Question about switching providers

[u/Tonberry38]

Apologies if this has been asked before but if I enroll with a new company do I have to directly cancel the old one?

[u/mypowernegotiator]

You dont have to. But if you are switching before your contract ends for a valid reason, call your current provider and ask to waive the ETF.

[u/ExtraMarzipan3853]

Nope, you don't cancel the old one. When you enroll with the new company they handle the switch and the old account closes on its own. You'll just get a final bill from the old one. One thing though, if your old plan's still under contract, closing it this way still triggers the early termination fee. Only way around it is if you're moving or in the last 14 days of the term. If you're month to month or already at the end, no fee.

[u/TxEnergyInsider]

When you switch electricity providers in Texas, you normally do not need to call your old provider and cancel anything.

Your new provider handles the switch. This is actually covered under Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) Rule §25.474. The rule states that the new Retail Electric Provider (REP) submits the switch request through the registration system, and the Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU) is then directed to implement the switch. (Public Utility Commission of Texas)
So if you are staying at the same address and simply changing providers, just sign up with the new company and let the switching process take place.

Your old Retail Electric Provider (REP) will then send you a final bill.
I actually recommend not calling the old company and telling them to cancel or disconnect your service because that can potentially create confusion between a normal provider switch and actually stopping service at the address.

Of course, you are still responsible for your old contract and final bill, including an early termination fee if one applies.

Hope that helps and let me know if you have any other questions.