- Oncor delivers power but doesn’t sell it. They maintain Texas’ grid (poles, lines, outages), but you’ll need a Retail Electric Provider (REP) to supply your electricity.
- Delivery charges appear on every bill. These fees (set by the state) are the same no matter which REP you choose.
- Outage support is Oncor’s job. Report outages via their app, text (OUT to 66267), or call (888-313-4747).
- Avoid “Provider of Last Resort” rates. If you don’t pick a REP, Oncor becomes your default supplier at higher, non-competitive rates.
Oncor Electric Delivery is the largest transmission-and-distribution utility (TDU) in Texas. It owns and maintains the poles, wires, substations, and meters that physically deliver electricity to homes and businesses. Oncor does not sell retail electricity plans, that job belongs to Retail Electric Providers (REPs). On a typical bill, Oncor’s portion appears as “delivery,” “wires,” or “TDU” charges because your REP passes Oncor’s regulator-set delivery fees through to you without markup.
Oncor is majority-owned indirectly by Sempra and minority-owned by Texas Transmission Investment LLC. In recent company updates, Sempra highlighted that strong Texas growth, especially data centers and large industrial loads in North Texas, continues to drive Oncor’s grid expansion plans.
Oncor’s Coverage Area
Oncor serves over 10 million Texans across a massive 122,000-square-mile territory, including major metros like Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, Midland, Odessa, and parts of East Texas. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet rural community, chances are Oncor is working behind the scenes to keep your electricity flowing.
What Kind of Energy Does Oncor Deliver?
Oncor delivers electricity generated from a mix of sources, primarily natural gas, wind, and solar, thanks to Texas’ diverse energy grid. Oncor’s electricity comes from a wide range of generators across the ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) market. Recent ERCOT analyses show renewables rising quickly, with wind and solar supplying roughly a third of generation and solar growing especially fast, while natural gas remains the largest single source. In 2024–2025 reporting, solar’s share increased materially and wind remained a major contributor to the Texas mix. While Oncor doesn’t produce power, they ensure it gets to your home efficiently. If you’re passionate about green energy, many REPs offer 100% renewable plans, and Oncor’s infrastructure supports that clean energy delivery.
Renewable energy and conservation efforts
As a wires-only utility, Oncor’s biggest sustainability lever is investing in grid infrastructure that supports more renewable interconnections and battery storage, and improving efficiency and reliability for customers. Company and market updates emphasize substantial capital plans to expand transmission and distribution in step with rapidly growing demand, which enables large amounts of new wind, solar, and storage to connect to the ERCOT system.
Oncor’s long-running efficiency portfolio, smart thermostat promotions, HVAC and insulation incentives, and low-income weatherization, helps reduce overall energy use and peak demand in its territory. These programs are implemented through vetted providers and are updated each year based on funding and regulatory guidance.
Choosing a Retail Electric Provider (REP)
Since Oncor Electric Delivery only handles power transmission (not sales), selecting the right Retail Electric Provider (REP) is the key to controlling your electricity costs, service quality, and even your environmental impact. Here’s why choosing a REP matters, and how to pick the best one for your needs.
1. Avoid High “Provider of Last Resort” (POLR) Rates
If you don’t actively choose a REP, you’ll automatically be placed with Oncor’s emergency backup service (POLR), which charges higher, non-competitive rates. By selecting your own REP, you can:
- Lock in lower market prices
- Avoid surprise rate hikes
- Access better customer service
2. Get Competitive Pricing & Plan Flexibilit
REPs offer a variety of plans to fit different budgets and lifestyles:
- Fixed-Rate Plans: Price stays the same for 12-36 months (great for budgeting).
- Variable-Rate Plans: Fluctuates with market prices (riskier but no long-term contract).
- Prepaid Plans: Pay-as-you-go electricity (no credit check, but higher per-kWh costs).
- Free Nights/Weekends: Discounted or free power during off-peak times (ideal for EV charging).
Example: A fixed-rate plan at 12¢/kWh could save you hundreds per year vs. POLR’s 15¢+ rates.
3. Choose Renewable Energy (If You Want It)
Want to support wind or solar power? Many REPs offer:
- 100% Renewable Plans: Sourced from Texas wind/solar farms.
- Green Energy Certificates: Offset traditional power with renewable credits.
- Solar Buyback Programs: Earn credits for excess solar panel energy.
Eco-Friendly Pick: Providers like Gexa Energy and Champion Energy specialize in clean energy plans.
4. Access Better Customer Service & Perks
Not all REPs are created equal! The right provider can offer:
- 24/7 Customer Support (vs. POLR’s bare-bones service).
- Mobile Apps for billing and usage tracking.
- Loyalty Rewards (bill credits, smart thermostats, etc.).
- No Hidden Fees (some REPs waive deposits or cancellation fees).
Top-Rated REPs: TXU Energy and Reliant score well for customer satisfaction.
5. Customize Your Plan for Your Home’s Needs
- High-Usage Homes: Look for tiered rates or free-night plans.
- Apartments/Renters: Month-to-month or no-deposit options.
- Smart Homes: REPs with energy management tools (like usage alerts).
Top REPs in Oncor’s Territory
1. TXU Energy
A long-trusted Texas brand and Oncor’s original affiliated provider. TXU offers a wide variety of fixed-rate, time-of-use, and renewable plans backed by strong customer support and stability. Best for customers who value brand reputation and plan flexibility.
