Electricity deregulation involves the unbundling of functions traditionally served only by regulated utilities. Historically, utilities owned and/or controlled the generation, transmission and distribution of electricity. However, customers in deregulated energy markets are now able to choose their own electricity supplier. The transmission and distribution functions are still regulated and as such will still be controlled by the local utility. Electricity deregulation enables you to shop for the optimal electricity product, whether based on low price, price certainty or other factors important to your business.

Retail choice is offered in states with deregulated markets where retail competition is provided. This gives customers the right to purchase energy from competitive suppliers, like Think Energy. Competitive retail suppliers provide a variety of service plans that give consumers flexibility in their energy purchases. Many provide products that help protect residential and commercial customers from price changes in the market. They also provide more choices for alternative energy resources, newer energy efficiency projects, and other services. Ultimately, retail choice allows consumers to choose the services that best meet their needs.

Your local utility is responsible for operating and maintaining the electricity delivery system, like the poles and wires that deliver electricity to your home or business and reading your meter. Your utility will continue to respond to any service calls and emergencies.

If you know your usage, we can help you calculate an estimated bill. After you’ve put in your zip code on our home page, click the ‘Calculate Your Bill’ link under the term description for the plan you’re interested in. A pop-up will appear. Input your specific monthly usage in the box and click ‘Calculate’. This will show your estimated average bill, which includes our energy charge and the utility’s TDSP charges. Please note that you may be subject to nonrecurring charges that are not included in the estimated bill average.

If you’re not sure how much electricity you’ll use in your new home, it’s best to keep it simple with a low fixed rate.

If you are moving to a new address or need power turned on at your location, you will need to select a move-in. A standard move-in can take up to 5 business days if a meter is already installed. A future start date will take place on the day that you choose. If you need power within 24-48 business hours, select a priority move-in. There may be an additional charge from your utility for selecting a priority move-in.

If you are currently receiving electricity at your residence and considering changing providers, you can request a switch. A standard switch takes between 3-5 business days. A self-selected switch date will take place on the day that you choose, but there may be an additional charge from your utility for selecting this option.

If you’re a Texas customer, you will receive your electricity bill from Think Energy after your account becomes active. The bill will include our charge for your energy consumption as well as TDSP charges from your local utility company.

If you are not located in Texas, you will continue to receive your regular bill from the local utility company every month. Think Energy will show as a line item on your bill once your switch has been completed. This line item includes your energy charges plus applicable taxes. You will continue to be charged by the utility for distribution related charges.