Sign up for PowerCord Energy

• ​Visit https://app.powercordenergy.com 

• Here's a link to a Scribe signup explainer https://share.synthesia.io/86a7e207-799f-4414-816b-02e2c18f3c62

• Here's how easy it is to sign up for electricity service with PowerCord Energy:

  • ​Visit https://app.powercordenergy.com 

  • Enter the email address that you used for your lease application and click the button.

  • This will send a one time password to your email. This ensures no one else can change your plan.  

  • Check your email, then enter that number here.

  • It will take a few moments for the system to download your customized plan and display it on the next screen.

  • As you can see, your electricity plan has your name, unit number, lease start date, and address. Your electricity plan term matches your lease, automatically. Click the button to continue.

  • Here, you will need to select whether you are moving in or already live here.

  • Accept the disclosures.

  • You have an opportunity to download state-required disclosures, and then just click to accept the plan. That's it! Your confirmation number will show on the following page and you'll receive an email as well. You are signed up.

Category 1 – General Questions About PowerCord Energy

1. What is PowerCord Energy?

   PowerCord Energy is a platform that automates tenant electricity onboarding by integrating with property management systems and retail electricity providers (REPs) in deregulated Texas markets.

2. Where does PowerCord Energy operate?

   PowerCord Energy operates only in deregulated Texas electricity markets.

3. How does PowerCord Energy benefit tenants?

   PowerCord Energy simplifies electricity signup, eliminates manual processes, and ensures service begins on the lease start date without tenant intervention.

4. Does PowerCord Energy sell electricity directly to tenants?

   No. PowerCord Energy facilitates enrollment with REPs but does not sell electricity directly.

5. Does PowerCord Energy offer billing services?

   No. Billing is handled directly by the tenant’s REP.

6. Can a landlord require tenants to use a specific REP?

   Yes, if the property has a Continuous Service Agreement (CSA) with a designated REP for lease-synchronized onboarding. This is also true if the property is served by a master meter.

7. Does PowerCord Energy offer both fixed-rate and variable-rate plans?

   PowerCord Energy only offers fixed-rate plans that correspond to the term of the tenant’s lease.

8. Does PowerCord Energy work with all REPs?

   PowerCord Energy partners with selected REPs that meet quality, service, and compliance requirements.

9. How quickly can tenants get electricity service?

   Service starts on the lease start date, automatically initiated through the property management system.

10. Can tenants choose a renewable energy plan?

    Yes. Tenants can select a renewable energy plan if offered by the property’s partner REP.

Category 2 – Lease and Service Activation

1. Can the landlord be charged for electricity after the tenant moves out?

   Yes. Under the Continuous Service Agreement (CSA), the account automatically switches to the landlord’s name during vacancies, and the landlord is billed for any electricity used until a new tenant’s service begins.

2. Is a deposit required for electricity service?

   Credit scores above 600 do not require a deposit. Those below 600 do require a deposit.

3. Does PowerCord Energy integrate with the property management system?

   Yes. PowerCord Energy integrates with the property management service, so a tenant does not need to provide any additional information for service. Signup is a simple four clicks to acknowledge the information and request service.

4. What is the typical contract term for PowerCord Energy service?

   The term of the plan matches the tenant’s lease, up to 36 months.

5. Are there fees for early termination?

   Yes, if the tenant cancels their contract but does not move. No, if the tenant moves out before the lease end date.

6. Can service be started before the lease begins?

   Yes, if required by the landlord or property for preparation or maintenance purposes.

7. Will the power be on when the tenant moves in?

   Yes. The power will be on because of the Continuous Service Agreement (CSA).

8. Does PowerCord Energy allow plan changes during the lease?

   No. Plans are set to match the lease term for stability.

9. Can service be delayed after the lease begins?

   No. Electricity service begins as specified in the lease.

10. Is electricity service a lease requirement?

    Yes. Electricity is a tenant requirement and begins on the lease start date. It has nothing to do with move-in timing.

