Written By: LaLeesha Haynes | Updated On: May 5th, 2025
If you’re shopping for an electricity plan in Texas, you’ve likely heard of Oncor Electric Delivery, the largest electric transmission and distribution utility (TDU) in the state. While Oncor doesn’t sell electricity directly to customers (that’s where Retail Electric Providers, or REPs, come in), they’re the backbone that keeps the lights on, maintaining power lines, substations, and infrastructure across their vast service area. Think of them as the highway system for electricity, they deliver power safely and reliably, no matter which REP you choose.
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. 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.
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
| REP | Plan Types | Renewable Options | Customer Rating (BBB) | Notable Perks | Things to Watch |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TXU Energy | Fixed, Variable, Prepaid | Yes (100% Solar/Wind plans) | A+ | Free nights/weekends, smart thermostat discounts | Higher base rates than competitors |
| Reliant | Fixed, Solar, Month-to-Month | Yes (Green plans available) | A | Truly Free Weekends, home energy reports | Some plans have cancellation fees |
| Gexa Energy | Fixed, Green Energy | 100% Renewable options | B+ | Low introductory rates, EcoSmart plans | Rates can jump after promo period |
| Cirro Energy | Fixed, Variable | Limited green plans | B | Budget-friendly rates, simple contracts | Fewer renewable options |
| Champion Energy | Fixed-rate only | 100% Wind plans | A- | Straightforward pricing, no hidden fees | Less flexible (no variable rates) |
| Frontier Utilities | Fixed, Solar Buyback | Yes (SolarMax plans) | B | Solar incentives, competitive rates | Mixed customer service reviews |
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).
Checking & Reporting Outages
Even the best grid has occasional hiccups. If your power goes out:
- Check for outages: Visit Oncor’s Outage Map (Oncor.com) or use their mobile app for real-time updates.
- Report an outage: Call 888-313-4747, text OUT to 66267, or report via the app. Oncor’s crews work 24/7 to restore power ASAP!
The Oncor App: Power at Your Fingertips
Oncor’s free mobile app (available for iOS and Android) is a game-changer. You can:
- Report and track outages
- Monitor estimated restoration times
- View energy usage trends
- Get alerts for outages in your area
Oncor Rebates, Discounts & Incentives
Looking to save money or upgrade your home’s efficiency? Oncor offers rebates and incentives on:
- Smart thermostats (like Nest or Ecobee)
- Energy-efficient HVAC systems
- LED lighting upgrades
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.