Texas has had energy deregulation since 1999, and almost all Houston residents and the majority of Texans (85%) can choose their electricity provider. Those who cannot choose their electricity provider — called Retail Electric Providers (REPs) locally — are supplied by local utility companies. There are more than 120 electricity companies (REPs) in Texas, and people in deregulated areas must choose a supplier.
Another essential acronym is the TDU, which is your Transmission and Distribution Utility. A TDU is responsible for delivering electricity from the power plant to your home and measuring usage. They are not your electricity company, though. You contact your TDU when there is a power outage or for line or pole emergencies.