Texas electricity providers and utilities
In most parts of Texas, electricity is deregulated. As a result, people living in these areas have the power to choose their energy provider — also known as a retail electric provider (REP). These companies must compete for customers’ business, which often leads to cheap electricity rates and consumer-friendly plan features.
Some of the state’s most popular REPs include 4Change Energy, Direct Energy, Gexa Energy, TriEagle Energy, and TXU Energy. However, provider and plan availability depend on your location within Texas.
Responsibilities of Oncor Electric
As one of several power utilities in Texas, Oncor has a number of responsibilities. Texas electric utilities deliver electricity to homes and businesses within their service areas through the power lines, which they also maintain. Utilities respond to power outages and downed power lines. In deregulated markets, you’re free to pick an electricity company, but your utility is assigned based on your address.
While your electric bill comes from your energy provider (not your utility), you’ll find transmission and distribution fees from Oncor in addition to your provider’s energy charges.