At Choose Texas Power, we aim to provide consistent, reliable information about energy plans. Our partners do not direct our editorial content, though we may reference their products in our posts. Read about how we make money to learn more.
Choosing an electricity provider in Texas’ deregulated market involves more than just selecting the cheapest option — it’s about finding a provider and plan aligned with your lifestyle and energy habits. There are four main categories to consider when comparing providers: plan type, contract length, provider rating, and price. By focusing on these key factors, you can find the best provider for your energy needs.
The type of energy rate you choose impacts the price you pay for electricity. There are two main rate types: fixed and variable. Fixed-rate plans are best for stability because your rate is locked in for the entire contract. Variable-rate plans are more fluid because your rate shifts with the energy market on a monthly basis, and you don’t have to sign a contract. Once you know which rate type is best for you, search for providers offering those plans on our marketplace. Enter your ZIP code and narrow your options using the rate type filter.
Pro tip: Customers who want predictable utility bills typically choose a fixed-rate plan, whereas those who want flexibility opt for a variable rate.
Your contract length determines how long you are committed to an energy plan. If you rent, a good rule of thumb is to match your contract length to your lease so you don’t overpay or experience a gap in coverage. If you own your home, you can spring for a longer contract for added peace of mind. Most energy plans range from one to three years, but shorter options, like month-to-month or six-month contracts, are also available.
Pro tip: Locking in a long-term fixed-rate plan can help you avoid increased renewal rates that often impact customers after their one-year plan ends.
We rate every electricity provider on our marketplace to help you evaluate its performance. Categories we assess include customer service, digital experience, and plan variety. Be sure to consult our energy provider ratings to learn about a provider’s strengths and weaknesses before you sign up.
Most consumers want to save on energy costs, but surprisingly, the cheapest electricity rate doesn’t always lead to the lowest energy bill. The best way to ensure you get a good price is to shop according to your usage tier. Deregulated energy plans are broken into three usage tiers: 500, 1,000, or 2,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh). Check your past energy bills to learn which usage tier you fall into, and then filter plans on our marketplace to find the best rate for your average consumption.
Note: A recent survey conducted by our energy experts found that price was the most important factor for Texans shopping for electricity. Read the full article on what matters most to our energy shoppers.
Energy shopping involves more than just the categories we already mentioned. Here are a few additional factors to keep in mind when comparing providers:
We surveyed our customers to determine which providers are the most popular in Texas. The results? TXU Energy, Gexa Energy, and 4Change Energy are the most frequently selected providers.
TXU is one of Texas’ oldest energy companies, with a strong reputation for reliability. Customers enjoy its wide variety of plans, which offer a solution for every shopper. Shop fixed rates, variable rates, solar buyback, and other unique options from this energy company.
Read our TXU Energy review for more in-depth information.
4Change Energy stands out among Texas energy providers for its dedication to local charities. It donates 4% of its annual profits to organizations such as Heroes for Children and the American Red Cross. 4Change is consistently one of our cheapest providers, offering fixed-rate plans with competitive bill credits.
Read our 4Change Energy review for a deeper analysis.
Gexa Energy is a 100% renewable energy provider that offers green energy plans at an affordable price. It specializes in fixed-rate plans, allowing consumers to lock in their energy rate for contract lengths of eight to 36 months. Many of its plans feature bill credits, helping shoppers save more when they meet the usage requirements.
Read our Gexa Energy review for more key details.
We partner with dozens of Texas’ leading providers to make energy shopping easy. Our marketplace is free to use and lets you browse your options in minutes. Here’s how it works:
From there, your new provider will handle setting up your service.
You can schedule a start date when you sign up for a plan. Some energy companies allow you to schedule your plan activation up to 90 days in advance. If you need your electricity turned on immediately, some providers offer same-day service within certain time windows. If you’re interested in a fast setup, give us a call at the number on your screen.
Yes, you can switch providers if you live in a deregulated market. Switching your provider is easy on Choose Texas Power: simply enter your ZIP code and browse your options. Once you sign up, your new provider will handle transferring your service without interruption. Keep in mind that cancelling your contract early may result in an ETF unless you move outside of your provider’s service area. Check your plan’s details to learn if you’ll incur a fine.
If you experience an outage, you’ll need to call your utility company (which delivers your electricity), not your energy provider. Find out which utility services your area on our Texas utility company page.
Electric providers in Texas are required to give customers at least a 30-day notice before their current electricity plan ends. After that, you can sign up for a different plan with the same provider, switch providers entirely, or re-enroll in your current plan.
Let us put the power in your hands with a new electricity plan.
