Electricity Providers
How to Choose a Great Electricity Provider.
A Great Electricity Plan Starts with a Great Provider
Finding an electricity provider you can trust can feel overwhelming. At Texas Electricity Finder, we make it easy! We partner with providers who share our commitment to value, transparency, and exceptional service.Â
Our network of providers is a collection of the best in Texas! Whether they’re time-honored providers with a track record of reliability or innovative newcomers disrupting the industry with exceptional service and competitive offerings, we believe you’ll be just as impressed with them as we are.
- Some of our Great Providers. Click on the Logo to learn more.
Quick Disclaimer
Before we get started, we want to make it clear that Texas Electricity Finder is not affiliated with any providers. We are an independent electricity broker, and our purpose is to help you find the best electricity plan for YOU. We do partner with providers and promote the plans we believe customers could benefit from the most. We do not promote all providers, nor do we promote all plans from providers we partner with. We try not to steer you towards a particular provider or a particular plan. There is a wide variety of plan options to benefit a wide variety of customers, and our goal is to help you know and understand the different plans so you can make the most informed decision for your situation.
Table of Contents
Electricity Provider Basics
First, let’s review the basics of an electricity provider, such as what they are, how they came about, and their role in the energy market. Knowing these details at a high level will help you be an educated shopper when searching for the right electricity plan and a provider that aligns with your needs.
What is an Electricity Provider?
More formally known as Retail Electricity Providers (REPs), electricity providers are the companies you likely think of when you hear ‘electric company.’ This is because they are the customer-facing sector of the electricity market. They are the ones you see commercials for, the ones that send you your electricity bill each month, and the ones you interact with the most regarding electricity. But providers have a very specific role in a deregulated electricity market like the one here in Texas.Â
Electricity providers act as the middleman between you and the electricity market. They purchase electricity in bulk at wholesale prices and then create competitive plans with different rates and features to suit your needs. These plans are what you choose from when you shop for electricity.Â
How Electricity Providers Came About
In 1999, a new law (Senate Bill 7) was passed in Texas that changed the way electricity was delivered to customers. This law laid the groundwork for deregulating the Texas energy market, which officially became deregulated on January 1, 2002.
One of the most significant changes from Senate Bill 7 was the introduction of Retail Electricity Providers (REPs) to engage with customers.
This change brought competition and gave customers more choice. Customers could now shop around for electricity plans with different prices and features from competing REPs to find the best plan to fit their needs.
Electricity Providers role in a Deregulated Market
Think of the electricity grid like a complex delivery system. Generators produce the electricity, providers act as middlemen buying it wholesale and selling it to you in various plans, and suppliers deliver the electricity through the power lines. You can learn more about Texas’ deregulated energy market here.
In a deregulated market, providers act as middlemen between you and the electricity market. They purchase electricity wholesale, create competitive plans with various rates and features, manage customer relationships, and handle all aspects of billing, including collecting fees for the utility supplier who delivers the electricity through their infrastructure.
One of the key functions of electricity providers is to create competitive electricity plans. These plans are designed with various rates and features to attract your business. Understanding this role can help you appreciate the provider’s value to the market.
While the process of selecting the right plan may seem daunting, remember that you’re not alone. Texas Electricity Finder is here to support you. We aim to enhance your understanding of the different plans available, empowering you to make the most suitable choice for your needs.Â
Choosing a Provider
When choosing an electricity provider, it’s crucial to distinguish between plan features and provider features. Often, when customers shop for electricity, the most common features they shop for are specific to an electricity plan, not the provider.Â
Identifying the differences between plan features and provider features will help you find the right plan for your needs and a provider who aligns with your priorities.Â
Plan Features
- Here are some popular features customers look for when shopping for electricity. These features are specific to the plan and not the provider. Providers do create the plans, but if any of these features are essential to you, look beyond the provider and find the plans that align with the features you care about.Â
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- • Plan Modifiers
- • Contract Length
- • BudgetÂ
- • Green Energy
- • Solar Buyback
- • EV Plans
Plan Modifiers like 'Bill Credits' or 'Time of Use'
- These plans offer the potential for significant savings but depend on how much electricity you use and when you use it.
