Power to Choose texas is an online shopping website that allows consumers to shop for electricity providers and rates. It is run and operated by the state of Texas and is one way that Texas is attempting to inform and educate consumers about their options in a deregulated market. By entering their ZIP code, consumers can learn whether they are in a deregulated area and then use Power to Choose to compare and select a provider.
When power to choose texas launched, it was intended to provide consumers with a platform for energy providers to offer their plans and compete with each other. The result has been an extremely competitive retail electricity market and a confusing landscape for consumers trying to find an energy provider with competitive rates. This is why Power to Choose should be used with a caution and consumers should seek alternative tools to help them compare power rates in texas.
The best tool for comparing rates and finding the cheapest texas electric rates is EnergyBot. EnergyBot connects directly to the utility companies that serve each area, retrieves usage data and then sorts through hundreds of plans for each home. This helps consumers avoid getting trapped into teaser plans and other gimmicks that often trick them into a plan that doesn’t fit their needs. The tool also includes a savings calculator that can help a consumer determine how much they can save by switching to an approved REP, changing their usage habits or simply keeping their current service.
Other tools available on the Power to Choose website include a list of REPs, an industry scorecard and resources to aid in the education of Texas residents about electric choice. The scorecard reveals how a REP performs in customer satisfaction and complaint resolution. It is important for consumers to understand the ins and outs of how their utilities operate and their responsibilities when it comes to delivering service.
Another tool on the site is a comparison chart that compares local plans and providers side-by-side for easy evaluation. This chart allows consumers to quickly find the cheapest texas electricity rates by filtering the results according to their preferences. These preferences may include rate type (fixed or variable), term length, green percentage and more.
Using this tool is free and can be found by visiting the Power to Choose website. After logging in, consumers can select the criteria that will best suit their situation and then compare the available options to find the lowest texas electricity rates. This tool can be used by both residential and commercial customers.
Before choosing a power supplier in Texas, be sure to read the terms and conditions of each plan. Most offers will come with a contract term and will have termination fees, if applicable. Make sure to check these fees before selecting a plan, as some suppliers will add them on top of your base rate. The Public Utility Commission of Texas has a helpful FAQ page that explains these terms and conditions in further detail.