If you’re wondering who your electric provider is, you’re not alone. Whether you’re moving to a new home, experiencing a power outage, or shopping for better rates, knowing who provides your electricity is essential. Your ZIP code determines not just your electric provider, but also whether you have the power to choose from multiple options or are assigned a default utility company.
This guide explains how to quickly find your electricity provider, how deregulation affects your choices, and what steps you can take to find the best plan for your needs. We’ll also look at examples in key ZIP codes like Houston and Dallas to help you understand what options are available near you.
Why Your ZIP Code Matters for Electric Service
Your ZIP code plays a major role in determining what energy services are available to you. In states like Texas, some areas are deregulated, which means you can choose from dozens of retail electricity providers (REPs). As of 2025, there are over 130 registered REPs operating in Texas’s competitive market. In regulated areas, you only have one assigned provider, typically a utility or electric cooperative.
For example, ZIP codes in Houston (77002, 77009) fall within a deregulated energy market. Residents can choose their electricity provider while CenterPoint Energy maintains the delivery infrastructure. Meanwhile, parts of San Antonio (78201) are regulated, and CPS Energy handles both supply and delivery.
Find Your Electric Provider by ZIP in 3 Simple Steps
The fastest way to determine your provider is to use a ZIP code search. Here’s how:
Step 1: Determine if Your Area Is Deregulated
In a deregulated market, consumers can shop for electricity. Texas is the largest deregulated market in the U.S., but only about 85% of the state participates. Use your state’s public utility commission (PUC) or Department of Energy website to check if your ZIP code is deregulated.
Step 2: Use a ZIP Code Lookup Tool
Enter your ZIP code into a comparison platform like UtilitiesNow.com to view available electricity providers in your area. You’ll see REPs offering various electricity plans, pricing, and features. These tools also help identify the transmission and distribution utility (TDU) that manages your power lines.
Step 3: Compare Plans and Providers
Once you’ve found providers in your area, compare their electricity rates, contract terms, renewable energy options, and customer reviews. Look for:
- Fixed-rate plans: Lock in a stable rate per kWh.
- Variable-rate plans: Rates that fluctuate with the market, ideal for short-term flexibility.
- Renewable energy plans: Choose solar or wind-backed energy to reduce your carbon footprint.
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Local Examples by ZIP Code in Texas
Knowing your provider by ZIP code can help you avoid confusion and make smarter decisions about your electric service. Here are some examples:
Houston (77002, 77009)
- Utility: CenterPoint Energy (handles outages and infrastructure)
- REPs include: Reliant, Gexa Energy ,Payless Power
- Market: Deregulated
Want help choosing a provider in Houston? Check out our guide to the best Houston providers for local plan comparisons, provider insights, and tips for finding the lowest electricity rates in the 770xx area.
Dallas (75201, 75206)
- Utility: Oncor
- REPs include: TXU Energy ,Payless Power, Direct Energy
- Market: Deregulated
Need help finding the right electric company in Dallas? Visit our full breakdown of the top electricity providers in Dallas and advice for choosing the best provider in your 75xxx ZIP code.
San Antonio (78201)
- Utility & Provider: CPS Energy
- Market: Regulated (no choice of REP)
Since this is a regulated market, use your ZIP code to find who your default provider is.
Utility Companies vs. Electricity Providers: What’s the Difference?
In deregulated markets, your electric service is split between two entities:
- Utility company (TDU): They maintain power lines, respond to outages, and handle meter readings.
- Retail electricity provider (REP): This entity sells electricity plans, handles billing, and offers customer service.
Even though you select your REP, your utility still delivers the electricity to your home and charges a delivery fee on your electric bill.
What if I Live in a Regulated Market?
In regulated ZIP codes, you do not have a choice of providers. Your electricity and natural gas services are handled by the designated utility or electric cooperative. This is common in rural parts of Texas and states like New York or Pennsylvania outside major cities.
If you live in a regulated area, use your ZIP code to find your default provider for billing and outages. While you can’t shop for rates, you can still take steps to lower your electric bill by improving energy efficiency, turning off lights when you leave the room, and monitoring your kWh usage.
Moving? How To Set Up Electric and Gas Utility Service
If you’re moving into a new home, it’s important to set up electric and natural gas utilities ahead of time. Here’s how:
- Check for deregulation: Confirm if your new ZIP code allows choice.
- Compare plans: Use Utilities Now to evaluate options and pricing.
- Contact your utility: Arrange for the connection and confirm the move-in date.
Also, consider bundling services if available, and look into energy-efficient appliances to reduce long-term costs.
FAQ
We answer common questions about finding your electricity provider.
How do I find out who my electric provider is by ZIP code?
The fastest way to locate your electric utility company or retail electricity provider is to use a ZIP code lookup tool, such as the one available on Utilities Now. When you enter your ZIP code, the tool will show which transmission and distribution utility (TDU) manages your power lines, as well as any retail electricity providers (REPs) that serve your area if you live in a deregulated energy market. This ZIP-based lookup is the most accurate way to identify your electric service, compare electricity rates, and explore available energy plans, including renewable energy options.
Can I change my electric provider in Texas?
Yes, if your ZIP code is in a deregulated area of Texas. Most major cities, such as Dallas, Houston, and Fort Worth, are deregulated, allowing residents to choose from multiple retail electricity providers. By entering your ZIP code, you can compare electricity plans, kWh rates, renewable energy plans, and contract terms from different energy providers to find the best option for your budget and usage needs. If you are in a regulated ZIP code, your electricity will be provided by the local utility company, and switching service providers is not permitted.
What if my ZIP code only has one provider?
If your ZIP code shows only one electric provider, then you’re located in a regulated utility service area. In regulated regions, energy deregulation does not apply, and electricity is delivered exclusively by your designated public utility company or electric cooperative. While you cannot switch providers, you can still manage your electricity bill by monitoring kWh usage, exploring energy efficiency programs, or contacting your utility for available rate options.
Who do I contact if there’s a power outage?
For outages, downed power lines, or service interruptions, always contact your utility company, also known as your TDU, not your retail electricity provider. Utilities like CenterPoint Energy or Oncor are responsible for maintaining electrical infrastructure, restoring power, and reporting outage status. REPs handle billing and energy plans, but they do not manage the physical delivery of electricity. Your electric bill will typically list contact information for both your REP and your utility company.
Can I choose a gas provider the same way?
In many deregulated natural gas markets, you can choose your gas provider using the same ZIP code lookup method. Entering your ZIP code will show whether your service area offers competitive natural gas plans from different providers or if your natural gas service is regulated by a single gas utility. Just like with electricity, comparing natural gas rates, delivery charges, and contract terms can help you lower your overall utility costs.
Conclusion
Your ZIP code determines everything from the electric provider options you have to the utility company responsible for maintaining your power lines. In deregulated areas, like much of Texas, you can shop around and choose a provider that fits your lifestyle, whether you value affordability, renewable energy, or flexible contracts.
With tools like ZIP code lookup platforms and comparison guides, Utilities Now makes it easy to find your electricity provider, explore energy plans, and make smarter decisions about your electric service. Whether you’re relocating, experiencing outages, or just looking for a better deal, understanding your service area is the first step to energy confidence.