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- Time-of-Use Plans
- The price of electricity fluctuates throughout the day, with peak hours typically being more expensive (think evenings and hot summer days). By shifting some electricity usage to off-peak hours (like nights and weekends), you can potentially save money. For example, consider running laundry or using dishwashers at night when electricity rates are lower.
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- Bill Credit Plans
- These plans offer a credit on your bill if you stay below a certain usage threshold or meet a specific usage target. However, there might be limitations on the credit amount or how it can be used.
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- Understanding Your Usage is Key
- The key to maximizing savings with plan modifiers is understanding your electricity usage patterns. Analyze your past electricity bills to identify peak usage times and estimate the potential impact of shifting usage to off-peak hours.
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- Not all plans are one-size-fits-all.
- Consider your lifestyle and the feasibility of adjusting your usage patterns before choosing a time-of-use plan. Bill credit plans might not be ideal for everyone, especially those with unpredictable electricity usage.
Contract Length 'Term'
- Contract length, or “term,” is a key factor for many customers. Some prefer short-term plans for flexibility, while others prefer locking in rates for longer. However, not all providers offer the same plan terms. If contract length is important to you, prioritize finding a plan with a term that aligns with your needs (common terms include month-to-month, 6-month, 12-month, and 24-month contracts).
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- Useful Tips for Selecting a Term
- Pay attention to expiration dates: Plans with lower advertised rates may expire during peak months, leading to higher renewal costs. We highlight the expiration month of each plan to help you make informed decisions.
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- Don’t get locked in for the wrong reasons: Long-term plans are ideal for locking in a low rate, not because you want to avoid shopping for electricity again.
Budget
- When comparing plans, pay close attention to the price per kWh (unit of electricity usage) and any additional fees. This can significantly impact your monthly bill and help you make informed financial decisions. For example, a plan with a lower kWh rate might have higher monthly fees, so it’s important to consider both factors.
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- Understanding Your True Costs
- Our True Price tool allows you to see exactly what you’ll be paying before any discounts or credits are applied. Additionally, our detailed plan cards break out the costs into the provider’s charges and the utility supplier’s (TDU) charges, giving you a clear picture of your overall electricity costs. This clarity empowers you to make informed decisions about your electricity plan.
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- Remember: The best plan for your budget will depend on your specific needs and usage patterns, not the provider you choose.
Green Energy 'Renewable'
- If minimizing your environmental impact is important to you, consider choosing a plan with a high Renewable rate. Each plan has a ‘Renewable Percent’ amount, which can be found in the details section of our plan cards, and it indicates how much of that plan’s electricity comes from renewable sources.
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- Most providers offer a variety of plans, including 100% renewable plans and those that use conventional resources. Typically, 100% renewable plans are slightly more expensive than conventional ones.
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- Understanding Renewable Percent
- The Renewable Percent tells you the proportion of electricity in a plan that is sourced from renewable energy. For example, a plan with a 100% Renewable rate ensures that all the electricity you use is matched with energy from renewable sources, such as wind, solar, or hydroelectric power.
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- Texas Electricity Finder allows you to prioritize your green energy goals by:
- Filtering by Renewable Percentage: Easily filter plans based on their renewable percentage to find options that align with your values.
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- Clear Plan Information: Our detailed plan cards provide all the information you need to make informed choices, including the renewable percentage and any source details available.
Solar Buyback
Do you have solar panels on your home? If so, consider a plan with solar buyback. These plans allow you to sell excess electricity your panels generate back to the grid, potentially increasing your savings.
- Important Points to Consider
- Solar buyback is a plan feature, not a provider feature. While not all providers offer buyback plans, many do. It’s important to compare plans and choose one with buyback parameters that suit your solar system and electricity usage.
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- Rates and terms can vary. Buyback rates and program details can differ between providers. Look for plans with competitive rates and terms that align with your solar energy production.
