks, and read countless documents searching for hidden fees.

We carefully evaluate the electric companies and find those with the best rates, terms, and customer feedback. We put their all-inclusive pricing into a simple format that’s easy to understand.

Know before you buy

Get an estimated monthly bill and total annual cost of ownership the second you enter your usage for every plan.

Updated 24 hours a day.

And after you’ve signed up, ComparePower keeps working.

We constantly lookout for changing rates, and we’ll alert you when it’s time to come back for a better deal.

Enter your zip code, compare your choices, and quickly land on your perfect plan.

Three steps to find your best plan

Enter your zip code, compare your options, and checkout confidence in your choice in as little as five minutes.

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.

Looking for your Best Sharyland Electricity Rate? Instantly compare providers and pricing.

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Deregulation is a game changer. Do you really want to gamble with the price you’ll pay for your electricity?

Are you rolling the dice to get a cheap electric rate in the newly deregulated Sharyland Service area?

Some Sharyland electricity service areas (specifically Brady, Celeste, Colorado City, and Stanton service areas) have been deregulated, leaving you with many questions…

“Do I have to go with a retail provider?”

“How can I find the cheapest electricity rates in my area?”

Deregulation does involve a learning curve. You will need to be more proactive and involved in your billing management because it’s not just one company anymore.

The saying goes, “When there’s only one dealer, it’s house rules.” That meant you got the bill, you paid it, and that’s all there was to it. A regulated industry meant Sharyland Utilities did the controlling. You had no say in anything, much less over how much you paid.

Deregulating certain Sharyland electricity service areas means a huge amount of upheaval at the beginning. At the same time, everybody gets sorted out, but ultimately, Sharyland electricity providers that provide a superior service at an excellent rate will rise while those who don’t won’t.

It also means that you have more power as a customer to choose:

a company based on how much green energy they use
a company that does not import power from outside the state or the company
a fixed-rate plan that sets the rate for a period of time regardless of how the industry is performing.
a short-term or month-to-month plan so you’re not locked in

In the end, Sharyland electricity will be available to all residents of the deregulated Sharyland electricity service area at a rate they can afford.

Here’s where you gamble with Sharyland electricity rates

Las Vegas, Nevada, is famous for its electricity: the energy, the excitement, the entertainment, and, naturally, the gambling. When you go to Vegas, you bring along a budget for gambling, ideally money you can afford to lose, and you rarely go as a special trip.

At home in Texas, “electricity” is something else entirely: it’s your favorite TV show, a home-cooked meal, and a cool home on a hot day. Are you okay gambling with your household budget every month? Now that you live in a Sharyland electricity service area that has been deregulated, you just might be doing that!

Up to now, you’ve been dealing with one company for all your power-generating and distribution needs. Under deregulation, Sharyland Utilities, while still around, is more in the back seat:

Problem with the electricity coming to your home? Call Sharyland Utilities.
Problem with the bill? Call your Retail Electric Provider (also called an “REP”).
Problem with the electricity inside your home? Well, that’s when you call an electrician.

Under the rules of deregulation, staying with Sharyland Utilities isn’t an option. If you fail to choose an REP, then one will be chosen for you. This is like you in a Las Vegas casino handing your cards over to the dealer for play. Maybe you’ll benefit… probably you won’t.

The available pool of default electric providers consists of seven candidates, ranging from Champion, who topped J D Power and Associates’ 2013 Customer Satisfaction poll for Texas energy providers (that’s the fourth year running!) down to TXU, currently down near the bottom and notorious for their high prices.

When you are assigned to a default REP, you’re put on a month-to-month plan, meaning that your rate will go up and down and you won’t actually know how much you’re being charged per kilowatt-hour until you open the bill. You won’t know if there is a charge for not having autopay on your account, for using telephone customer service, for paying by credit or debit card, all kinds of fun things could show up on the bill – “Ladies and gentlemen, faites vos jours!”

So, how do you find the cheapest electricity rates in the Sharyland electricity service area?

But how would you even go about finding the cheapest electricity rates in Brady, Celeste, Colorado City, Stanton, Mission, McAllen, etc?

