In the past decade, a lot of states have had to face the tough decision on whether or not to deregulate their energy markets. Texas is one of those states and it has been a hot topic for debate. But what does this mean? What are your options? How does it affect you as a Texas resident? In today’s blog post, we’ll take a look at all these questions and more!
Deregulation: Before and After
Before deregulation, power companies were required by law to provide consumers with electricity generated from natural gas or water/steam heated turbines. These methods were known as “vertically integrated utilities” because they included every step from producing the fuel source to selling that energy to the end consumer. These utilities were subject to prevailing state public utility commissions that regulated rates, allowed for easy switching among providers, and ensured low electricity prices through strict oversight.
After deregulation, the old “vertically integrated” model is replaced by a patchwork of “competitive power markets.” In addition, wholesale power markets allow power generators to compete with each other in order to sell their services directly to retail electric suppliers (RES), who then compete on re-sale pricing. Retailers typically source their energy supply from large wholesale providers or Energy Service Companies (ESCOs), which purchase power on the wholesale market while selling it at “negotiated contract prices.”
What Is Energy Deregulation?
Today, most states have energy deregulation laws that are similar to the original model adopted by Texas. Under these policies, electricity market participants can choose their own suppliers from a decentralized wholesale market or negotiate their own price with an ESCO. Each state has its own unique set of rules governing this process depending on how much choice consumers are given in determining their energy providers and rates.
Deregulation gives the power of choice to the consumer by allowing them to pick their electricity provider. That means more options for you, which could lead to lower prices!
What Are My Energy Options?
Not all states have the same energy options; therefore, you should discuss with a Texas Energy Broker to see what’s available and best for your needs.
Texas has adopted a deregulated market where consumers can choose between Retail Suppliers (REPs) who sell electricity supply or ESCOs that buy and resell it. REP prices are typically based on market price while ESCO prices are usually fixed but sometimes include a variable rate.
Services such as Energy Outlet are here to help assist Texas residents in sorting through all the available electricity provider options. We make it easy for you to compare provider options and find the perfect solution for your home.
How Does Energy Deregulation Affect Texas Energy Plans and Rates?
Energy deregulation gives you the power to choose when it comes to picking your energy supplier, meaning means options and the opportunity to find low electricity rates!
In a competitive power market, energy rates will vary depending on the wholesale electricity prices which are driven by demand and natural gas prices. If you’re considering switching providers, it’s important to understand that there is no single “best” electricity provider– your best option depends on your usage patterns.
Deregulation Allows For Electricity Choice
One of the biggest benefits of deregulated markets is that customers get 24/7 access to competitive electricity rates, meaning you can shop for electricity any time: day or night. You can compare electricity providers and sign up online in just a few minutes.
With some energy providers, signing up can be as easy as filling out an online form with your contact information and even taking advantage of “instant enrollment” right on some provider websites like Energy Outlet. We allow you to complete the whole process right from our site. Enter your zip code, compare plans and providers in your city, choose the best plan for your home, and enroll today!
