Electricity in Austin,served by Austin Energy.
Austin proper is served by Austin Energy, a city-owned utility that sets its own rates — there's no retail market to shop in. Since you can't switch providers, the real savings come from how you use power and the programs you tap into.
- Utility
- Austin Energy
- Market
- Regulated
- Provider choice
- Not available
- Best way to save
- Lower usage
Electricity in Austin, explained.
Texas opened most of its electricity market to retail competition in 2002, but municipal utilities and electric co-ops were allowed to opt out. Austin Energy chose to stay regulated, which means rates are set by the Austin City Council instead of by competing retail providers.
If your meter is inside Austin Energy's service area, you can't switch providers — your bill comes from Austin Energy regardless. Rates, tiers, and any green-energy programs are managed directly by the utility.
Where you can shop near Austin. Suburbs just outside the utility's service area sit in the deregulated market — compare live plans and switch providers there.
Common questions about electricity in Austin.
What residents ask about Austin Energy and their bill.