11. Is a deposit always required? No. Credit scores above 600 do not require a deposit.

12. Can tenants avoid a deposit with a letter of credit? Yes, if accepted by the REP.

13. Does PowerCord Energy perform credit checks?

    No. Credit checks are performed by the REP during enrollment.

14. Can a tenant with poor credit still get service?

    Yes, but they may be required to pay a deposit.

15. Can PowerCord Energy verify service at any time?

    Yes. Because PowerCord Energy is connected to both the REP and landlord, it can verify the service at any time.

16. Does PowerCord Energy share tenant credit scores with landlords?

    No.

17. Will a prior unpaid electricity bill prevent a tenant from getting service?

    No.

18. How is deposit information communicated to tenants?

    The REP provides deposit requirements directly during the signup process.

19. Is the deposit refundable?

    Yes. Deposits are refundable according to REP policy and state regulations.

20. How long does it take to refund a deposit?

    Usually within 30 days of closing the account, depending on the REP.

21. Who sends the monthly electricity bill?

    The tenant’s REP sends the bill directly to the tenant.

22. Does PowerCord Energy handle billing?

    No. Billing is managed entirely by the REP.

23. How can tenants pay their bill?

    Tenants can pay through the REP’s accepted payment channels, such as online portals, phone, mail, or authorized payment centers.

24. Can tenants set up automatic payments?

    Yes, through the REP.

25. Can a tenant view their bill online?

    Yes, through the REP’s website or mobile app.

26. Are paper bills available?

    Yes, if offered by the REP.

27. Are there early termination fees if the tenant moves out early?

    There are no early termination fees for PowerCord Energy customers who move out early.

28. Can tenants change their billing due date?

    Only if allowed by the REP.

29. Does PowerCord Energy charge late fees?

    No. Any late fees come from the REP.

30. Can tenants split electricity bills with roommates?

    No. The account is in one tenant’s name.

31. How can tenants update their billing address?

    Through the REP.

32. Are bills prorated when tenants move in or out mid-month?

    Yes.

33. Does PowerCord Energy process service requests on Sundays?

    REPs do not process on Sunday. They process the next business day.

34. Does PowerCord Energy send payment reminders?

    No. Payment reminders come from the REP.

35. Can tenants get a billing history?

    Yes, from the REP.

36. What should tenants do during a power outage?

    Tenants should contact their Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU), such as Oncor or CenterPoint, for power outages.

37. Are there reconnection fees if service is disconnected?

    Yes, charged by the REP or TDU.

38. Does PowerCord Energy offer payment assistance?

    No, but REPs may offer payment plans or refer tenants to assistance programs.

39. How can tenants check if their payment posted?

    Through the REP’s online portal or customer service.

40. Can tenants receive text alerts for bills?

    Yes, if the REP offers this service.

41. How far in advance should tenants request electricity service?

    With PowerCord Energy, no advance request is necessary because service is triggered automatically through the lease and property management system.

42. Can tenants transfer PowerCord Energy service to a new address?

    Only if the new address is served by PowerCord Energy and is within the deregulated Texas electricity market.

43. What happens to electricity service at move-out?

    PowerCord Energy is tied to the property management system, so billing ends at move-out automatically and service switches to the landlord under the CSA.

44. Do tenants need to notify PowerCord Energy when moving out?

    No. The property management system automatically updates PowerCord Energy when the lease ends.

45. Can tenants schedule an earlier shutoff than the lease end date?

    Only if approved by the landlord and supported by the property management system.

46. Does PowerCord Energy provide a final bill?

    The REP sends the final bill directly to the tenant.

47. What happens if a tenant forgets to cancel service?

    Cancellation is automatic at lease end because of the integration with the property management system.

48. Can tenants keep their REP when moving to a new property?

    Yes, if the new property allows choice of REP and is within the REP’s service area.

49. Does PowerCord Energy coordinate service transfers between properties?

    No. Transfers must be handled by the tenant and the REP.

