Types of Electricity Providers in Texas
Did you know there are different types of electric providers in Texas? Just
because you receive a bill from Company X doesn't mean they provide the
repairs to the electrical lines and poles in your area. This kind of
information is valuable in choosing a provider or knowing who to call during
a power outage.
Some electric companies, known as the local wires company, preserve the
poles and wires that transmit and distribute electricity to your home. They
are responsible for sending out an employee to fix any damages during an
emergency outage. You can identify your local wires company by looking on
your electricity bill.
An affiliate electricity provider is an electric company that was split from
your area's original electric company that produced and sold electricity.
The affiliate, also referred to as the incumbent provider, only sells
electricity and provides customer service.
The competitive retail electric provider offers lower pricing, alternative
energy choices, innovative customer service options and special promotions
to gain your business.
The Provider of Last Resort is always available in the event your electric
company leaves the market for any reason. You will automatically be
transferred to this provider so you won't lose power. Afterwards you can
choose to stay with them or move on to another electricity company.
The city-owned utility is a non-profit electric utility that is owned and
operated by the city. City-owned utilities do not have to allow competition
within a regulated market.
The municipally-owned utility is a non-profit electric utility that is owned
and operated by the municipality. Utilities owned by the municipality do not
have to allow competition within a regulated market.
The pay-as-you-go electricity provider offers a way to pay for your
electricity bill upfront with no IDs, deposits or credit checks necessary.
For consumers with bruised credit, this is a great way to continue powering
your home without the stress of long-term contracts.
http://www.electricitytexas.com/provider_types.html
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