Power to Choose Texas
Searching for a new electricity plan in Texas? The state’s official Power to Choose website seems like the logical starting point.
But here’s the catch—it only shows rates for 500, 1000, and 2000 kWh usage, which rarely match your monthly energy consumption.
This oversimplification can lead to shocking bills. Why? Prices often swing wildly between these set points.
We’ll show you how to look beyond the advertised rates on Power to Choose and find a plan that fits your actual usage—potentially saving you hundreds each year.
Table of Contents
What is Power to Choose?
Power to Choose is Texas’s official state-run electricity marketplace, managed by thePublic Utility Commission of Texas.
Created in 2002, when Texas deregulated its electricity market, this consumer choice initiative lets residents in many parts of the state compare and select their electricity provider and plan.
Power to Choose helps consumers find the best plan for their home or business by comparing electricity plans and rates from multiple Texas energy companies in one place.
Power to Choose Reviews
At first glance, Power to Choose offers a straightforward solution for comparing electricity plans and rates in Texas.
Enter your ZIP code, and you are presented with a list of available plans and rates.
There are, however, several challenges that, as an energy consumer, you should know.
- Limited Rate Visibility
Power to Choose displays prices for only three usage levels: 500 kWh, 1000 kWh, and 2000 kWh per month.
This is problematic as your monthly energy usage rarely (if ever) matches these specific amounts.
- Complex Pricing Structures
Electricity plans in Texas and those listed on Power to Choose feature intricate pricing models.
These may include base charges, tiered rates, and bill credits that only apply at certain usage levels.
While this information is included in the Electricity Facts Label (EFL), it’s often presented in industry jargon that can be challenging for the average consumer to decipher without tools and expertise.
- Overwhelming Number of Options
A search for plans in major Texas cities can yield hundreds of results.
While choice is generally beneficial, this abundance can lead to decision paralysis for many consumers.
- Potential for Misleading Listings
Some providers have been known to create plans that appear artificially inexpensive at the specific usage levels displayed on Power to Choose.
While this practice is not universal, it can lead consumers to select plans that are less economical than they initially appear.
- Minimal Provider Vetting
Power to Choose doesn’t extensively vet the providers listed beyond ensuring they meet basic regulatory requirements.
Consumers may need additional research to ensure they’re selecting a reliable company.
Power to Choose Alternative
Several alternative electricity marketplaces have emerged to address the limitations of Power to Choose for Texas consumers.
ComparePower is the best alternative to Power to Choose in Texas.
As the most trusted marketplace, it has solved many of the shortcomings associated with the state-run site.
Here’s why ComparePower is the best alternative to Power to Choose when shopping for electricity in Texas.
- Personalized Usage-Based Pricing
Input your energy usage and get more accurate cost estimates based on your consumption patterns.
- All-Inclusive Pricing
You can see the total cost of each plan, including all applicable fees, reducing the risk of unexpected costs on monthly bills.
- Provider Screening
Providers are vetted before being listed, potentially mitigating the risk of consumers selecting unreliable companies.
- User-Friendly Interface
Intuitively designed and easy to use, with tools like Live Link™ to help you maximize your savings.
- Customer Support
Get support from energy experts to guide users through the selection process.
Power to Choose Energy Plans
You can find several energy plans on Power to Choose from competing retail electricity providers in Texas.
- Fixed-Rate Plans: Offer a set rate per kWh for the duration of your contract.
- Variable-Rate Plans: Rates can change monthly based on market conditions.
- Prepaid Plans: Pay for electricity before you use it, often with no credit check required.
- Time-of-Use Plans: Rates vary based on the time of day you use electricity.
- Green Energy Plans: Sourced from renewable energy like wind or solar power.
While Power to Choose aims to simplify comparison shopping, it’s important to note that the displayed rates are based on specific usage levels (500, 1000, and 2000 kWh).
Your actual costs may vary significantly depending on your household’s energy consumption patterns.
Before deciding, read each plan’sElectricity Facts Label(EFL)to understand the complete pricing structure.
Power to Choose for Business
Power to Choose doesn’t list business electricity rates,but ComparePower does.