50. Will tenants lose power on move-out day?

    Power is transferred to the landlord under the CSA, so there is no disruption during the turnover.

Category 3 – Plan Features and Options

1. Can tenants choose their electricity rate type?

   PowerCord Energy only offers fixed-rate plans that correspond to the term of the tenant’s lease.

2. Do REPs offer time-of-use or free nights/weekends plans through PowerCord Energy?

   No. PowerCord Energy offers only fixed-rate lease-synchronized plans.

3. Can tenants switch plans during their lease term?

   No.

4. Are green energy options available?

   Yes, if offered by the partner REP for the property.

5. Can tenants select a plan with a different contract length than their lease?

   No. The plan matches the lease term.

6. Are promotional rates available?

   Only if offered by the partner REP and aligned with the lease term.

7. Can tenants add a roommate’s name to the account?

   Yes, if allowed by the REP, but the primary account holder remains responsible.

8. Does PowerCord Energy guarantee electricity rates for the entire lease term?

   Yes.

9. Are there any hidden fees?

   No.

10. Can tenants sign up for paperless billing?

    Yes, through the REP.

Category 4 – Outages and Reliability

1. Who is responsible for restoring power after an outage?

   The Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU), such as Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP, or TNMP.

2. How do tenants report an outage?

   By contacting their TDU directly.

3. Can PowerCord Energy expedite outage restoration?

   No. Restoration is handled by the TDU.

4. Are outage alerts available?

   Yes, from the TDU if the tenant enrolls.

5. Does PowerCord Energy monitor outages?

   No, but the TDU and REP do.

6. How long do outages typically last?

   It depends on the cause and the TDU’s restoration schedule.

7. Are there planned outages?

   Yes, for maintenance, with advance notice from the TDU.

8. Does PowerCord Energy reimburse for outage-related losses?

   No.

9. Can tenants receive compensation for outages?

   In certain cases under PUCT rules, tenants may be eligible.

10. Are outage maps available?

    Yes, from the TDU’s website.

Category 5 – Energy Usage and Efficiency

1. Does PowerCord Energy provide energy-saving tips?

   No, but REPs and TDUs may.

2. Can tenants track usage online?

   Yes, through the REP’s online tools.

3. Are smart meters used?

   Yes, in all deregulated Texas markets.

4. Does PowerCord Energy adjust rates based on usage?

   No. Rates are fixed.

5. Can tenants lower bills by using less electricity?

   Yes, total costs are based on usage.

6. Can tenants lower costs by shifting usage to off-peak hours?

   No. PowerCord Energy offers fixed-rate plans, so shifting usage to off-peak hours does not reduce costs.

7. Does PowerCord Energy offer energy audits?

   No.

8. Are programmable thermostats helpful for tenants?

   Yes, for managing consumption.

9. Can tenants see historical usage data?

   Yes, through the REP.

10. Does PowerCord Energy install efficiency devices?

    No.

Category 6 – Tenant Rights and Consumer Protections in Texas Electricity

1. Are tenants protected by Texas PUCT rules?

   Yes. Tenants in deregulated markets are protected by PUCT rules.

2. Do tenants have a right to choose their REP?

   Yes, unless the property has a CSA or master meter arrangement.

3. Are electricity rates regulated in Texas?

   No. Rates are set by competitive REPs.

4. Can tenants file complaints about their REP?

   Yes, with the REP directly or with the PUCT.

5. Are tenants entitled to contract disclosures?

   Yes, REPs must provide the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) and Terms of Service.

6. Can tenants cancel a new contract within a certain period?

   Yes, within three days under the right of rescission, unless service has already started.

7. Are deposits regulated in Texas?

   Yes, by PUCT rules.

8. Can tenants request proof of a deposit refund?

   Yes.

9. Are payment assistance programs available?

   Yes, through REPs or state programs.

10. Are REPs required to provide customer service in Spanish?

    Yes, upon request.

