Texas electricity FAQ
These are straight answers to the common Texas electricity questions about switching, deposits, contracts, EFLs, and outages. They are not a sales pitch. When you want to look at actual plans, use Power to Choose, the state's free comparison site.
Power to Choose is the state's official, free plan-comparison site run by the PUCT. We don't get paid when you click.
Related pages
Questions
What does Texas electricity deregulation mean for my bill?
In a deregulated area you choose a retail electric provider for the energy, and your delivery utility still owns the wires. Comparing plans is how you avoid rolling onto a renewal product you didn't look at.
How do I compare electricity plans fairly?
Use the Electricity Facts Label at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh. Read the early termination fee, any minimum-usage rule, and any bill credit. The effective price matters more than the ad.
Will my power go out if I switch providers?
No. Switching your retail provider does not interrupt service. The delivery utility keeps operating the lines.
Where can I compare plans?
Power to Choose lists the plans for your ZIP. Our city pages explain which utility delivers the power. Start at https://www.powertochoose.org or the city list at /texas-cities.
Who do I call if the power is out?
Call the delivery utility, not the retail provider. The PUCT electricity help page also points to outage resources: https://www.puc.texas.gov/consumer-help/electricity/
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 electricity consumer helpChecked October 12, 2026
- ERCOT retail market overview, November 2025Checked October 12, 2026