We simplify the process,secure custom pricing,and help your business save.
Commercial energy plans can be riddled with complex terms and conditions.
We understand this, so we make it our mission to simplify the process for you.
Our team of experts will break down the fine print and answer any questions you have, ensuring you fully understand your chosen plan before you sign up.
We’ve helped countless businesses find the most cost-effective energy plans, and we’re confident we can do the same for you.
Shop Business Electricity →
Texas Electricity Companies
Discover the top electricity providers in Texas.
| Energy Companies | Phone Number |
|---|---|
| 4Change Energy | 888-250-2215 |
| Amigo Energy | 866-993-4445 |
| Cirro Energy | 866-965-5660 |
| Constellation | 877-390-0411 |
| Direct Energy | 866-285-4447 |
| Discount Power | 866-996-1740 |
| Flagship Power | 866-747-7111 |
| Frontier Utilities | 866-280-3131 |
| Gexa Energy | 888-688-8460 |
| Green Mountain | 866-983-4770 |
| Just Energy | 866-985-2820 |
| New Power Texas | 888-316-0697 |
| Payless Power | 855-854-8490 |
| Pulse Power | 888-317-1431 |
| Reliant | 866-983-4620 |
| Rhythm Energy | 877-825-9940 |
| TXU Energy | 866-370-2440 |
| Tara Energy | 877-599-2580 |
Compare rates from trusted providers
Power to Choose FAQs
Yes, Power to Choose is a legitimate website operated by the Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT), a state government agency responsible for regulating the Texas electricity market. The PUCT created Power to Choose to provide Texas residents with an unbiased, transparent platform to compare electricity plans from various providers.
The information on Power to Choose, including plan details, pricing, and provider information, is submitted directly by the electricity companies and is subject to PUCT oversight. Providers must follow strict rules and regulations when listing their plans on the website to ensure accuracy and fairness.
However, it’s essential to understand that Power to Choose is a marketplace, not a regulatory body. While the PUCT strives to ensure the information on the website is accurate and up-to-date, it’s still the consumer’s responsibility to thoroughly review plan details, contract terms, and provider reputation before signing up for an electricity plan.
If you have concerns about a specific provider or plan listed on Power to Choose, contact the PUCT’s Customer Protection Division for assistance or file a complaint.
While Power to Choose is a valuable resource for Texas residents to compare electricity plans, it has some limitations. The website only provides a basic comparison of plans based on price, contract length, and renewable energy options, but it doesn’t consider a consumer’s specific electricity usage patterns. This means the plans listed on Power to Choose might not always be the most cost-effective or suitable for your household.
ComparePower, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive and personalized approach to comparing electricity plans. As an unaffiliated, independent marketplace, ComparePower provides several advantages over Power to Choose:
- Usage-based recommendations:ComparePower analyzes your historical electricity usage data to provide tailored recommendations based on your unique energy needs. This ensures you find the most affordable plan that fits your consumption habits, saves money, and prevents unexpected high bills.
- Transparent pricing:ComparePower displays all fees, charges, and contract terms upfront, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. There are no hidden costs or surprises down the line.
- Expert support:If you need assistance, ComparePower’s team of local energy experts is available to help you find the right electricity plan for your home. They can answer your questions, provide personalized recommendations, and help you make an informed decision.
- Time-saving tools:With ComparePower’s user-friendly platform, you can quickly filter and compare plans from multiple providers in one place. The streamlined enrollment process allows you to sign up for your chosen plan in just a few clicks.
- Business electricity rates:Unlike Power to Choose, which only caters to residential consumers, ComparePower also helps Texas businesses compare and select electricity plans tailored to their needs.
While Power to Choose remains a helpful starting point for exploring electricity plans in Texas,ComparePower offers a more advanced, user-centric alternativeto help you find the best plan for your specific needs, save money, and avoid the pitfalls of choosing an unsuitable plan based on limited information.
If you selected an electricity plan through Power to Choose, you must pay your bill directly to the provider you signed up with, not to Power to Choose. Your provider will send you monthly bills with instructions on how to pay, which may include online, phone, mail, or in-person options. Pay your bill by the due date to avoid late fees or service interruptions.