You could get the list of default REPs.
You could take time out of your day to call each and every one
You could put up with high-pressure sales tactics, customer services agents still fresh on the job, and misleading information
You could hope that you’ve covered all the information you need to know
You could hope you’re making the right choice.

On the other hand, you could enter your zip code, make a couple of quick clicks, and immediately see the REPs that are available in your area and that will suit your needs.

You’ll have access to the Terms of Service and the Facts Label. Read them carefully and you’ll have all the information you need to know. Better yet, you’ll see clearly where you need to question them more closely (hint: look for phrases like “other fees or charges may apply”). The cheapest electricity rates in the Sharyland electricity service area will be a lot quicker to find if you know how to avoid wasting time calling those who simply will not suit.

Don’t let someone else make your play for you. Enter your zip code to get the pricing and plan details you need for a winning strategy.

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.

Understanding Texas Power

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Feeling overwhelmed by the Texas power market? You’re not alone.

With a myriad of Texas power companies to choose from, understanding Texas electricity deregulation can seem daunting.

But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be.

This comprehensive guide will demystify the Texas energy market. And the best part?

We’ll show you how ComparePower can make your electricity shopping experience as smooth as a Texas breeze.

TLDR: Texas boasts a deregulated electricity market, allowing consumers to choose their providers. ComparePower simplifies this choice by offering an easy platform to compare plans and rates.

Understanding Texas Electricity Deregulation

In 2002, Texas embarked on a bold journey and deregulated its electricity market.

This move shattered the monopoly of state-run utility companies and introduced competition among Texas power companies.

The goal? To give you, the consumer, the power to choose your electricity provider and lower prices.

The Guardians of the Texas Energy Market: PUC and ERCOT

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUC) and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) are the guardians of the Texas energy market.

The PUC regulates the companies, while ERCOT manages the flow of electric power to over 26 million Texas customers.

Decoding the Electricity Facts Label (EFL)

The Electricity Facts Label (EFL) is vital to understanding Texas power rates.

This document details a specific electricity plan, including the price per kilowatt-hour (kWh), contract term, power generation source, and any additional fees.

Making the Most of the EFL with ComparePower

At ComparePower, we make it easy to compare EFLs from different providers.

Our user-friendly platform allows you to compare plans on an apples-to-apples basis, ensuring you find the best fit for your needs.

Choosing the Right Electricity Plan

You can choose from fixed-rate, variable-rate, and indexed plans in Texas.

Each plan type has pros and cons; the best choice depends on your needs and circumstances.

Let ComparePower Guide You

Not sure which plan is right for you? ComparePower is here to help.

Our platform provides detailed information about each plan type, helping you make an informed decision.

The Power to Choose

In Texas, the power to choose your electricity provider is more than just a slogan—it’s a reality. And with ComparePower, it’s easier than ever.

ComparePower: Your Ally in the Texas Power Market

ComparePower is your ally in the Texas power market.

Our platform allows you to compare electricity plans from different providers in your area, ensuring you find the best plan for your needs and budget.

Don’t Navigate the Texas Energy Market Alone

Understanding Texas power doesn’t have to be complicated.

With ComparePower, you have a trusted partner to guide you through the Texas energy market.

Our platform allows you to compare electricity plans from different providers in your area, ensuring you find the best plan for your needs and budget.

Texas Deregulation FAQs

The number of electricity companies and energy plans in Texas is due to the state’s deregulated electricity market, which allows for competition among private companies.

This competition leads to various energy plans for customers to choose from, giving them the power to select the best plan for their needs and budget.

Choosing the right energy provider and plan in Texas can be a bit overwhelming, but there is a key factor you can consider to help you find the right plan for your home: your kWh usage.

Your kWh usage allows you to compare plans based on your specific energy usage needs.

When you understand your monthly usage, you can look for plans that offer rates that align with your usage patterns.

Furthermore, knowing your kWh usage will also enable you to compare plans from different providers and compare the costs of each plan on an equal footing.

Call your electric company if you have any issues with your electricity account or need to discuss billing options.

Call your utility company if there is a power outage affecting your neighborhood.

Oncor Electric Service, Centerpoint Energy, AEP, and Texas New Mexico Power service deregulated areas of Texas.

