Category: Switching

Everything you need to know about switching electricity providers and energy plans in Texas.

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The Texas Guide to Switching Providers

Feel trapped by expensive electricity rates? You’re not alone. Many Texans struggle with high utility bills and confusing contracts. But you have the power to make a change for the better.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process of switching electric companies in Texas without interruptions in service. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to potential savings and peace of mind.

Key Takeaways

  • Switching providers when your contract ends is straightforward and can save you money.
  • Switching is easy – the new provider handles everything, including notifying your old one.
  • Compare rates using your usage history to find a plan that fits your needs and budget.
  • Fixed-rate plans can offer stability even as rates rise, starting at just 12.30¢/kWh vs. the 14.51 ¢/kWh average rate in Texas.
Jeannette Zimmerman

I have been comparing rates over the past 6 months with Compare Power. Finally, the rates were right and it was time to lock it in and switch. The switch request was SO SIMPLE, made a lot of sense. Do you want to start the switch this week or specific date? Click here to confirm switch to this provider. Confirm email and DL number, submit. Easy as 1-2-3!

Jeannette Zimmerman

How to Switch Electric Companies

Switching electric companies in Texas is straightforward when you time it right. Follow these steps near your contract end date to seamlessly transition to a new provider and unlock potential savings. You have the power to choose.

Step-by-Step Guide to Switching

Total Time: 10 minutes

  1. Know Where You Stand Now

    Enter Your Zip Code

    Before anything else, take stock of your current electric plan by looking at recent bills and checking your usage on Smart Meter Texas. This insight will help you pick the right new plan.

  2. Compare Your Options

    electricity usage

    Shop for new plans within 14 days before your contract ends. This critical timing lets you avoid early termination fees. Use ComparePower to contrast rates and find possible savings.

  3. Make the Switch

    Compare Electric Plans

    On or before your end date, sign up for your new electric company online or by phone. Enjoy a seamless transition as they handle everything, including notifying your old provider.

  4. The Power is Yours

    Choose a New Plan

    Congratulations—you did it! Now, you can look forward to potential savings and better service. You can check your new account online to monitor usage and make payments.

Supply:

  • Your Address
  • Drivers License
  • Social Security Number

Tools:

  • A desktop, laptop, tablet or mobile phone with internet access.

Materials: ComparePower is all you need to switch electricity providers in Texas.

This 2-minute video explains what you need to know to switch with confidence ⤵️

S. Kirkland 1

I needed to shop for a new energy company and stumbled upon this website. I was able to provide some data and they shared several options for new energy companies. Once I decided which company I wanted the process to switch over was very easy. I will use this site in the future should I need to switch energy companies again.

S. Kirkland

Shopping Considerations

Once you’re familiar with the steps, let’s dive into some shopping considerations to help you make an informed decision:

Renewable Energy Options

Texas offers renewable, green energy plans for those supporting clean energy. Explore options that align with your environmental values.

Avoiding Pitfalls

  • Hidden Fees: Watch out for hidden fees and tiered-rate structures.
  • Understanding ETFs: Know the conditions for early termination fees.
  • Utilizing Online Marketplaces: Platforms like ComparePower simplify the process.

Next up: Save with Usage-Based Shopping

Learn how shopping with your kWh usage can help you save money on your energy bill in Texas.

Switch Electric Companies with ComparePower

Ready to make the switch? ComparePower is here to help. With our comparison tool, you can find the best electricity provider. Don’t wait. Start saving on your energy bills today.

Switch electric companies today.

Common Questions About Switching

Switching electric companies in Texas? You likely have questions. From understanding contract terms to exploring renewable options, we’ve gathered the most common inquiries to guide you through the process. Here’s everything you need to know to make an informed switch.

Is it safe to switch electricity companies?

You might wonder, is switching electric companies safe? The answer is yes. The Public Utility Commission of Texas regulates the process of protecting your rights. Plus, there’s no interruption in service when you switch.

What happens if I don’t switch electricity providers?

If you don’t switch at the end of your contract, your current company will transfer you to a holdover rate. Holdover rates are variable and change each month. They are usually expensive, and you could face a high bill before you know it.

How long does it take to switch electric companies?

Depending on the provider, the switch usually takes a few days to a week. Service is not interrupted during the transition.

Will I need new equipment or wiring when I switch?

Switching providers don’t require changes to your home’s wiring or equipment. The transition is handled electronically.

Can I switch back to my old provider if I’m not satisfied?

Yes, you have three days to switch back without penalty. Beyond that timeframe, you have to be mindful of contract terms, early termination fees, or waiting periods that may apply.

How can I avoid early termination fees when switching?

You can avoid early termination fees by switching within 14 days of your contract’s end date or by choosing a plan without such fees.

Do I need to notify my current provider when I switch?

No, your new provider will handle the transition, including notifying your current provider.

What if I’m moving to a new address in Texas?

If you’re moving, you can choose a new provider for your new address.

How do I know if a plan’s rate is a good deal?

Compare the plan’s rate with your historical usage, consider additional fees, and compare it to other available plans using tools like ComparePower.

Can I switch providers if I have a prepaid or month-to-month plan?

Yes, prepaid and month-to-month plans typically allow you to switch providers at any time without penalties.

What happens if I switch providers and then my rates increase?

If you have a fixed-rate plan, your rate won’t change during the contract term. If you have a variable-rate plan, rates may fluctuate. Understanding the plan’s terms can help you anticipate potential changes.

ComparePower 57500 5-Star Ratings Reviews

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.

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.

Mailchimp in contract

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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

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

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

Find Your New Plan Today