What are utility companies in Texas?
In the deregulated Texas energy market, utility companies operate the power grid in their assigned areas. Utilities are responsible for transporting and delivering electricity to homes and businesses and restoring power during an outage. Keep reading to learn more about your Texas utility company.
Utility companies vs. energy providers
Utility companies and energy providers play different roles in the deregulated energy market. Since utilities manage a specific area, your location predetermines your utility company. However, deregulation allows you to choose your energy provider from a competitive market. The power to choose an energy company benefits consumers because they can compare providers and rates to find the best plan.
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Texas utility companies
Texas has five main utility companies. Browse a few plans and rates available in each utility’s service area to get an idea of several options available to you.
AEP Texas Central
Founded: 1906
Service areas: Corpus Christi, McAllen, Harlingen, Victoria, Laredo
Report an outage: 1-866-223-8508
| Provider | Plan | Rate at 1,000 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Gexa Energy | Eco Saver Plus 12 | 10.7 cents per kWh |
| Frontier Utilities | Saver Plus 24 | 10.7 cents per kWh |
| 4Change Energy | Maxx Saver Select 12 | 10.7 cents per kWh |
AEP Texas North
Founded: 1927
Service areas: Abilene, Albany, Alpine, Marfa, San Angelo, Vernon
Report an outage: 1-866-223-8508
| Provider | Plan | Rate at 1,000 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Gexa Energy | Eco Saver Plus 12 | 12.6 cents per kWh |
| 4Change Energy | Maxx Saver Select 24 | 12.6 cents per kWh |
| TXU Energy | Smart Edge 12 | 16.0 cents per kWh |
CenterPoint Energy
Founded: 1866
Service areas: Houston metropolitan area
Report an outage: 1-800-332-7143
| Provider | Plan | Rate at 1,000 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Express Energy | Flash 12 | 10.7 cents per kWh |
| Frontier Utilities | Saver Plus 24 | 11.6 cents per kWh |
| Discount Power | Bill Credit Bundle 12 | 10.9 cents per kWh |
Oncor Electric Delivery
Founded: 1912
Service areas: Dallas-Fort Worth, Tyler, Waco, Midland, Odessa, Wichita Falls
Report an outage: 1-888-313-4747
| Provider | Plan | Rate at 1,000 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| 4Change Energy | Maxx Saver Select 12 | 10.4 cents per kWh |
| Gexa Energy | Eco Saver Plus 24 | 10.4 cents per kWh |
| TXU Energy | Smart Edge 12 | 14.9 cents per kWh |
Texas-New Mexico Power
Founded: 1934
Service areas: Dickinson, Texas City, Fort Stockton, Friendswood, Lewisville, West Columbia, Clifton
Report an outage: 1-888-866-7456
| Provider | Plan | Rate at 1,000 kWh |
|---|---|---|
| Gexa Energy | Eco Saver Plus 12 | 12.5 cents per kWh |
| 4Change Energy | Maxx Saver Select 12 | 12.5 cents per kWh |
| TXU Energy | Smart Edge 12 | 16.5 cents per kWh |
Know your utility’s TDU delivery charge
Utility companies charge a fee for delivering electricity to your home, called a TDU delivery charge. The TDU charge will appear on your bill in addition to your electricity charges from the electric company and local taxes. Your utility company charges the same delivery fee to each customer in its service area, regardless of who your provider is. This fee officially changes twice per year on March 1 and September 1. Here are the current TDU delivery charges per utility company:
| Utility company |
Base charge per billing cycle |
Charge per kWh |
|---|---|---|
| AEP Texas North | $3.22 | 5.7659 cents |
| AEP Texas Central | $3.22 | 5.8770 cents |
| CenterPoint Energy | $4.39 | 5.3509 cents |
| Oncor Electric Delivery | $4.23 | 5.2974 cents |
| Texas-New Mexico Power | $7.85 | 6.4135 cents |
Note: These rates are current at the time of writing for February 2025. Rates are set to change on March 1.
Texas utility FAQs
How do I know which electric utility company serves my area?
You can find your utility company on your latest electricity bill. If you are moving to a new city in Texas, you can check available providers and plans in your area by entering your new ZIP code or calling our energy team.
Who do I call if my power goes out?
Call your utility company to report a power outage, as utilities are responsible for restoring power to your home and maintaining electrical lines. You can find your utility company’s phone number on your electricity bill.
Where do I find my utility’s delivery charges?
Your delivery charge will be stated on your electricity bill. These charges change twice a year in March and September but otherwise should remain consistent. If you notice a discrepancy on your bill, call your energy provider, as it handles your electric account and billing.
