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How to Start Electricity Service

Graham Griffin

Graham Griffin

senior-writer

How to Start Electricity Service

Moving to a new home in Texas is exciting but comes with a lengthy to-do list. One of the most critical tasks is setting up your electricity service.

Choosing the right electric company and plan in a deregulated energy market with over 60 providers offering hundreds of plans can feel overwhelming.

But don't worry - starting your electricity service doesn't have to be stressful. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to get your power up and running smoothly.

Buying a new house and remembered at the last minute I didn't have an electric company. Enrolled and was able to get power the next day which was my closing date! Fantastic!

Step-by-Step Guide

Shopping Considerations

Once you're familiar with the steps, let's dive into some shopping considerations to help you make an informed decision:

  • Same-day service: Do you need power today? Most providers' cut-off for a same-day connection is 2 p.m. See which providers can connect electricity service today.
  • Satisfaction Guarantee: It's natural to worry about making the wrong choice. That's why we recommend starting with a plan that offers a satisfaction guarantee. If you're unhappy with your choice, you can always make a change.
  • Usage Credits: Consider opting for a plan without usage credits initially. While these can lead to substantial savings, they require a consistent usage pattern to be effective. This could be a gamble without a clear understanding of your home's usage history.
  • Fixed-Rate Energy Plans: Fixed-rate energy plans are popular in Texas as they provide budgeting stability and protect you from extreme weather conditions. However, if market prices fall, you may be stuck at a higher rate until your contract expires.
  • Term Lengths: Choose a contract term length that suits your needs. In Texas, you can cancel your electricity contract when you move out of a residence, so don't worry if you move before your contract ends.
  • Early Termination Fees: Please note that early termination fees may apply to specific fixed-rate plans with long-term contracts. Always read the contract carefully!
  • Deposits: Some plans may require a deposit. Just remember that a no-deposit electricity option is always available.

With these steps and considerations, you can quickly get new electricity service for your new home.

We're always here to help. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact us at your convenience.

Check out your full moving-in checklist in Texas

Learn how to choose the right electric company for your home:

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are there different prices for different usage levels?

The electricity rate is the total cost divided by the energy you use. It's how you're charged for electricity in Texas, which can vary depending on your monthly usage. Unlike gas, where you pay the same per gallon regardless of how much you use, electricity costs can fluctuate. So, knowing your monthly energy use is key when choosing a new energy plan in Texas.

Why are there so many plans to choose from?

Since 2002, Texas has had a deregulated energy market with over 60 electricity companies and hundreds of energy plans. It can be overwhelming to choose the right one. However, Compare Power simplifies this process, providing tools and filters to help you find the best energy plan that fits your needs.