Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDUs) are the companies responsible for moving electricity from power plants to homes and businesses over the grid. In Texas, TDUs own and maintain the high-voltage transmission lines and local distribution networks that deliver power across vast distances and through neighborhoods. They are regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas, and their names—like Oncor, CenterPoint Energy, AEP Texas, and Texas-New Mexico Power—often appear on electric bills as delivery or TDU charges.
Even though you can choose your electricity supplier in competitive areas, the local TDU still maintains the poles, wires, and meters and restores power during outages. For example, a retailer in Dallas may purchase electricity from a competitive Retail Electric Provider, but Oncor is still responsible for delivering the electricity and repairing any downed lines. Similarly, CenterPoint Energy handles distribution for the Houston area; regardless of which REP you select, CenterPoint reads your meter and addresses outages to ensure reliable service.
For access to competitive energy rates and customized electricity plans, explore Texas Commercial Energy Suppliers.