Moving to Texas? Here’s What to Know about Energy
Learn all about energy shopping 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 energy 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.

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 marketplace and sign up in minutes. Here’s how to find the best energy plan:

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

Advice from our experts to find the best electricity plan

Navigating Texas’ electricity market can be tricky, but you don’t have to do it alone. We asked our energy experts for their tips on finding the right plan.

  • Don’t settle for the first plan. Take your time reviewing plans. Many electricity plans are available in Texas, and some are likely a better match for you than others.
  • Consider your household size. Home size and number of occupants largely influence the energy plan you should pick. 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 savings and stability.
  • 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 doesn’t match your typical usage, it could be more expensive than you 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.

Are you moving within Texas?

If you are moving from one city in Texas to another, you might be able to take your energy plan with you. Electricity providers often operate in numerous deregulated areas across the state. You can keep your plan if your current provider also services your new address. 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. Just enter your new ZIP code to review your options. Texas providers waive the cancellation fee if you end your plan due to moving outside their service area.

Need electricity same day?

Whether you are moving on short notice or forgot to set up your power, same-day electricity activation can help. Multiple Texas electric 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?

Our energy experts review every electricity company we partner with to bring you peace of mind. Our two highest-rated providers are TXU Energy and TriEagle Energy. Both score high for plan variety, customer service, and online accessibility.

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.