If just your home has power issues, call an electrician to take a look.

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.

Calculate the Real Cost of an Electricity Plan

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Understanding the Real Cost of Texas Electricity Plans

Have you ever looked at an electricity bill and wondered how they came up with that number?

Let’s cut through the complexity and understand precisely what you’re paying for.

The Basic Formula Behind Your Bill

Your electricity costs come down to a simple formula:

Monthly Bill = (Base Energy Rate × kWh Used) + Monthly Fee + (TDU Delivery Charge × kWh Used) + TDU Monthly Fee

Let’s break this down with a real example:

Base rate: 12.5¢ per kWh
Monthly service fee: $9.95
TDU Delivery: 4.5¢ per kWh
TDU monthly fee: $5.00

At 1,000 kWh, your bill would be:

Base energy: $125.00
Service fee: $9.95
Delivery: $45.00
TDU fee: $5.00
Total: $184.95

Where It Gets Interesting: Tiered Rates

Texas electricity plans often use tiered rates, like bulk pricing at the grocery store. Here’s what that might look like:

Using up to 500 kWh: 16.5¢ per kWh
501-1000 kWh: 12.5¢ per kWh
Over 1000 kWh: 11.5¢ per kWh

This is where simple calculators can mislead you – your actual rate changes based on how much power you use.

Hidden Costs That Can Surprise You

Watch out for:

Minimum usage fees (yes, charges for using too little electricity)
Time-of-use rates (paying more during peak hours)
Bill credits (getting money back at specific usage levels)
Seasonal rate changes

Three Steps to Compare Plans Accurately

Pull your past 12 months of bills – this is crucial
Note your highest and lowest usage months
Calculate costs at three levels:
- Your typical usage
- Summer peak (usually August)
- Winter/mild month (often April/May)

Ready to Master Your Electricity Costs?

If you want to take control of your electricity costs, you have three options:

Quick Comparison: Use our calculator to see plan costs at your usage levels. It’s fast and easy, but you’re relying on our math.
Do It Yourself: Follow our detailed spreadsheet tutorial to build your calculator. You’ll learn to handle tiered rates, credits, and seasonal changes. This is perfect if you want complete control and understanding.
Hybrid Approach: Use comparison tools for initial screening, then verify the best options with your calculations using our tutorial.

Want the Easy Button? Try Live Link™ – It’s Free

You can skip the calculations entirely. Live Link™ automatically pulls your real usage data and finds your best plan in minutes.

No spreadsheets, no manual calculations, no guesswork – connect your usage data and get personalized plan matches based on your actual consumption patterns.

Find Your Best Plan with Live Link™ →

Want to Go Deeper?

Our step-by-step spreadsheet tutorial shows you exactly how to build a custom calculator that handles:

Tiered rate calculations
TDU charges
Bill credits
Seasonal patterns
Annual cost projections

You’ll learn to create a tool to compare any electricity plan and track costs throughout the year.

The Bottom Line

Whether you use comparison tools or build your calculator, understanding how your electricity costs are calculated puts you in control.

You’ll spot better deals, avoid surprise charges, and make informed decisions about your electricity plan.

Electricity Cost FAQs

How to calculate the real cost of an electricity plan?

You can input your historical usage data to calculate the real cost of an electricity plan on ComparePower.

With your usage, you can compare plans based on the total annual cost and choose the best plan for your space.

ComparePower always shows you the total annual cost of each plan so you can make an informed decision about your electricity plan.

How can I find the cheapest electricity plan in Texas?

Finding the cheapest electricity plan is quick and easy with ComparePower.

Enter your monthly usage or estimate with our kWh calculator, and we’ll automatically show you the cheapest electricity plan for your home.

There is no need to search around through dozens of websites.

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.

Texas Power Plans: Fixed-Rate, Variable-rate, or Indexed

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Prior to 2002, electricity plans in Texas fell into one of three categories: the electric company’s way, the way the electric company wanted it, and whatever the electric company said.

After deregulation, the Public Utility Commission of Texas decided that it was too complicated a system.

Now Retail Electric Providers (REPs) have a few ways they structure their plans, each of which has different contract terms as well as its own advantages and disadvantages.