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- Texas Electricity Finder Helps You Find the Right Fit
- Filter for Buyback Plans: Easily filter plans by those offering solar buyback to find options that work for your solar setup.
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- Compare Plan Details: Our detailed plan cards provide clear information about buyback rates, program terms, and other relevant details.
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Remember: The ideal plan depends on your specific solar system and electricity usage. We empower you to choose a plan that maximizes the benefits of your solar panels.
EV Owners
- Electric vehicle (EV) owners, rejoice! These are plans designed to help you save on charging costs. There are two types of EV Plans:Â
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- • True EV Plans: These plans offer a lower rate or even free electricity during charging but require registering your EV charger or EV with the provider to qualify for these plans. The special rate is limited to charging only.Â
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- • Time-of-Use Plans with EV Benefits: These plans are essentially Time-of-Use plans that offer lower rates during off-peak hours, which often coincide with ideal EV charging times. While the rate might not be as low as a true EV plan, you can potentially save more by strategically shifting other high-energy activities (dishwasher, laundry) to these off-peak hours.
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- Important Considerations:
- EV Plans are a plan feature, not a provider feature. While not all providers offer EV-specific plans, many do.
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- Find the plan that fits your needs. Consider your typical charging times and willingness to shift energy usage to off-peak hours when choosing a plan.
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- Texas Electricity Finder Makes Choosing Easy:
- Filter for EV Plans: Easily filter plans designed for EV owners to quickly find options that align with your needs.
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- Clear Plan Information: Our detailed plan cards provide clear information about plan types, rates, and any specific requirements for EV charging discounts.
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Remember: The ideal plan depends on your charging habits and overall electricity usage. We empower you to choose a plan that maximizes your savings as an EV owner.
Provider Features
Now that you understand plan features, let’s explore popular features that are specific to the provider.Â
You’ll sometimes find very similar plans, if not the same. In these cases, consider the features of the provider to help make your choice. There are dozens of providers operating in Texas, ranging from established players to innovative newcomers. So which do you choose?Â
Gone are the days of relying on friends’ recommendations. Today’s electricity providers are revolutionizing the industry with green energy options, technology, and money-saving incentives that benefit both your wallet and the environment. Let’s explore these features to help you make an informed decision when choosing a provider.Â
- • Commitment to Green Energy
- • Customer Service
- • TechnologyÂ
- • Reward Programs
- • Additional Services like Solar Offerings and Batter Backup Systems
Commitment to Green Energy
Want to make a real impact on the environment with your electricity choice? While many providers offer renewable energy plans, some go a step further with their commitment to a green future.Â
- If sustainability and environmental impact are important to you, and you’re deciding between two 100% Renewable plans, look at the providers and see if they:
- Focus exclusively on renewable energy
- Do they only offer plans powered by sustainable sources like wind and solar, eliminating fossil fuel-based options entirely?Â
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- Invest in renewable energy infrastructure
- Do they invest in developing or expanding renewable energy sources, actively contributing to a greener future?
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- Support environmental initiatives
- Does the provider demonstrate their commitment to environmental responsibility through additional programs or partnerships?
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By choosing a provider dedicated to green energy, you’ll power your home with clean energy and support positive environmental change.
Customer Service
- Even the most reliable electricity provider can encounter occasional service disruptions. In those situations, having responsive customer service representatives readily available is crucial.
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- Here’s what to consider regarding a provider’s customer service:
- Multiple Contact Channels
- Look for providers offering multiple ways to connect, including phone, online chat, and email. Having various options ensures you can reach them in the way that’s most convenient for you.
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- Responsiveness
- Research the provider’s reputation for prompt responses and resolution times. Quick and effective customer service can save you time and stress when issues arise.
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- Customer Reviews
- Checking online reviews can provide valuable insights into real customer experiences with a provider’s customer service. Look for consistent feedback on how issues are handled and resolved.
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Remember, efficient and helpful customer service can make a big difference. Use Texas Electricity Finder’s provider ratings and easy plan comparison tools to find a provider with a strong customer service reputation!
