Texas Utilities: Electricity and Natural Gas
Texas has a unique utility landscape compared to many other states. Much of Texas is part of a deregulated electricity market, which means customers can choose their electricity supplier while utilities continue to handle delivery and infrastructure. Natural gas utilities also serve different regions of the state, ensuring reliable energy access for homes and businesses. Below is an overview of Texas utilities and the most common customer questions.
Electric Utilities in Texas
Oncor Electric Delivery
Oncor is the largest electric utility in Texas, serving the Dallas-Fort Worth area and many surrounding communities.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-888-313-6862
- Outage Reporting: 1-888-313-4747
CenterPoint Energy Electric
CenterPoint provides electric delivery in the Houston metropolitan area.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-800-332-7143
- Outage Reporting: 1-800-332-7143
AEP Texas
AEP Texas serves much of south and west Texas, including Corpus Christi and the Rio Grande Valley.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-877-373-4858
- Outage Reporting: 1-866-223-8508
Texas-New Mexico Power (TNMP)
TNMP provides electric delivery service to smaller communities across Texas.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-888-866-7456
- Outage Reporting: 1-888-866-7456
Natural Gas Utilities in Texas
Atmos Energy
Atmos Energy is one of the largest natural gas utilities in Texas, serving much of the state.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-888-286-6700
- Gas Emergency: 1-866-322-8667
CenterPoint Energy Gas
CenterPoint provides natural gas service in Houston and other regions of Texas.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-800-752-8036
- Gas Emergency: 1-888-876-5786
Texas Gas Service
Texas Gas Service provides natural gas to Austin, El Paso, and surrounding communities.
- Customer Service Phone: 1-800-700-2443
- Gas Emergency: 1-800-959-5325
Top 5 Customer FAQs for Texas Utilities
1. How do I start new service?
In deregulated electricity areas, you choose a Retail Electric Provider (REP) for your supply plan. The local utility (such as Oncor or CenterPoint) still delivers your power. For natural gas, call your gas utility directly.
2. How do I report a power outage or gas leak?
Outages and emergencies are always handled by your local utility, not your REP. Gas leaks should be reported immediately by phone, never online.
3. What payment options are available?
Retail Electric Providers and gas utilities typically offer online bill pay, mobile apps, phone payments, automatic payments, and in-person payment centers.
4. Can I choose my electricity or gas supplier in Texas?
Yes. Most of Texas has deregulated electricity, meaning you can shop for electricity supply rates. Natural gas is also deregulated in some areas. Utilities still manage delivery and emergencies.
5. What if I have a billing dispute?
Contact your Retail Electric Provider for electricity supply issues. If unresolved, you may file a complaint with the Public Utility Commission of Texas. For gas billing disputes, contact your gas provider directly.
Why Understanding Texas Utilities Matters
Texas customers benefit from deregulation, which allows them to shop for electricity and natural gas supply rates, but it also requires them to understand the difference between suppliers and utilities. Knowing which utility serves your region ensures you know who to call for outages, emergencies, or new service. For both homes and businesses, this knowledge is essential for saving money and keeping energy reliable.