The number one rule in finding the right power plan is to understand your usage.

This 2-minute video that explains everything you need to know ⤵️

Super easy to shop and compare for power, especially if you know your monthly history and review a spreadsheet. I was not hassled with calls or handing out my personal information until I was ready to switch services.
Michael M. (TX, United States)

Fixed-rate

The simplest plan is the Fixed Rate energy plan – this means that for the entire term of your contract, which is typically a minimum of three months but can go up to 24 months, your rate will not change.

This is easy for you because there’s no real guesswork involved – you know what your rate is going to be when you wake up tomorrow and next week and next month right up until your contract term ends.

Not so great if the rates drop and you end up paying more than everybody else, though, and of course, you’re almost certain not to get the same rate if you re-up your contract. But you never know: you might luck into a lower rate.

Indexed rate

Then there’s the Indexed electric plan.

This one can be on a monthly or term basis with a rate that’s calculated by a formula (which they will gladly share with you) with the base being the public index or some other publicly available information.

Variable-rate

The third option is the Variable-rate plan, the one that surprises you every month.

Did it go up? Did it go down?

Even though the company generally isn’t obligated to notify you of any rate changes.

Historically the monthly variance hasn’t been excessive with Variable rate plans, so it may be a reasonable compromise between the locked-in stability of the Fixed Rate plan and the volatility of the Indexed plan.

Find out if a fixed rate or a variable rate is best for you.

Your choice, your power to choose

In Texas, the power to choose is yours and it depends, ultimately, on you: your personality, your preferences, and your spending habits.

If you’re a conservative type of person who likes to know exactly how much to budget each month, then the Fixed Rate is probably a better one for you.

If you’re a devil-may-care, put-the-pedal-to-the-metal type, go ahead and fly with the Indexed plan.

If you like a reasonable chance of savings with maybe not quite so much risk, then definitely you might like the Variable-rate plan.

Use ComparePower to research the available offers before you make your final selection – you can never go wrong with getting all the information you need for the best decision.

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.

10 Secrets To Lowering Average KWH

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Are you tired of high electricity bills?

What if there’s a way to lower your kWh usage, reduce energy consumption, and save money?

This guide will reveal ten secrets to reducing your kWh usage, specifically tailored for Texas residents. Plus, we’ll show you how ComparePower can make the process of finding the best electricity plan for your needs a breeze.

TL;DR: In this article, we’ll uncover ten secrets on using less kWh per day, the benefits of energy-efficient appliances, and various ways to save electricity.

Secret 1: Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

One of the most effective ways to lower your electricity bill is using energy-efficient appliances. These appliances, often marked with an ENERGY STAR rating, use less energy without compromising performance.

Secret 2: Control Your Temperature Smartly

In Texas, controlling your home’s temperature is crucial, especially during the hot summers. A programmable thermostat can help you manage your AC usage more effectively, leading to substantial savings.

Secret 3: Be Mindful of Your Appliance Usage

Your appliances continue to use energy even when they’re off but still plugged in. This is known as ‘phantom load.’ By turning off power strips when the connected devices are not in use, you can reduce this phantom load.

Secret 4: Optimize Your Water Heating

Lower the temperature of your water heater to around 120 degrees Fahrenheit to reduce energy consumption. Also, insulating your hot water pipes can prevent heat loss, saving both energy and money.

Secret 5: Cook Efficiently

Using a microwave instead of a conventional oven can save a significant amount of energy. If you do use an oven, avoid unnecessary preheating.

Secret 6: Make Smart Laundry Choices

Wash full loads and use cold water whenever possible. Consider air-drying clothes on a clothesline outside—after all, Texas has plenty of sunshine!

Secret 7: Choose Your Lighting Wisely

Maximize natural light during the day and turn off lights when not in use. Switch to energy-efficient LED bulbs, which use less energy and last longer than traditional incandescent bulbs.

Secret 8: Seal and Insulate Your Home

Proper insulation and sealing can prevent air leaks and keep your home comfortable, reducing the need for heating and cooling.

Secret 9: Use Energy-Efficient Windows

Energy-efficient windows can keep the heat out during the summer and keep the warmth in during the winter, reducing your need for heating and cooling.