Technology
- In today’s digital world, many electricity providers offer user-friendly technology tools to manage your account and energy use. Here are some features to consider:
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- Online Account Management
- Look for providers with user-friendly online dashboards. These portals allow you to:
- • View your bill details and payment history.
- • Track your energy usage in real-time or over time periods.
- • Set up automatic payments or budget alerts.
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- Mobile Apps
- Convenience is key! Choose a provider with a mobile app that allows you to manage your account on the go. This can be especially useful for:
- • Monitoring your usage
- • Making payments
- • Reporting outages
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- Smart Home Integration
- Some providers offer the ability to connect your smart thermostat or other smart home devices to your account. This allows you to:
- • Gain deeper insights into your energy consumption patterns.
- • Remotely adjust your thermostat settings to potentially reduce usage during peak hours and save money.
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Remember: Technology can empower you to take control of your energy use and potentially save money.
Rewards
- Looking for ways to add value to your electricity choice? Some providers offer attractive rewards programs that incentivize energy-saving behaviors or simply reward your loyalty. Here’s what to consider:
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- Types of Rewards
- Rewards programs can vary, but some common offerings include:
- • Bill Credits or Discounts: Receive credits or discounts based on your energy usage.
- • Cashback Rewards or Points: Earn cashback rewards or points redeemable for various items.
- • Gift Cards or Partner Discounts: Get gift cards or discounts on services from partner companies.
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- Eligibility and Requirements
- Not all customers may qualify for all rewards programs. Look for details about:
- Program Eligibility: Understand who qualifies for the rewards program.
- Specific Requirements: Be aware of any specific actions or thresholds needed to earn rewards.
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- Aligning with Your Goals
- Consider your priorities. Do you want rewards for lower usage, or are you simply looking for a loyalty program? Choose a program that aligns with your goals and motivates you.
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Remember: Rewards programs can be a great way to add value to your electricity plan. Choose a program that complements your energy usage habits and encourages you to save.
Additional Services Beyond Electricity
- Many electricity providers are expanding their offerings to include additional services that can help you manage your energy use and potentially save money.
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- Here are some examples:
- Solar Panel Installation
- Some providers offer bundled plans that include solar panel installation, allowing you to generate your own clean electricity and potentially reduce your reliance on the grid.
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- Battery Storage Solutions
- Pair your solar panels with a battery storage system to maximize your self-reliance and store excess solar energy for use during peak hours.
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- Home Efficiency Assessments
- Identify areas for improvement in your home’s energy efficiency. These assessments can help you save money on your electricity bills.
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- Smart Home Integration
- Some providers offer integrated smart home solutions that allow you to control your thermostat, lighting, and other appliances remotely, potentially leading to further energy savings.
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- Keep in Mind:
- • Availability: Not all providers offer these additional services. Check with the provider to see what is available.
- • Separate Agreements: These services might require separate agreements with the provider, which could include additional costs and commitments.
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Remember: Exploring additional services can help you create a comprehensive energy solution that meets your needs and goals.
Differences in Providers
While all electricity providers purchase electricity wholesale and manage customer relationships (billing, plans, etc.), they can differ significantly in the features and value they offer to customers. By understanding these key distinctions, you can find a provider that aligns perfectly with your needs and potentially saves you money.Â
As we mentioned earlier, several key features can differentiate providers and influence your choice. To recap, here are the provider features we discussed earlier.Â
Green Energy Options
- Some providers offer plans that source a portion of their electricity from renewable sources like solar or wind power. Choose a plan that aligns with your sustainability goals.
Customer Service
- Look for providers known for excellent customer service, quick response times, and ease of communication. A provider’s commitment to your satisfaction can ensure you receive the support you need, when you need it.
Technology
- Many providers offer user-friendly technology tools to manage your account and energy use. Look for features like online account management, mobile apps, and smart home integration.
Rewards Program
Looking for ways to add value to your electricity choice? Some providers offer attractive rewards programs that incentivize energy-saving behaviors or simply reward your loyalty.