No, the Power to Choose website, operated by the Public Utilities Commission of Texas (PUCT), does not listbusiness electricity rates. The website is designed to help residential consumers compare and select electricity plans from various providers in Texas.
However, businesses in Texas can still take advantage of the deregulated electricity market and shop for competitive rates from multiple providers. This is where ComparePower comes in.
ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace that helps Texas businesses compare electricity rates from over 30 providers and find the right energy plan for their needs. Whether you have a small business with a monthly electricity bill under $1,000 or a large commercial facility with complex energy requirements, ComparePower has solutions tailored to your business.
For small businesses, ComparePower offers an online marketplace where you can instantly compare rates from multiple providers and enroll in a plan that fits your budget and energy usage. The process is simple and transparent and can be completed online in just a few minutes.
If you have a larger business with higher energy consumption, ComparePower’s business energy experts can provide personalized assistance and custom rate quotes. They will analyze your company’s energy needs, help you navigate procurement projects, and even assist with industrial installation design and rebate opportunities.
PowertoChoose.org, the official website of the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), allows consumers to compare electricity rates from various providers in their area. The website lists plans with their corresponding rates, contract lengths, and renewable energy content.
However, there are a few limitations to how Power to Choose presents electric rates:
- Limited usage pricing:Power to Choose only displays rates for three predefined usage points (500, 1000, and 2000 kWh per month), which may not accurately represent your household’s electricity consumption.
- Lack of personalization:The rates shown on Power to Choose are generic and do not consider your specific usage patterns, which can significantly impact your monthly costs.
- Potential for hidden fees:While Power to Choose displays the average price per kWh for each plan, it may not always include all the fees, charges, and other costs that can affect your final bill.
In contrast, ComparePower offers a more accurate and personalized approach to comparing electric rates:
- Usage-based rates:ComparePower analyzes your historical electricity usage data to provide rate comparisons tailored to your specific consumption patterns. This ensures you get the most accurate estimate of your monthly costs under each available plan.
- Transparent pricing:ComparePower displays all fees, charges, and contract terms upfront, so you know exactly what you’re signing up for. There are no hidden costs or surprises down the line.
- Apples-to-apples comparison:ComparePower’s advanced algorithm calculates the total monthly cost for each plan based on your usage data, allowing you to compare plans side-by-side and easily make an informed decision.
- Personalized recommendations:If you need assistance, ComparePower’s local energy experts can provide personalized recommendations based on your usage patterns, budget, and preferences.
While Power to Choose is a good starting point for exploring electric rates in Texas, ComparePower provides a more comprehensive and accurate way to compare rates based on your unique needs. By considering your actual usage data and providing transparent pricing information, ComparePower helps you find the best plan for your household, ultimately saving you time and money.
ComparePower offers a more personalized and transparent approach to comparing plans. By analyzing your unique usage data and providing straightforward, upfront pricing information, we help you find the most cost-effective strategy for your specific needs.
Finding comprehensive, unbiased reviews of the platform can be challenging.
You canread our in-depth reviewand analysis, where we highlight several key issues with the Power to Choose platform:
- Lack of quality control:Power to Choose doesn’t vet the electricity providers or plans listed on its site, meaning consumers may encounter offers from unreliable or poorly rated companies.
- Confusing plan information:The Electricity Facts Labels (EFLs) and Terms of Service documents provided on Power to Choose can be challenging to understand, containing complex jargon, hidden fees, and unclear terms.
- No personalization:Power to Choose doesn’t consider a consumer’s unique energy needs, usage patterns, or preferences, making it hard to find the most suitable plan for their household.
- Limited customer feedback:While Power to Choose displays a complaint ratio for each provider, it lacks detailed information about customer experiences, making it difficult to gauge the quality of service each company offers.
In contrast, ComparePower offers a more user-friendly and reliable alternative to Power to Choose. Their platform provides:
- Personalized recommendations based on your actual energy usage
- Pre-screened providers with a proven track record of reliability and customer service
- Clear, transparent pricing with no hidden fees or confusing terms
- An easy-to-use interface with helpful tools and resources to guide your decision-making
- Exceptional customer support from local energy experts
While Power to Choose may seem like the go-to resource for comparing electricity plans in Texas, it’s crucial to be aware of its limitations and consider alternative platforms offering a more comprehensive, transparent, and user-focused approach.