Secret 10: Maintain Your HVAC System

Regular maintenance of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system can ensure it runs efficiently, reducing your energy consumption.

Take Control of Your Energy Consumption Today

Lowering kWh usage in Texas doesn’t have to be a daunting task.

By making a few changes in your daily habits and using ComparePower to find the best electricity plan for your needs, you can take control of your energy consumption.

So, what are you waiting for? Start saving energy, lower your electricity bill, and make the smart choice with ComparePower today!

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.

Switch Electricity Companies in Houston

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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.

Switch to Savings in Houston

Many people think switching electricity providers is more trouble than it’s worth.

You may have heard horror stories in the past, rumors of endless paperwork, having to call to disconnect, expensive switching fees, and unexpected power outages. This is not the case.

Switching providers is fast, easy, and painless

There’s no need to settle for a bad deal.

It’s easier than you think to find the right energy plan for you.

With the deregulation of Houston’s electricity market, many power companies in the greater metropolitan area compete for your business.

Still, even with all these choices available, you may find yourself stuck in a plan paying more than you care to, afraid it may be too much of a hassle to switch to a better option.

Compare rates in Houston and switch providers in minutes

If you’re dissatisfied with the amount you’re paying in energy costs every month, there are a few easy steps to find a utility plan that best suits your home or business.

Here’s what you need to know to compare electricity rates in Houston and switch providers today

Your new provider will handle everything, and there’s no “break-up” call with your old provider.

Switching electricity providers is fast and simple if you know what to do. The first information you need is that ComparePower will take care of everything.

Many fear the dreaded “break-up” phone call.

Who would want to take the time to explain to some customer service representative why you want to move to a better plan? Thankfully, this call is not necessary.

If you wish to switch electricity providers, you must place a simple, quick order here at ComparePower.

No phone calls are necessary.

Give basic personal information, provide the home or business address the plan is for, and select your electric service start date.

All you need to do after that is sit back and save.

Of course, finding the right plan in the first place can prove time-consuming.

That’s why ComparePower displays all the best plans with the best rates in a standard, easy-to-use platform. You won’t have to search through countless advertisements on dozens of different sites.

ComparePower is a free, unbiased service listing the best deals in your area by respected and trusted providers. You can easily organize and shop for energy according to your individual preferences.

Your power won’t go out

There’s no risk in switching providers. If you decide to leave your current energy company to find a better deal, you don’t need to worry about your power suddenly going out.

It’s against the law in Texas for a supplier to shut off a consumer’s electricity simply because they decided to switch.

State lawmakers included this safeguard when they worked to deregulate the energy market.

It’s also important to remember that the utility provider you purchase your power from is typically separate from the company that handles the distribution and transmission of the energy from the grid to your home or business.

The distribution and transmission utility has no stake in which supplier you take your business to.

If you use ComparePower to find your best electricity plan, there is no catch. There are no hidden fees. No bias.

ComparePower’s service ensures you’re free to shop around and compare rates with ease and peace of mind.

Your turn to switch electric companies

The average user of ComparePower saves more than 25% when switching their electricity plan. Finding a great energy plan should be free, fast, and simple – and now it finally is. Enter your zip code above to compare electricity rates in Houston quickly and easily.

Switching providers Houston FAQs

How to switch electricity companies in Houston?

Switching electricity providers in Houston on ComparePower is a simple process that allows customers to compare plans and providers in Houston, taking into account factors such as pricing, contract length, and any special promotions or discounts that may be available.

ComparePower’s unique feature is the ability to input historical usage data which allows customers to compare plans and providers based on their specific usage profile. The process starts with visiting ComparePower.com, entering your zip code for Houston, comparing plans and providers, inputting your usage data, choosing a new plan, signing up for it, and confirming the switch.

ComparePower.com will contact the current provider and handle all the details of the switch.

How do I find my kWh usage?

To get your kWh usage, you can check your electricity bills for the past 12 months, contact your electricity provider for a statement or report, and use a smart meter or an energy monitor to track usage in real time. Once you have your annual usage, you can use it to compare plans and providers on ComparePower.com to calculate the best energy plan according to your home’s specific usage profile.

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.