Setting up power and comparing electric companies in Waco, TX can be confusing because Texas handles electricity differently from most states. This guide explains how service works in the Waco area, the difference between the utility that maintains the lines and the retail provider you pay, and the official tools for checking your specific address.
How electricity service works in Texas
Much of Texas has a “retail choice” market where you pick a Retail Electric Provider (REP), while a separate regulated utility (a “transmission and distribution utility”) owns the poles and wires and handles outages. Some areas — including parts served by municipally owned utilities and electric cooperatives — are not deregulated and have a single provider.
Whether your specific Waco address has a choice of retail providers depends on which utility or cooperative serves it, so it’s important to check your address rather than assume.
Checking providers for your address
The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) runs the official “Power to Choose” site to compare retail electric plans in deregulated areas. If your address is served by a cooperative or municipal utility, you’ll enroll directly with that provider instead.
Start by identifying the utility or cooperative for your address, then use the official resources below to compare or enroll.
Frequently asked questions
Can I choose my electric provider in Waco?
It depends on your address. Deregulated areas let you pick a retail provider via the PUCT’s Power to Choose; areas served by a cooperative or municipal utility have a single provider.
How do I set up electricity in Waco?
Identify the utility or cooperative serving your address, then either compare retail plans on Power to Choose (if deregulated) or enroll directly with your cooperative or municipal utility.
Last verified September 19, 2026
Details like hours, prices, routes, boundaries, and availability can change. This page is provided for general information — always confirm current details with the official source before you rely on them.