Power Education Center

How does prepay electricity work?

Just like it sounds. You pay for your electricity before you use it. With post-pay, which is what you may already be familiar with, you pay at the end of the month when you know your usage.

Post-pay companies often charge a large deposit if you don’t have a great credit score. The theory is that, since your credit isn’t the greatest, you present a higher risk of not paying. So, these companies collect a deposit in case that happens (usually a few hundred dollars, depending on your credit score).

Why choose prepaid (versus post-paid) electricity?

Prepaid electric companies have created their programs for customers who struggle financially. With prepaid electricity, you often don’t need a credit check or big initial deposit to get electricity.

You may pay a small amount down to open your account. But that’s it. Then, you can usually pay-as-you go.

It works if you have a tight budget or unpredictable cash flow. Many companies let you pay as frequently as you want – even daily if that’s what you need to do.

Why is prepay electricity available?

In the early 2000s, Texas deregulated the electricity market. In other words, they opened it up to private competition. This happened instead of having just a single monopoly provider who controlled rates.

The idea was that this would increase competition and drive down rates for Texas consumers.

What happens if I miss a payment?

This is hard to do with Pronto Power. You get daily text and/or email notifications (your choice) of your account balance.

Disconnections begin as early as 8:00 AM.

What if I can’t make a payment on time?

Relax. It happens. Pronto Power is designed to help you out. First, you won’t pay any hidden fees.

Second, when you know you have a cash flow crunch, call us. You can get a free extension that lasts until your next paycheck. You can also get deferred payment plans to help you make it through.

Do I have to worry about hidden fees or other traps?

At many prepaid electric companies, yes. At Pronto Power, no.

Many prepaid electric companies advertise low rates to get you in and then whack you with hidden fees to boost their profits. At Pronto Power, you never pay any hidden fees.

Hidden fees simply don’t exist. And you don’t sign a contract. That means you have no risk. Simply leave and go to another electric company if you’re not happy, for any reason.

Do I save money with Pronto Power? How can I increase my savings?

Many prepaid electric companies use hidden fees to make up for low advertised rates.

At Pronto Power, you get the lowest rates, and there’s no hidden fees. In fact, our customers use 25% less power than the average Texas.