Moving to Texas? Here’s What to Know About Energy

Find a low-cost energy plan in the Lone Star State.

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Moving to Texas?

If you are moving to Texas for the first time, you may have some questions about deregulated energy. The Lone Star State first deregulated its energy market in 2002 to give consumers more electricity plan choices. As a result, Texans can pick their electricity plan from a variety of retail electric providers (REPs).

Energy deregulation benefits consumers because REPs compete for their business by offering low rates, unique packages, and opportunities to save. You can shop for electricity up to 90 days before your move-in date to ensure your power is ready to go once you arrive.

Best energy providers for moving

Movers have a blank slate to find the right energy provider for their needs. Here are some of the top-rated electric companies in Texas to keep on your radar:

How to use our marketplace

Choose Texas Power bridges the gap between shoppers and electricity plans through our independent marketplace. Customers can shop for electricity plans directly on our site or over the phone and sign up in minutes. Here’s how to find the best energy plan:

  • Enter your ZIP code. Electricity rates and plans vary by location. When you enter your area code, our marketplace displays accurate results and prices for your location.
  • Compare your options. Browse rates and plans available in your location. Tailor your results with our filters. You can sort by contract length, rate type, price, and more.
  • Sign up online or over the phone. Once you’ve found the right plan, sign up online in minutes or call our team for assistance. Your new provider will handle activating or switching your service.

Moving tips from our energy experts

Navigating Texas’s electricity market can be tricky, but you don’t have to do it alone. Review these expert moving tips to find the right electricity plan.

  • Don’t settle for the first plan. Take your time reviewing plans. Many types of electricity plans are available in Texas, and it’s important to find the right match.
  • Consider your household size. Your home size and number of occupants are important when picking an energy plan. If you have a small household or live in an apartment, search for plans that benefit a lower usage level, around 500-1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh). A large household with more complex energy needs would benefit from a plan that caters to the highest usage tier, up to 2,000 kWh.
  • Shop according to contract length. It helps to match your contract length to the time you plan to spend in your new home. Consider a variable-rate plan to avoid cancellation fees if your living situation is in flux. However, if you plan to be in your home for at least a year, a fixed-rate plan offers the most stability and price protection.
  • Be careful with bill credit plans. Bill credits discount your electricity bill when you reach a certain usage level. These can be an excellent way to save if you know your energy habits and meet the requirements every month. However, if the bill credit criteria don’t match your typical usage, your bill could be more expensive than anticipated.

If you are struggling to decide which plan is best for you, call our team. We have over 20 years of experience working with Texas electricity plans and can match you with the best option.

How to switch or move providers in Texas

If you are moving from one city in Texas to another, you have options for your electricity plan. If your current provider also services your new address, you can keep your plan. However, if it does not serve your new location, you’ll need to shop for a new provider.

Choose Texas Power can help you switch providers easily. Simply enter your new ZIP code to review your options.

Same-day electricity services in Texas

Customers in a pinch can access same-day service in Texas. Many providers offer same-day electricity setup within 24 hours of enrollment. To qualify, you must enroll before the provider’s cutoff time and have a smart meter with remote activation. Review our guide on same-day electricity to learn which providers offer this service.

Moving to Texas FAQs

What is the best electricity company in Texas?

Two of the highest-rated providers on our marketplace are TXU Energy and 4Change Energy. However, each provider offers its own benefits and possible drawbacks, so use our marketplace to compare features and find the best electricity provider for your home or business.

What if I have to move before my plan expires?

If you are moving before your plan expires, you can either take it with you if your provider services your new location or cancel it. Cancelling your plan may result in an early termination fee (ETF). Your Electricity Facts Label (EFL) outlines any fees associated with your plan. However, the ETF is usually waived if you are moving outside of your provider’s service area.

How is Texas’ deregulated energy market different from other states?

In Texas, residents must choose a retail electric provider to power their home or business. Unlike other deregulated states, Texans cannot purchase electricity from their local utility company if their city is deregulated. Instead, utility companies deliver electricity and maintain the local electric infrastructure, while energy providers operate independently to sell electricity.

Deregulated energy made easy

Let us put the power in your hands with a new electricity plan.

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