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In the past, one company
provided all parts of
your electric service (generation, transmission and
distribution, and retail sales). With
competition, these parts are separated.
The actual delivery of
electricity across poles
and wires to your home is
called transmission and
distribution. These services
are provided to you by the
local wires company, which is responsible for
maintaining the poles and wires, and responding
to emergencies and power outages as
always. The PUC continues to regulate the delivery
of electricity to ensure the safety and reliability
of your electric service.
With electric competition, Retail
Electric Providers
(REPs) sell electricity to you and provide
functions such as customer service and
billing. REPs compete for your business by
offering lower prices, renewable energy options,
added customer service benefits or other
incentives.
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"The
basic concept of energy deregulation in Texas is to develop a
better service for the customer by creating a climate of
competition."
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current provider will no longer be a provider. Your
current utilities company will no longer provide
all-in-one power generation, transmission/distribution,
and retail energy services. You will purchase your
electricity from one of Texas' Retail Electric Providers
(REPs) - entities that are separate from Power
Generating Companies (PGCs) and
Transmission/Distribution Service Providers (TDSPs).
Every REP is a
"new kid in town." Energy being sold by
Retail Electric Providers is a new facet in the Texas
energy market. Although some REPs bear similar names to
pre-deregulation utility companies, they are
newly-formed entities. The first Texas REP was certified
by the Texas PUC in November 2000.
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| You can
choose what is best for you. With a new competitive
retail market opened, you can now make the choice as to
which REP will best serve your particular energy needs. |
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