Since the retail electric power market in Texas opened to competition on Jan. 1, 2002, people have begun to hear about deregulation and how electric choice might affect them.

In Central Texas, many consumers buy electric power from municipalities and electric cooperatives — entities that are waiting to decide how to proceed in the new market.

The new rules (see Senate Bill 7) allow community public power providers — unlike investor-owned utilities — the option of opening their markets to competition. And, since the choice to opt in is a permanent one, public power providers want to make sure they make the decision that makes the most sense for their communities and consumers.

LCRA, as a wholesale electric provider, is ready to serve its customers regardless of their decision. It is helping customers get ready for competition, and working to improve awareness of the value its relationship with local utilities brings to communities. It also is gearing up to meet future generation resource requirements.

While the energy crisis that destroyed the deregulated California market in 2001 has faded from the news, Texas hasn't faced the same problems with electricity restructuring. In fact, other states are taking note of what is working in Texas, including ample sources of power. And, LCRA is helping address potential constraints in the statewide electricity grid by expanding transmission facilities so power can go where it is needed when it is needed.

No matter what your utility decides to do, LCRA stands ready to provide reliable power at affordable prices. For more information, contact LCRA.