Category 7 – How Deregulated Electricity Works in Texas

1. What does it mean that Texas has a deregulated electricity market?

   It means electricity generation and retail supply are open to competition, allowing REPs to offer plans while TDUs deliver the power.

2. Who generates electricity in Texas?

   Independent power producers generate electricity from natural gas, coal, nuclear, wind, solar, and other sources.

3. Who delivers electricity to homes?

   Transmission and Distribution Utilities (TDUs) deliver electricity through the poles and wires in specific service areas.

4. Can tenants choose their TDU?

   No. TDUs are assigned by location.

5. Can tenants choose their REP?

   Yes, unless a CSA or master meter agreement requires a specific REP.

6. What role does ERCOT play?

   The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) manages the state’s electric grid and wholesale market.

7. Are electricity prices the same across Texas?

   No. Prices vary by REP, plan, and usage.

8. Can a tenant’s REP change the rate during a fixed-term contract?

   No, rates remain fixed for the contract term.

9. How do REPs compete for customers?

   They compete on price, plan features, renewable options, and service quality.

10. What happens if a REP goes out of business?

    ERCOT assigns customers to a Provider of Last Resort (POLR) to prevent service interruption.

11. Are all Texas residents in a deregulated market?

    No. Some cities, such as Austin and San Antonio, have regulated municipal utilities.

12. Do tenants pay the TDU directly?

    No. TDU charges are included in the REP’s bill.

13. How often can tenants switch REPs?

    Tenants can switch at the end of their contract without penalties.

14. Are smart meters required in deregulated Texas markets?

    Yes.

15. Can tenants sell back excess solar power?

    Yes, if the REP offers a buyback program.

16. Do REPs need a license to operate in Texas?

    Yes, they must be certified by the PUCT.

17. Is customer service regulated for REPs?

    Yes, REPs must meet certain standards set by the PUCT.

18. Are renewable energy credits used in Texas?

    Yes, to track and verify renewable energy production.

19. Does deregulation affect outage response?

    No. TDUs handle outage restoration regardless of REP.

20. Is the Texas electricity grid connected to other states?

    Mostly no. Texas has its own independent grid managed by ERCOT, with limited connections.

Category 8 – How Power Is Generated and Distributed in Texas

1. What percentage of Texas power comes from wind?

   Texas produces more wind power than any other U.S. state, often exceeding 20% of the grid’s capacity.

2. What fuels are most used for electricity generation in Texas?

   Natural gas, wind, coal, nuclear, and solar.

3. Where are Texas power plants located?

   Across the state, near fuel sources or transmission hubs.

4. What is baseload power?

   Power sources like natural gas, nuclear, or coal that run continuously to meet minimum demand.

5. What is peak demand?

   The highest electricity usage during a specific period, usually summer afternoons in Texas.

6. How is solar power integrated into the Texas grid?

   Through distributed rooftop systems and utility-scale solar farms.

7. What is the role of natural gas in Texas electricity?

   Natural gas provides the largest share of generation and can ramp up quickly to meet demand.

8. How do TDUs maintain reliability?

   By inspecting, repairing, and upgrading poles, wires, and substations.

9. What are renewable energy credits (RECs)?

   Certificates proving electricity was generated from renewable sources.

10. Can extreme weather affect power generation?

    Yes, extreme heat or cold can reduce output or increase demand.

11. How is electricity stored in Texas?

    Primarily through battery systems and limited pumped storage.

12. What is ERCOT’s role in power generation?

    ERCOT balances supply and demand in real time.

13. Does Texas import electricity?

    Rarely, due to limited grid connections with other states.

14. Are there nuclear power plants in Texas?

    Yes, the South Texas Project is the main nuclear facility.

15. How is coal used in Texas power?

    Coal plants provide part of the baseload generation but have declined in recent years.

16. What is distributed generation?

    Small-scale generation like rooftop solar or backup generators located close to where electricity is used.

17. Does Texas use hydroelectric power?

    Yes, but only a small amount due to limited large rivers and reservoirs.

18. What is the capacity factor of wind power in Texas?

    It varies but often averages 35–45%.

