Energy deregulation is a relatively new phenomenon in Texas. Prior to deregulation, one electric company handled the three basic components of your electrical service: * Generation – the production of electricity * Transmission & Distribution – the actual delivery of electricity across poles and wires to your home or business * Retail Sales – the sale of electricity to end users, coupled with customer service and billing functionsThe generation of electrical power was deregulated in Texas in 1995, bringing with it a greater variety of efficient power source options, such as natural gas, water, wind, solar, nuclear power and coal.The transmission and distribution of electricity across poles and wires is still regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) to ensure the safety and reliability of electric service. Transmission and distribution services are provided by local wires companies that are responsible for the maintenance of poles and wires, as well as for responding to power outages and emergencies.The retail sale of electricity was officially deregulated in 1999, and opened the Texas energy market for competition beginning in January...
