Switch Electricity Provider

The power to choose your power supply is all about knowing your rights as an electric customer. Texas"deregulated energy market means consumers have a lot more options when it comes to their electricity provider than just the area utility company. It also means consumers have the power to switch energy companies if they are not happy with their service. At Choose Texas Power, we know that while deregulated energy has its benefits, it can also feel confusing. We"re here to fix that, with a few simple steps so you can switch providers and get better service in just a few minutes. It"s time to take control of your power supply and find an electricity plan you"re happy with. Let"s get started.

What Makes Consumers Consider Switching Providers?

Some consumers find themselves switching providers because they moved to a new utility area that their current REP doesn"t service. But there are many reasons why you may want to consider switching electricity providers even if you aren"t moving. You want a lower rate or different options. Electricity prices change constantly. Depending on when you last bought a plan, you may be paying more than you need to. Or maybe you have a variable rate that fluctuates frequently, and you want something more stable. Your current plan no longer fits your needs. Sometimes things change, and your plan should account for that! Whether you"ve decided to go green or your average usage has changed, it"s okay to outgrow your plan ??" and shop for a new one. You are unhappy with your current provider"s level of service. A huge benefit of deregulation is the number of providers available. There is no reason to stay with a supplier who doesn"t live up to your standards.

How To Switch To A Different Electricity Provider

Switching providers is easy. All it takes is a few steps. If you have questions along the way, give us a call and one of our team members can walk you through it.

  • Check your eligibility. Only consumers in deregulated areas can switch their energy provider. Almost all of Texas is deregulated, but there are a few cities that are not. If you"re not sure about your town, enter your ZIP code above and we"ll let you know.
  • Check your current contract. This is an important step for a few reasons. Before you switch, you want to be prepared with all the information you"ll need to make an informed decision. This includes: Your current provider"s name, your rate per kilowatt hour (kWh), any early termination fees. Your provider"s name and your rate can be found on your contract or on your last monthly bill, which likely looks something like this example. On your bill, the rate is listed in the section called "Energy Charges," "Supply Charges," or "Generation Charges." You"ll need to look in your contract for the early termination fees. If you switch close enough to the end of your contract, you will usually not have to pay a fee.
  • Compare energy companies and electric rates. Now that you have the information you need, you"re ready to shop around. When you enter your ZIP code above, we"ll show you current rates available in your area. Filter by type of rate, provider, or contract length to narrow your options. For more information about plan types, see our guide to understanding electric plan options. For more information about how the Choose Texas Power marketplace works, click here.
  • Choose your plan with confidence. When you find a plan you like, you can sign up over the phone or online right here. We won"t send you to another website to complete sign up, and we"ll work with your new provider to make sure your transition goes smoothly.

Texas Electricity Switching FAQ

What happens if I break my electricity contract early in Texas?

If you choose to cancel your Texas electricity contract before the term length ends, you may incur an Early Termination Fee (ETF). Most Texas electricity providers charge between $150 and $300 for early contract cancellation, though the exact amount varies by provider and contract term. However, there are legal exceptions: Texas law allows you to cancel your contract without any penalty when you are moving to a new address ??" simply provide proof of your change of address. You can also switch penalty-free within about 14 days before your contract expires. Learn more about your options on our Switch Electricity Provider page.

Will my electricity automatically renew at a higher rate if I don't switch?

Yes, if you do not act before your Texas electricity contract expires, you will typically be placed in a default variable rate product. A default variable rate product can be 50% or more expensive than your previous fixed-rate plan, and rates fluctuate month to month with wholesale market pricing. Your provider is required to notify you before your contract ends, giving you a window to shop and switch without penalty ??" typically up to 14 days before expiration. To avoid being rolled onto an expensive variable plan, set a reminder to compare rates before your contract ends. Visit our Switch Electricity Provider page and browse current offers on our Electricity Rates page.

Can I cancel my electricity enrollment within 3 days if I change my mind?

Yes, in Texas and most other deregulated states, you are given two or three business days to cancel your electricity contract without penalty after signing up. This is commonly referred to as the rescission period. To cancel, contact your provider directly within this window and inform them you wish to rescind the enrollment. After this grace period, standard Early Termination Fees will apply if you cancel before the contract end date (unless you are moving). Learn more about your rights and options on our Switch Electricity Provider page.

How do I switch electricity providers if I'm already under contract?

If you are already under contract and want to switch electricity providers, you have a few options. The Early Termination Fee (ETF) for your Texas electricity contract varies by provider and contract term, but typically ranges from $150 to $300. You can switch without penalty if you are moving (Texas law requires no ETF with proof of address change), within approximately 14 days of your contract expiration, or if your provider materially changes your contract terms. In some cases, the savings from switching to a lower rate may outweigh the cost of the ETF. Visit our Switch Electricity Provider page and compare current offers on our Electricity Rates page.

How do I switch electricity providers when my lease is only 6 months?

If your lease is only 6 months, you have good options in Texas. Many providers offer six-month options as short-term electricity plans, which align your contract end date with your lease expiration so you can switch or cancel without incurring an early termination fee. Alternatively, a prepaid month-to-month plan requires no contract at all and lets you switch providers anytime without penalty. When selecting a short-term plan, factor in the rate and whether it is fixed or variable, since variable-rate short-term plans can spike in summer months. Explore short-term plans on our Switch Electricity Provider page and review providers like Payless Power for no-contract options.