19. How do weather patterns affect wind generation?

    High wind in spring and fall can boost generation, while summer winds may be weaker.

20. How is electricity dispatched on the Texas grid?

    ERCOT uses a market-based system to select the lowest-cost generation available to meet demand.

Category 9 – Billing and Payments

1. How do tenants receive their electricity bill?

   Directly from the REP.

2. Are payment plans available?

   Yes, if offered by the REP.

3. Can tenants pay bills online?

   Yes, most REPs offer online payment options.

4. Are auto-pay options available?

   Yes.

5. Can tenants pay by check?

   Yes, if the REP allows.

6. Are late fees regulated in Texas?

   Yes, by PUCT rules.

7. Can tenants set up budget billing?

   Yes, if offered by the REP.

8. Are deposits applied to the final bill?

   Yes, deposits are applied to the final balance or refunded.

9. Can tenants receive bills by mail?

   Yes, if requested.

10. Are bill payment locations available?

    Yes, depending on the REP’s arrangements.

11. Do all tenants have to pay a deposit for electricity service?

    No, credit scores above 600 do not require a deposit. Those below 600 do require a deposit.

12. How much are electricity deposits in Texas?

    The amount is determined by the REP based on PUCT rules.

13. Can deposits be waived?

    Yes, in cases such as satisfactory credit history, certain age or medical conditions, or prior good payment history.

14. Are deposit amounts regulated?

    Yes, under PUCT guidelines.

15. Can tenants pay deposits in installments?

    Yes, if the deposit exceeds a certain amount under PUCT rules.

16. Are deposits refundable?

    Yes, after 12 months of on-time payments or at the end of service.

17. How are deposits refunded?

    Deposits are applied to the final bill or refunded by check or electronic payment.

18. Can tenants use a letter of credit to avoid a deposit?

    Yes, if it meets REP and PUCT requirements.

19. Do REPs check credit before service starts?

    Yes, REPs perform a credit check to determine deposit requirements.

20. Can tenants with no credit history get service?

    Yes, but a deposit may be required.

Category 10 – Understanding the PowerCord Energy Process

1. How does PowerCord Energy start service for tenants?

   Service is triggered automatically based on the lease data in the property management system.

2. Do tenants need to complete an application for PowerCord Energy?

   Yes, but everyone is approved. Sign-up is a simple four clicks to acknowledge information and request service.

3. Is PowerCord Energy available outside Texas?

   No, PowerCord Energy operates only in deregulated Texas electricity markets.

4. Does PowerCord Energy handle billing?

   No, billing is handled by the REP.

5. Can tenants choose their own REP through PowerCord Energy?

   No, the REP is determined by the property’s CSA or master meter arrangement.

6. Are rates the same for all tenants in a property using PowerCord Energy?

   Yes, all tenants on the same plan pay the same fixed rate.

7. Does PowerCord Energy offer variable rate plans?

   No, only fixed rate plans matching lease terms.

8. Does PowerCord Energy offer renewable energy plans?

   Yes, if the property’s partner REP offers them.

9. How does PowerCord Energy benefit tenants?

   It provides automatic enrollment, fixed lease-aligned rates, and no risk of missed start dates or service gaps.

10. Can tenants opt out of PowerCord Energy?

    Only if the property allows individual REP choice.

11. How do I know if I will be approved for PowerCord Energy? Everyone is approved. No one is denied.

12. What if my credit score is low? Credit scores below 600 are approved, but will require a security deposit. 

13. What credit score (FICO) do I need to avoid a deposit? No deposit is required for credit scores above 600.

Category 11 – Consumer Protections and Disputes

1. How can tenants file a complaint about their REP?

   By contacting the REP first, and then the PUCT if unresolved.

2. Are REPs required to investigate complaints?

   Yes, under PUCT rules.

3. How long do REPs have to respond to complaints?

   Within 21 days, under PUCT rules.

4. Can tenants dispute a bill?

   Yes, by contacting the REP directly.

