How to Switch Electricity Providers in Texas

Texas gives residents the power to choose their electricity provider. If you're wondering how to switch electricity providers in Texas, the process is simpler than you might think.

You can change your Retail Electric Provider (REP) at any time, usually without service interruption. Switching REPs can help you find a better rate or plan that fits your needs, especially if your current contract is about to expire.

Fortunately for you as a Sunrun customer, we have done the research and found which REP is best paired with your solar system. 

Let’s walk through what REPs are, why it matters to understand the difference between REPs and TDUs, and how to switch your provider with confidence.

What is a Retail Electric Provider (REP)?

In Texas’s deregulated electricity market, Retail Electric Providers (REPs) sell electricity plans to customers. They handle billing, plan rates, and customer service. Unlike Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDUs), REPs don’t maintain power lines or restore service during outages.

Each REP offers different rate structures, including fixed, variable, and renewable energy plans.

Sunrun has partnered with specific REPs to get the right rates and plan for solar customers – which will be the best choice for you.

Why switch electricity providers?

Here are a few common reasons Texas residents switch REPs:

• Lower electricity rates

• Better plan terms or contract lengths

• Renewable energy options

• Poor customer service with a current provider

Shopping for a new REP before your current contract ends can help you avoid unexpected rate hikes or rollover pricing.

How to switch electricity providers in Texas

Switching your REP is a straightforward process:

1. Check your current contract
   Look for early termination fees and the contract end date.

2. Select our recommended provider
   Insert recommendations based on agreement type

3. Enroll online or by phone
   Your new REP will coordinate the switch with your local TDU.

4. Wait for confirmation
   You’ll receive a confirmation of the switch, usually effective within 1 to 7 business days—or on your chosen future start date.

5. Let Sunrun know which REP you’re on

Visit <this page> to update your REP with Sunrun, and they will update your battery settings to get you the best benefits

Will I lose power during the switch?

No, your electricity service stays on during the transition. The power lines and meters are managed by your TDU, which stays the same no matter which REP you choose.

Will my Sunrun service work if I’m not on their preferred REP?

Yes, your solar system will still work with a different REP. However, you likely will not get the best rates and benefits from having solar if you’re not on the REP that best compliments your system setup. 

Can I switch providers if I have solar panels?

Yes. If you have solar panels and participate in net metering or solar buyback programs, you’ll want to choose a REP that supports this. Some offer credit for excess energy your system produces—terms vary by provider.

What happens if I don’t pick a new REP when my contract ends?

If your fixed-rate plan expires and you don’t switch or renew, your current provider may move you to a variable month-to-month plan—often with higher rates. Mark your calendar and shop plans before your contract ends.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right electricity provider in Texas helps you take control of your power bill and energy choices. Make sure to get the full benefits of going solar by choosing the right REP.

^Sources

1. ^{Public Utility Commission of Texas – https://www.puc.texas.gov}

2. ^{Energy.gov – https://www.energy.gov}

3. ^{Texas Power to Choose – https://www.powertochoose.org}