While those are several common features to consider when choosing a provider, there’s more! Let’s explore additional aspects that can influence your decision and empower you to find the perfect plan.
Price & Plan Options
- This is probably the most obvious. Providers offer various plans with different fixed or variable rates, contract lengths, and features (weekend discounts, green energy options). Choosing the right one for you is key.Â
Company Reputation & Reliability
- Look for providers with a history of reliable service and a strong reputation in the community. Research online reviews and industry ratings to find a provider known for keeping the lights on and their customers satisfied.
Bill Transparency
- Avoid hidden fees and surprise charges. Focus on providers known for clear and transparent billing practices, so you can understand exactly what you’re paying for
Risk Management
- Manage your costs and avoid surprises. Look for providers with experience managing market risks, which can help them offer stable pricing and reliable service. This can translate to greater peace of mind for you as a customer.
When choosing an electricity provider, it’s crucial to distinguish between plan features and provider features. Plan features, like price per kilowatt-hour, contract term, and green energy options, directly impact your electricity bill and usage patterns. Provider features, on the other hand, focus on the service and value offered by the electricity company, such as customer service responsiveness, online account management tools, and additional services like solar panel installation.
By understanding the difference between plan features and provider features, you’ll be empowered to make an informed decision that prioritizes your needs and preferences. Texas Electricity Finder can help you compare plans and providers side-by-side to find the perfect fit for your home.
Texans can save up to
$500 per year
- by switching to a new electricity plan
- explore affordable plans in your area
Which Provider is Right for You?
Finding the right electricity provider in Texas comes down to one key factor: the plan they offer.Â
While provider reputation and service matter, the plan you choose has the biggest impact on your monthly bill and overall experience.
Selling the same product...
Think of it like this: Imagine several stores selling TVs. All the TVs are built by the same manufacturer using the same parts from the same supplier, but each store gets to brand the TVs with their name, choose the features they want included in their TVs, and how much they sell the TVs for.
Some customers will purchase the same TV with the same features as other customers but pay a different price just because they went to a different store. Others will overpay for TVs with features they didn’t want or need. There will be customers who are very happy with their purchase, while others will be very frustrated with their experience.
In reality, all customers are essentially buying the same TV. If they shopped specifically for the features that fit their needs rather than settling for or buying a TV that was not right for them just because it was available at the store they were at, they would have a much better overall experience. This is exactly how the electricity market works: the stores are the Providers, and the TVs are the electricity plans.Â
Knowledge is Power when it comes to shopping for electricity
Did you know the #1 complaint about providers is that the bill was more than the customer expected? 9 out of 10 times, this is because the plan wasn’t explained clearly or the customer didn’t fully understand the details of the plan they selected. Basically, the customer bought the wrong TV and didn’t know it.Â
At the end of the day, it’s important to understand the details of the electricity plan you’re purchasing. Once you know the plan you want, you can then start to compare the various providers to find the perfect match. Â
So what makes them different? Why would you choose one over the other? Does it really matter which provider you use?Â
Don't get complacent!
When it comes to shopping for electricity, complacency can be costly. One of the most beneficial outcomes of deregulating the Texas energy market was the introduction of competition between providers. This was a response to the potential for customer rates to increase without alternative options. By staying vigilant and actively comparing plans, you can avoid falling into the complacency trap and potentially save money.Â
Did you know that most renewal rates are higher than rates for new customers? That’s because providers know it’s easier for customers to renew than to shop for a new electric plan. They’re banking on your complacency to stay, which can cost you.Â
There are many providers out there, both familiar names and newcomers. At Texas Electricity Finder, we’ve partnered with a diverse range of providers to cater to your unique needs. We represent you, the customer, and strive to offer you the best options available.
Looking for the Perfect Fit?
Texas Electricity Finder can be your trusted partner in navigating the Texas electricity market. We work with a variety of reputable providers, giving you a wide range of plans to compare. Our services are free and unbiased. We’re here to help you understand your options and find the perfect fit for your needs.
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