Moving to Texas? A 10-Minute Guide to Setting Up Your Electricity

Introduction

Welcome to Texas! Whether you're relocating for work, family, or just seeking adventure in the Lone Star State, one thing might surprise you: choosing your own electricity provider.

Unlike most states where you're stuck with a single utility company, many Texas addresses have retail electric choice, which means you can pick from many providers. Great for savings and choice—but potentially overwhelming if you're new to it.

Don't worry. This guide will have you set up in 10 minutes.

Understanding Texas Electricity Deregulation

Since 2002, many areas of Texas have had retail electric choice. Where it applies:

• You choose your provider: many retail electricity companies compete for your business
• Competitive pricing: Providers offer different rates, contract terms, and features
• Same reliable delivery: Regardless of provider, the local utility (TDU) maintains the lines and delivers power

Where Deregulation Applies

Retail choice is available in many Texas areas, including:

• Houston
• Dallas-Fort Worth
• Corpus Christi
• And many more cities—check our service areas

Exceptions: Areas served by city-owned utilities (such as Austin Energy and CPS Energy in San Antonio) and many electric co-ops don't offer retail choice, and parts of East Texas, the Panhandle and El Paso are outside the competitive market. Eligibility is checked by address.

Step-by-Step Setup

Step 1: Confirm Your Service Area

First, confirm that your exact address can choose an electricity provider. This depends on the utility that delivers power to that address, not on your ZIP code or on being in ERCOT.

1. Identify the utility serving your exact address. It's on a recent bill, or ask your landlord, property manager or builder.
2. Confirm whether that address has retail choice. Areas served by city-owned utilities and many electric co-ops don't; if you're unsure, ask the utility.
3. Once eligibility is confirmed, you can compare plans on Power to Choose, the Public Utility Commission of Texas shopping site.
4. To check whether Ambit serves your address, enter it in the Ambit sign-up or call (361) 788-3521. You can also browse our Texas city guides.

Step 2: Research Providers and Plans

Now the fun part—shopping for electricity. Consider:

Rate Types:

• Fixed Rate: Locked price for your contract term (12-24 months typical)
• Variable Rate: Price changes monthly with market conditions
• Indexed Rate: Tied to wholesale market indices

Contract Length:

• Short-term (3-6 months): Flexibility, but often higher rates
• Medium-term (12 months): Balance of price lock and flexibility
• Long-term (24-36 months): Best rates, but less flexibility

Features to Compare:

• Price per kWh at your expected usage level
• Base charges and fees
• Renewable energy percentage
• Customer service ratings
• Early termination fees

Step 3: Sign Up Online

Once you've chosen a plan:

1. Visit the provider's website or sign up through our platform
2. Enter your new service address
3. Select your move-in date (service can start as soon as same-day in some cases)
4. Provide identification (driver's license or SSN)
5. Complete payment setup (credit card or bank account)

The whole process takes 10-15 minutes.

Step 4: Handle the Deposit (or Avoid It)

Some providers require a deposit for new customers, depending on the customer and the plan. However, you can often waive the deposit by:

• Having good credit (usually 650+ credit score)
• Providing a letter of credit from your previous utility
• Choosing a prepaid electricity plan
• Enrolling in autopay

Step 5: Confirm Your Start Date

After signing up, you'll receive:

• Confirmation email with your contract details
• Your Electricity Facts Label (EFL)
• Terms of Service document
• Expected service start date

Pro Tip: For move-ins, schedule your electricity to start 1-2 days before you arrive. This ensures power is on when you need it.

Common New Resident Questions

Do I need to contact the old provider?

No. Your new provider handles everything. The only exception: if you're taking over service from a previous tenant who's still active, they'll need to cancel their service first.

Will there be a service interruption?

Not typically. In most cases, you'll have continuous service. If the home has been vacant and disconnected, reconnection usually happens within 24-48 hours.

What if I'm building a new home?

New construction requires coordination with the TDU (local utility) for meter installation. Once the meter is set, you can choose a retail provider if the address has retail choice. Confirm with your utility or builder first.

Can I switch providers after I sign up?

Absolutely. If you find a better deal or aren't satisfied, you can switch providers anytime. Just watch for early termination fees on fixed-rate contracts.

Tips for New Texans

1. Don't Rush Your First Decision

Many providers offer short-term intro rates. Consider a 3-6 month contract initially while you learn your actual usage patterns and the Texas market.

2. Expect Higher Summer Bills

Texas summers are intense. Air conditioning can double or triple your electricity usage from June to September. A typical Texas home uses 1,200-2,000 kWh monthly in summer vs. 600-900 kWh in mild months.

3. Understand Your TDU

Your TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) is separate from your retail provider. They maintain the power lines, handle outages, and read your meter. Know who your TDU is (Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP, etc.) for outage reporting.

4. Register for Smart Meter Texas

Visit SmartMeterTexas.com after you're set up. This free service lets you view real-time energy usage, which helps you understand your patterns and choose better plans in the future.

Get Started

Ready to set up your Texas electricity? We make it easy:

1. Check rates and plans for your new address
2. Compare options using your expected usage
3. Sign up online in minutes

Questions about finding the right plan? Contact us for free, no-pressure guidance.

And if you're moving for business, check out our commercial electricity options for your new Texas location.

Welcome to Texas—and to electricity freedom!