5. Can service be disconnected during a billing dispute?

   Not if the tenant has paid the undisputed portion of the bill.

6. Are there rules about when REPs can disconnect service?

   Yes, disconnections cannot occur during extreme weather or for certain protected customers.

7. Can tenants get service reconnected after disconnection?

   Yes, by paying the required amounts and any reconnection fees.

8. Are reconnection fees regulated?

   Yes, by PUCT rules.

9. Can tenants request deferred payment arrangements?

   Yes, in certain circumstances under PUCT rules.

10. Do REPs have to notify tenants before disconnecting service?

    Yes, written notice is required.

Category 12 – Understanding Contracts and Early Termination

1. What is a fixed-rate electricity plan?

   A plan where the price per kWh remains the same for the entire contract term.

2. What happens if a tenant ends their lease early?

   There are no early termination fees for PowerCord Energy customers who move out early.

3. Are early termination fees regulated?

   Yes, by PUCT rules.

4. Do tenants pay early termination fees if they move out?

   No, not with PowerCord Energy.

5. Do tenants pay early termination fees if they cancel service but stay in the unit?

   Yes, if they cancel without moving out.

6. Can tenants terminate service at any time?

   Yes, but early termination fees may apply unless moving out.

7. Are contract terms negotiable?

   Not for standard PowerCord Energy lease-synchronized plans.

8. Are contracts automatically renewed?

   No, new service is triggered with each new lease.

9. Do tenants sign a separate electricity contract?

   No, the electricity contract is embedded in the lease process.

10. Can tenants review contract terms before service starts?

    Yes, REPs must provide the Electricity Facts Label and Terms of Service.

Category 13 – Special Situations and Exceptions

1. Does PowerCord Energy work with master-metered properties?

   Yes, if the property uses a CSA with the REP.

2. Does PowerCord Energy provide service for commercial tenants?

   No, only residential tenants in multifamily properties.

3. Can tenants in short-term leases use PowerCord Energy?

   Yes, plans match the lease term.

4. Does PowerCord Energy serve single-family homes?

   No, only multifamily housing in participating properties.

5. Can PowerCord Energy work with student housing?

   Yes, if the property uses a qualifying property management system.

6. Are sublets covered by PowerCord Energy?

   Yes, if the sublet is recorded in the property management system.

7. Can tenants use PowerCord Energy without internet access?

   Yes, enrollment is triggered through the property management system, not dependent on tenant internet access.

8. Does PowerCord Energy require tenant consent for enrollment?

   Yes, tenants must acknowledge and request service.

9. Are there any properties where PowerCord Energy is not available?

   Yes, properties outside the deregulated Texas market or without compatible property management systems.

10. Can tenants request a different start date than their lease start?

    No, electricity starts on the lease start date.

Category 14 – Power Generation in Texas

1. How is electricity generated in Texas?

   Electricity is generated from natural gas, wind, coal, solar, and nuclear sources.

2. What is the largest source of power in Texas?

   Natural gas provides the largest share of electricity generation.

3. Does Texas lead the nation in wind power?

   Yes, Texas produces more wind power than any other state.

4. Is solar power growing in Texas?

   Yes, Texas is one of the fastest-growing states for solar capacity.

5. Where are most wind farms located in Texas?

   In West Texas and the Panhandle region.

6. Are there nuclear power plants in Texas?

   Yes, the South Texas Project and Comanche Peak plants produce nuclear energy.

7. Does Texas import electricity from other states?

   Rarely, as Texas operates its own independent grid.

8. Can Texas export electricity?

   Yes, but limited by interconnections to other grids.

9. Does Texas use coal for electricity?

   Yes, though its share is declining.

10. Is hydropower used in Texas?

    Yes, but it makes up a very small portion of the mix.

11. How does natural gas generation work?

    Natural gas is burned to produce steam or drive turbines for electricity.

12. How do wind turbines generate electricity?

    Blades turn a rotor connected to a generator, producing electricity.

