Moving in Texas: getting your electricity turned on
When you move within Texas, your plan doesn't automatically follow you. First check whether your new address is in a choice area. If it is, compare plans on Power to Choose and set a start date for move-in day. Then stop service at your old place so you don't pay for both.
Power to Choose is the state's official, free plan-comparison site run by the PUCT. We don't get paid when you click.
Check whether you can choose
Start with the new address, not the city name. Austin and San Antonio are city-utility areas. Many other cities can choose. The cities guide and the no-choice guide explain the split. Power to Choose is the address check.
Can you take your plan with you?
Sometimes a provider will serve the new address, and sometimes it will not. That depends on the provider and the utility at the new place. Ask them. Don't assume the old contract moves.
Move-in timing and fees
Same-day or priority connection can involve a utility fee. The amount is on that utility's tariff. We are not printing a number here. Read the tariff or ask the utility before you count on a fee.
A short checklist
Do these in order so you are not paying for two homes.
- Check the new address on Power to Choose.
- If you can choose, compare EFLs at your expected usage and set the start date for move-in day.
- Ask your current provider whether the old plan can move. If it can't, stop the old service.
- Write down the ESI ID if the bill or the provider shows it.
Related pages
Questions
Can I bring my plan to my new address?
Maybe. It depends on the provider and whether they serve the utility at the new address. Ask the provider. The plan does not follow you automatically.
How far ahead should I set up service?
Set it up before move-in day. PUCT rule 25.475 requires terms of service to say that establishing service with a provider may take up to seven business days: https://www.puc.texas.gov/agency/rulesnlaws/subrules/electric/25.475/25.475.pdf
What's an ESI ID?
An ESI ID is the Electric Service Identifier for the meter at an address. Your bill or the retail provider can help you find it. It ties the address to the right utility.
What if I'm moving from Austin or San Antonio?
Those cities are served by city-owned utilities, so the old service is not a retail plan you can carry. If the new address is in a choice area, you start fresh on Power to Choose. If it is also a city utility or co-op, you call that utility.
Will my deposit transfer?
Don't count on it. Deposits are between you and a provider. Ask both companies. The no-deposit guide explains how deposits are supposed to be described in the terms.
Power to Choose is the state's official, free plan-comparison site run by the PUCT. We don't get paid when you click.
Sources
- Power to ChooseChecked October 12, 2026
- PUCT substantive rule 25.475Checked October 12, 2026
- PUCT municipally owned utilities and co-ops FAQChecked October 12, 2026
- ERCOT retail market overview, November 2025Checked October 12, 2026