ComparePower has over70,010 reviewsfrom verified customers.
Beyond Power to Choose
Power to Choose means well, but it often leaves Texans confused.
Don’t spend hours decoding complex electricity offers. There’s a simpler way.
ComparePower – Clarity in Minutes, Not Hours
We’re on a mission to Unscrew Texas from confusing electricity bills.
Get personalized recommendations based on your energy habits and see transparent, all-inclusive pricing upfront so you can confidently shop and take control of your energy costs.
Ready to see your savings? Enter your ZIP code to start your personalized comparison.
The Power is Yours™
Why Texans Trust ComparePower
- 15+ Years of Experience: We’ve helped millions of fellow Texans save on their electricity
- 4.9/5 Star Rating: From customers who ordered their electricity plan on ComparePower
- Fast, Secure Checkout: Get your best electricity plan in about 10 minutes
Support You Can Count On
Do you have more questions or need help finding the right plan for your household? Our local experts are here to help.
Contact us today, and let us help you find an electricity plan that meets your needs and budget.
With our personalized recommendations and transparent pricing, you can shop with confidence and take control of your energy costs.
We’re Here to Help!
Call 855-441-3030, Monday to Friday, from 8 am to 6 pm.
Call Now
Stay Informed with Our Latest Articles
Find practical bill-saving tips and straightforward guides on understanding your electricity options.
How to Compare Texas Electricity Rates
Discover how to compare Texas electricity rates effortlessly. Whether you’re moving to a new home or looking to switch providers, ComparePower is your go-to resource for all things electricity in Texas.
Read More How to Compare Texas Electricity Rates
New Electricity Service
New Electricity Service in Texas Moving to a new home is an exhilarating journey, but it can also bring its fair share of challenges. One of the most daunting tasks can be setting up electricity for the first time. In the vast sea of options, it’s easy to feel unsure of where to start. But…
Read More New Electricity Service
How to Choose the Best Electricity Plan in Texas
Navigate the Texas electricity market with our personal guide. Learn from our experiences and insider tips to choose the best electricity plan in Texas.
Read More How to Choose the Best Electricity Plan in Texas
Shop with Your kWh Usage History
Discover how your electricity usage history, combined with Live Link™ technology, can unlock significant savings on your Texas energy bills.
Read More Shop with Your kWh Usage History
Common Pitfalls When Choosing an Electricity Provider in Texas
This guide helps Texans avoid common mistakes when choosing a residential electricity provider. Learn to understand your energy needs, scrutinize contract details, consider customer service, and use comparison tools for an informed decision.
Read More Common Pitfalls When Choosing an Electricity Provider in Texas
How to Switch Electric Companies
Facing high electricity bills, nearing the end of your contract, or pondering over a renewal offer? Learn how to switch electric companies in Texas and uncover how you can save money by opting for a more advantageous deal.
Read More How to Switch Electric Companies
How to Choose Your Texas Electricity Company
Effortlessly traverse the Texas electricity market with our detailed guide. Learn how to select the best provider tailored to your specific needs by considering various factors.
Read More How to Choose Your Texas Electricity Company
Moving to Texas? Start here…
Moving to Texas and feeling overwhelmed by the electricity choices? This comprehensive guide on ‘How to Shop & Choose Electricity in Texas’ simplifies the process. Whether you’re a homeowner or renting an apartment, this guide has got you covered.
Read More Moving to Texas? Start here…
Join Millions of Satisfied Texans
With millions of Texans served and 70,876+ 5-star reviews, we help you skip gimmicks and secure the most value.
Read What Our Customers Say
Author:
Enri Zhulati
Editor:
Ryan Hatch
Any product or company names, marks, or logos shown on this page are the property of their respective owners. ComparePower is an unaffiliated, independent marketplace. Get unbiased, accurate information backed by our commitment toeditorial integrity.
