Same-day electricity is offered by many Texas retail electricity providers (REPs) across deregulated areas of the state. This means your power can be turned on the same day you sign up for an energy plan, if you complete enrollment before the REP’s designated cutoff time (varies by provider). Same-day electricity is a quick way to get power if you’re moving into a new place, switching providers, or need your service reconnected fast. However, keep in mind that additional charges may apply.
Same-day electricity works through a fast connection process between your electricity provider and the local utility company. When you enroll in a plan, your provider sends an electronic request to your area’s utility to start service at your address. If your home has a smart meter, the utility can remotely activate your power without a technician or extra equipment.
Once the request is submitted, the utility verifies your identity, checks the meter status, and confirms that the property is ready for connection. After approval, they send a remote signal to the smart meter to turn on your electricity, usually within minutes to a few hours.
Power Wizard’s energy experts have compiled a list of some of the most popular providers in the state that offer same-day electricity service.
| Provider | Cutoff Time | Service Days |
|---|---|---|
| Gexa Energy | 2:00 PM CT | Monday–Friday; no weekends or holidays |
| Payless Power | 5:00 PM CT | Monday–Friday |
| Reliant Energy | 5:00 PM CT | Monday–Saturday; no holidays |
| Amigo Energy | 12:00 PM CT | Monday–Saturday |
| 4Change Energy | 3:00 PM CT | Monday–Saturday |
| Veteran Energy | 3:00 PM CT | Monday–Saturday |
| TXU Energy | 6:30 PM CT | Monday–Friday |
| Express Energy | 3:00 PM CT | Monday–Friday |
| TriEagle Energy | 2:00 PM CT | Monday–Sunday |
Even though same-day electricity is available in most deregulated areas, a few key factors determine how quickly your lights turn on after you enroll. Understanding these can help you avoid delays and make sure your power starts when you need it.
You cannot get same-day electricity activation without a smart meter. These are digital meters that enable your utility company to remotely turn power on or off. If your home doesn’t have a smart meter, the connection process takes longer because a crew must visit your property to start service manually.
Every REP that offers same-day service has a set cutoff window. If you complete enrollment before that time, your activation request is usually processed the same day. Enroll after the cutoff, and your service will likely start the next business day.
Same-day service generally runs during standard business hours. If you enroll on a weekend, holiday, or after hours, your connection may be delayed until the next available service window. Providers also occasionally perform system maintenance that can temporarily pause same-day activations.
Texas residents can get same-day power in most deregulated areas and major cities, including:
Finding same-day electricity in Texas is easy, but choosing the right provider takes a little more attention. Some REPs promise quick setup, but that doesn’t always mean your power will turn on right away. The actual activation time depends on the provider’s processes, your location, and when you enroll.
Before signing up, it’s important to read the plan details carefully. Some “same-day” services include immediate activation once your information is verified, while others may take several hours or start the next business day. Checking the provider’s cutoff time and any connection fees can help you avoid surprises.
Same-day electricity isn’t just for homeowners. Many businesses and apartment renters in Texas can also have their power turned on quickly, but the process may look a little different.
Businesses can often qualify for same-day electricity, but the setup process may take longer than it does for homes. Commercial electricity accounts typically require extra steps like business verification, credit checks, or a deposit before service can start. Because business meters often pull more power, utility companies may need to confirm meter readiness and load capacity before activating service. Submitting all required documents early in the day helps speed up approval and increase the chance of same-day connection.
Apartments with smart meters can usually be connected just as fast as single-family homes. As long as the unit’s meter is accessible and not tied to a master meter system, your provider can activate service remotely once your enrollment is complete. Be sure to check with your leasing office or property manager before enrolling, as some apartment complexes have preferred providers or setup procedures that must be followed before power can be switched on.
Getting your power turned on the same day is convenient, but it’s important to understand the costs and terms that come with it. Same-day setup involves two potential costs: connection fees and activation fees, which come from different companies.
Your local Transmission and Distribution Utility (TDU)—such as Oncor, CenterPoint, AEP, or TNMP—handles the physical connection of electricity to your home. They may charge a connection fee when starting or restoring service. This fee typically ranges from $0 to $25, but can be higher in certain situations. For example, if you request same-day service after the provider’s cutoff time (around 2 p.m.), some TDUs may apply an after-hours connection fee of around $150.
Your electricity provider may also include a small activation fee to process your enrollment and communicate with the TDU. This cost can vary depending on the provider and your location. Some plans include a first-day usage credit to help offset this cost, while others may waive it entirely.
Every plan in Texas includes an Electricity Facts Label document that breaks down the exact terms of your service. It lists key details such as:
You will not find information in the EFL regarding same-day activation or connection fees. However, reading the EFL before enrolling helps you understand the true price of your electricity plan, not just the advertised rate. It’s the best way to compare options and avoid unexpected charges once your power is on.
Same-day electricity is a great option if you need power fast. Whether you’re moving into a new home, reopening a business, or just don’t want to wait for standard service, same-day activation offers convenience and flexibility when time matters most. It lets you start using power within hours instead of days, giving you instant peace of mind.
Power Wizard makes it easier to find and compare same-day electricity options in one place. All you have to do is:
That’s it! Your new electricity provider will handle the rest.
Yes, some electricity providers offer same-day no-deposit electricity plans. These are pay-as-you-go plans in which you add money to your account ahead of time and use electricity until your account balance runs out.
The latest you can sign up for power depends on the electricity provider you choose. Gexa Energy, for example, only offers same-day activation if you enroll before 2 PM CT Monday through Saturday, while TXU Energy offers it until 6:30 PM CT Monday through Friday.
If your home already has a smart meter, switching can be quick. You’ll choose a new plan, complete enrollment before the cutoff, and your new provider will send a switch request to your utility company. Enter your ZIP code into Power Wizard’s smart comparison tool to get started.
Same-day electricity setup is usually available Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Some providers may process weekend requests for an additional fee, but many delay activation until the next business day if utility offices are closed.
To start same-day electricity service, you’ll need a few key pieces of information ready to complete your enrollment quickly:
