Navigating the Electric Utility Landscape in Texas
In Texas, electric deregulation has granted customers the power to choose their retail electric providers (REPs), fostering a competitive environment that encourages lower prices. However, electric utilities (TDUs), which manage the transmission and distribution of electricity, remain regulated entities.
As a result, customers cannot switch their utilities. To help you better understand this landscape, we'll delve into the top five electric utilities in Texas and their roles in the market, as well as how their services impact the lives of millions of Texans.
Oncor Electric Delivery Company
Oncor Electric Delivery Company is the largest electric utility in Texas, delivering power to over 10 million Texans across a vast service area of 134,000 square miles. With a workforce of more than 4,000 employees, Oncor is dedicated to maintaining its expansive 139,000 miles of power lines and ensuring reliable electricity for its customers. Its service area includes major cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, Midland, and Odessa.
Centerpoint Energy
CenterPoint Energy is a Houston-based electric utility that provides power to approximately 2.4 million customers in the Greater Houston area. The company takes pride in its commitment to delivering safe, reliable energy and has invested significantly in advanced grid technology and smart meters to enhance its infrastructure and services. Apart from Houston, CenterPoint serves surrounding areas like Sugar Land, Baytown, and Galveston.
AEP Central Texas
AEP Texas Central, serving South and Central Texas, supplies electricity to over 950,000 residential and business customers. Established in 1925, AEP Central Texas is a subsidiary of American Electric Power, a major utility company in the U.S. The utility operates around 43,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines in its service area, which includes cities like Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, and Victoria.
AEP Texas North
AEP Texas North, an electric utility catering to Central, Northern, and Western Texas, delivers electricity to more than 200,000 customers. With a history dating back to 1917, AEP Texas North manages over 19,000 miles of transmission and distribution lines, ensuring reliable power for the communities it serves. The utility provides service to areas like Abilene, San Angelo, Alpine, and Vernon.
Texas New Mexico Power
Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP) is a reputable electric utility that provides electricity to over 240,000 customers across 28 counties in Texas. Established in 1935, TNMP maintains around 15,000 miles of power lines and distribution wires, striving to offer reliable energy services to communities like Angleton, Lewisville, Texas City, and Dickinson.
Taking Control of Your Energy with Ladybug
By understanding the role and importance of electric utilities in Texas, you can make more informed decisions about your energy consumption. While you cannot switch your utility, you can choose your electricity provider and plan.
Ladybug Energy empowers you to compare rates and find the best options for your specific needs. Just input your zip code in our search bar and take advantage of the competitive Texas energy market, making a well-informed decision for your home or business.