Texas Electricity FAQ
Short answers to the questions Texans ask most, with links to the full guides. Compare plans for your ZIP code.
1. Choosing an electricity provider
How do I choose a Texas electricity provider?
Start with your ZIP code, then compare the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) average price at 500, 1,000 and 2,000 kWh against your own usage, plus the contract length and cancellation fee.
Does a bigger provider mean better service or fewer outages?
No. Outages and line repair are handled by your delivery utility, not your retail provider.
2. Moving and starting service
Do I have to switch providers when I move?
No. Starting service at a new address and changing the company that bills you are separate steps. You can do one, both, or neither.
How do I find my meter number?
Your ESI ID identifies the meter at a service address. Look it up by address before you enroll, especially in apartments.
3. Understanding electricity bills
Why is my bill higher than the advertised rate suggests?
Your bill adds regulated delivery charges and may include base charges, usage credits that you missed, or a higher holdover rate after a contract ends.
4. Electricity Facts Labels
What is an Electricity Facts Label?
The EFL is the standard disclosure for each plan. It shows average price at 500, 1,000 and 2,000 kWh, fees, contract term and renewable content. Read it for the plan you are about to choose.
5. Delivery utilities
What is a TDU and why do I pay it no matter who I choose?
The transmission and distribution utility owns the wires and meter in your area. Its charges are regulated and passed through on your bill regardless of retail provider.
Can everyone in Texas choose a provider?
No. City-owned utilities and most electric co-ops do not offer retail choice. It depends on the exact service address.
6. Switching and cancellation fees
Is it worth paying a cancellation fee to switch?
It can be. Compare the monthly difference against the fee and months remaining to find the break-even point.
Is the fee waived if I move?
Texas rules generally require the early termination fee to be waived when you move out of the service address and provide proof. Confirm with your provider.
7. No-deposit electricity
How can I avoid a deposit?
Some customers qualify for a deposit waiver under PUCT Substantive Rule §25.478 with documentation; your retail provider verifies eligibility. Prepaid plans are another option and often cost more per kWh.
8. Solar buyback
How do solar buyback plans work?
Some plans credit the energy your panels send to the grid. Credit rates, caps and monthly fees differ, so compare the export credit with the energy charge.
9. Business electricity
Can my business compare electricity too?
Yes. Commercial pricing depends on load profile and demand charges, so Power Hopper collects details and returns options.
10. Power Hopper services
Who is Power Hopper and is it free to use?
Power Hopper is BJW Ventures LLC d/b/a Power Hopper, a PUCT-registered broker (BR260201). Comparing is free to you. See how we are compensated on the About page.
Does Power Hopper guarantee savings?
No. Prices and availability depend on your service address and usage, so check the plan documents before you enroll.
Power Hopper (BJW Ventures LLC d/b/a Power Hopper, PUCT Broker Registration BR260201). Plan availability and prices depend on your service address.