2. Reliant Energy
Owned by NRG, Reliant combines reliable service with modern account tools, a robust mobile app, and perks like a 90-day satisfaction guarantee on some plans. Ideal for those who want tech-friendly management and peace of mind from a major provider.
3. Gexa Energy
Known for 100% renewable plans and EV-friendly options, Gexa consistently earns strong customer reviews. Their green-energy commitment and transparent pricing make them a great pick for environmentally conscious consumers.
4. 4Change Energy
Texas-based and community-focused, 4Change Energy keeps things simple and affordable. They donate a portion of profits to Texas charities and often have some of the lowest fixed-rate options, making them a strong choice for budget-minded shoppers.
5. Direct Energy
A national provider with a broad plan selection, ranging from straightforward fixed rates to renewable and smart-home bundles. Backed by a large customer base and strong online tools, they appeal to customers seeking reliability and variety.
Key Considerations:
- Price per kWh (watch for hidden fees)
- Contract length (fixed-rate vs. variable-rate)
- Renewable energy options (if going green is a priority)
- Customer reviews (some REPs have better service than others)
Final Tips for Energy Plan Shoppers
- Watch for seasonal rate changes (summer can be pricier).
- Avoid “teaser rates” that spike after a few months.
- Consider bundling (some REPs offer perks like smart home devices or bill credits).
Outages: How to Search and How to Report
Oncor maintains a near-real-time Outage Map and status tools. You can search by address or view area-wide conditions. For reporting and updates, you have multiple options:
- Call Oncor at 888-313-4747.
- Text OUT to 66267 (ONCOR) if you’re enrolled in MyOncor Alerts.
- Report online via Oncor’s outage reporting portal.
- Use the MyOncor Mobile App to report and track status.
Oncor notes that its online map refreshes with new outage information about every 10 minutes, with slower refreshes during heavy traffic.
The MyOncor App: Power at Your Fingertips
The MyOncor app (iOS and Android) lets you report outages, view status updates, manage alerts, and access outage resources in one place. If you prefer text alerts without the app, you can enroll by texting REG to 66267.
Oncor Rebates, Discounts & Incentives
Oncor funds a suite of energy-efficiency programs branded under Take A Load Off Texas. These include instant discounts on smart home devices (like smart thermostats), and incentive programs delivered through participating service providers for insulation, HVAC upgrades, and other efficiency improvements. Programs generally run seasonally and funding is limited each year.
Oncor also runs a Residential Solar program that, in 2025, required paired battery storage and set incentive caps by system size. Program funds can and do sell out; the 2025 residential solar funding was reported as exhausted. Commercial solar incentives are available as well, with eligibility and size limits. Check current program manuals for the latest rules and budgets since they’re refreshed annually.
Check their Energy Efficiency Programs page for current offers, it’s an easy way to cut costs!
Oncor makes sure your electricity arrives safely, your job is just to pick the right REP for your needs. With a little research, you can find a plan that saves money, fits your lifestyle, and maybe even helps the planet.
FAQs About Oncor
What does Oncor do?
What are Oncor Electric Delivery charges?
– Supply Charges (from your REP for the actual electricity).
– Delivery Charges (from Oncor for maintaining and operating the grid).
These delivery fees cover the cost of power lines, transformers, emergency repairs, and grid upgrades. They are regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT), meaning Oncor cannot arbitrarily raise rates without approval. While you can’t shop around for lower delivery charges (they’re the same no matter which REP you choose), you can reduce costs by using energy-efficient appliances or taking advantage of Oncor’s rebate programs.
How can I check for a power outage?
– Online Outage Map: Visit Oncor’s Outage Map for real-time updates on outages in your area.
– Mobile App: Download the free Oncor Outage Alert app (iOS/Android) to track restoration progress.
– Text Alerts: Sign up for outage notifications by texting REG to 66267.
– Phone: Call Oncor’s automated outage line at 1-888-313-4747 for recorded updates.
The map and app often provide estimated restoration times, so you can plan accordingly.
How can I report an outage?
– Text: Send OUT to 66267 (if you’re registered for alerts).
– Call: Dial 1-888-313-4747 and follow the prompts.
– App/Website: Use the Oncor app or website to submit an outage report.
– Social Media: DM Oncor on Twitter (@Oncor) for non-emergency assistance.
Pro Tip: If you see downed power lines, stay far away and call Oncor or 911 immediately, never assume a downed line is safe!
Does Oncor offer any rebates or energy-saving programs?
– Smart Thermostat Rebates: Get up to $50 back for installing a Nest, Ecobee, or other eligible thermostat.
– HVAC & Insulation Rebates: Save on energy-efficient upgrades.
– LED Lighting Discounts: Discounts on bulbs through partnered retailers.
– Energy Efficiency Programs: Free home energy audits and tips.
Why is my bill higher even though Oncor doesn’t sell electricity?
– Grid maintenance or storm recovery costs (approved by PUCT).
– Increased usage (e.g., extreme weather leading to more power demand).
– TDU (Transmission & Distribution) fee adjustments (passed through from Oncor to your REP).
If your bill spikes, compare your REP’s rate and check your kWh usage first.
Can I choose Oncor as my electricity provider?
About the Author
David has been an integral part of some of the biggest utility sites on the internet, including InMyArea.com, HighSpeedInternet.com, BroadbandNow.com, and U.S. News. He brings over 15 years of experience writing about, compiling and analyzing utility data.