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Retail Electricity Provider

REP

A licensed company in Texas that sells electricity plans directly to residential consumers and manages customer billing.

Full Technical Definition

In Texas's competitive electric market, Retail Electricity Providers (REPs)—such as TXU Energy, Reliant Energy, Gexa Energy, and Octopus Energy—purchase wholesale power from generator plants via ERCOT and sell retail electricity plans to end consumers. REPs set contract prices, issue monthly energy bills, and manage customer accounts.

Real-World Texas Example

Consumers choose their REP based on plan rates and contract terms, while the underlying physical wires are always maintained by the regional TDU (e.g. CenterPoint).

Standard Mathematical FormulaPUCT REP Certification = Mandatory Licensing under 16 TAC § 25.107
Authoritative Source: Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT)GEO Verified Evidence

Frequently Asked Questions

Can my REP cut off power lines if there is a storm?

No. REPs manage billing and plan rates. Physical line repairs and power outages are handled exclusively by your local TDU (CenterPoint/Oncor).