13. How does solar power work?

    Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity using photovoltaic cells.

14. What role does biomass play in Texas electricity?

    It uses organic material to produce power but is a small contributor.

15. Does ERCOT control power plants?

    No, ERCOT manages grid operations, not generation assets.

16. Do weather events affect generation?

    Yes, extreme cold or heat can impact generation capacity.

17. Can renewable energy supply all of Texas’s electricity?

    Not yet, but capacity is growing.

18. Do power plants in Texas have to meet emissions standards?

    Yes, they are regulated for environmental compliance.

19. How is nuclear waste handled in Texas?

    It is stored securely on-site at plants.

20. Does Texas have energy storage facilities?

    Yes, battery storage is expanding to support renewable energy.

Category 15 – Electricity Distribution in Texas

1. How is electricity delivered to homes in Texas?

   Through high-voltage transmission lines and local distribution lines managed by TDUs.

2. What are TDUs?

   Transmission and Distribution Utilities that deliver electricity from power plants to customers.

3. Who are the main TDUs in Texas?

   Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP Texas, and Texas-New Mexico Power.

4. Can tenants choose their TDU?

   No, TDUs are assigned based on location.

5. Do TDUs set electricity prices?

   No, they only charge regulated delivery fees.

6. Who maintains power lines in Texas?

   TDUs maintain and repair lines.

7. Can TDUs enter private property?

   Yes, for maintenance and repairs.

8. Who restores power after an outage?

   TDUs handle outage restoration.

9. Can tenants call their REP for outage issues?

   No, tenants should contact their TDU directly.

10. How are TDUs regulated?

    By the Public Utility Commission of Texas.

11. Can TDUs upgrade infrastructure without tenant approval?

    Yes, as part of their maintenance obligations.

12. Are smart meters owned by the TDU?

    Yes, TDUs install and own smart meters.

13. Do smart meters require internet?

    No, they communicate through secure wireless networks.

14. Can TDUs shut off power for safety?

    Yes, during emergencies or maintenance.

15. Are TDUs responsible for streetlights?

    Yes, in most areas.

16. Do TDUs charge for reconnection after outages?

    No, reconnection fees apply only for disconnections due to nonpayment.

17. How quickly do TDUs respond to outages?

    Response times vary based on severity and location.

18. Can tenants track outage status?

    Yes, through the TDU’s online outage maps.

19. Are TDU delivery charges the same for all REPs?

    Yes, delivery charges are regulated and identical regardless of REP.

20. Can TDUs refuse service?

    No, they must serve all customers in their service area.

Category 16 – General Knowledge for Tenants

1. What is ERCOT?

   The Electric Reliability Council of Texas, which manages the flow of electricity for most of Texas.

2. Why does Texas have its own power grid?

   To operate independently from federal regulation of interstate electricity.

3. Does deregulation affect reliability?

   No, TDUs maintain reliability regardless of retail market competition.

4. Are electricity prices in Texas competitive?

   Yes, in deregulated areas tenants can benefit from competition among REPs.

5. Can tenants switch REPs at any time?

   Not under PowerCord Energy; service is tied to lease terms.​

6. Are there protections for medically vulnerable customers?

   Yes, special programs prevent disconnection during certain conditions.

7. Can tenants generate their own electricity?

   Yes, with landlord approval and appropriate equipment.

8. Is electricity service in Texas pre-paid or post-paid?

   Most plans are post-paid, though pre-paid options exist.

9. How does PowerCord Energy simplify tenant electricity service?

   By integrating with the property management system to automatically start and stop service in sync with lease dates, ensuring no service gaps, no unnecessary deposits for qualifying tenants, and fixed-rate plans aligned to lease terms in deregulated Texas markets.

​

Contact:

PowerCord Energy, LLC

3400 N. Central Expwy, Stes. 110-277

Richardson, Texas  75080

Call or Text: 214-831-6510

Email: info@powercordenergy.com

Knowledge Base: docs.powercordenergy.com