Tag Archives: Energy Company in Texas

What is a Rolling Blackout

What is a rolling blackout? It sounds like something intimidating, perhaps a scene from a scary movie, in which something bad might happen. But what is a rolling blackout, really? Consumers in Texas need to know, because it is possible that Texas may experience rolling blackouts this summer.

A simple answer to the question “what is a rolling blackout” is that it’s a deliberate power outage. Sometimes demand for electricity is higher than the available supply, and it is necessary to reduce the load on the system that generates electricity. You may hear about developing nations often struggling with rolling blackouts, but even nations with reliable power supplies are not immune to the problem; peak demand sometimes forces power operators to cut power.

What Is A Rolling Blackout1 300x190 What is a Rolling Blackout

What Is A Rolling Blackout

But what is a rolling blackout’s purpose? By deliberately engineering a power cut, operators can lessen the likelihood of damage to the power grid, and to your home or business. An unexpected power outage can have dire consequences for electronics and appliances, and it is sometimes difficult to restore power after a blackout. Rolling blackouts cut the power in an organized manner, as a last resort, to as few customers as possible. Different blocks of the power grid may be scheduled for blackout at different times, so if you know which grid supplies your power, you can find out when you will lose power. You then can prepare by unplugging or turning off electrical devices in advance and perhaps planning to go to the home of a friend or relative in another area. While developing nations sometimes experience rolling blackouts that last for several hours, nations with reliable power supplies try to limit these scheduled power outages to ninety minutes or less. Certain businesses (including medical facilities) can contact their Transmission Distribution Utility (Oncor in DFW area, CenterPoint in Houston area) to request to be added to the exempt list.  Also individuals with vital medical equipment can contact their retail electric provider to request consideration for exemption from the Transmission Distribution Utility.

Texans have experienced rolling blackouts before, and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, or ERCOT, has predicted that there may be more this summer. Because summers in Texas are hot and dry, they are peak times for electricity usage, and because some generators may go offline, there may not be enough power. Consumers are urged to use energy-saving measures whenever possible, especially from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays, to cut down on the need for rolling blackouts.

What is a rolling blackout? It is a hassle, but the annoyance can be lessened if you follow information from the ERCOT Energy Mobile App, which is available in the Apple App Store or Android Market. Fortunately for Texans, the deregulation of energy companies has given consumers the freedom to choose, and many of them are choosing Cirro Energy. Cirro Energy’s local customer service staff provides exceptional customer care, and the company offers low rates and convenient payment options. For more information on Cirro Energy , visit the website or connect with the online community on Facebook and Twitter.

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Choosing a Dependable Energy Company in Texas

Choosing an energy company in Texas is a right that Texas homeowners have had for over a decade. Since deregulation of the industry, Texans have enjoyed the same distribution and transmission systems they have always had, but now competition between companies means better service and lower prices. Of course, every company will present their own advantages, so how can a consumer make the best decision? When you are ready to choose an energy company in Texas, consider these tips:

  • Research each company before you make a decision. Do not go with the first company that comes along, but find out exactly what options are available before you make a decision.
  • Decide on what is important to you.Make a list of things that matter to you, like cost, 24/7 local customer service, green energy, surge protection, etc.,
    energy company in texas 300x200 Choosing a Dependable Energy Company in Texas

    Energy Company In Texas

    and use this list to narrow the field.

  • Make sure the company you are considering is a licensed provider in good standing. You can confirm this by checking the Public Utility Commission of Texas website.
  • Understand the different services available. New technologies bring new types of services, so make sure you have assessed your personal needs and take advantage of options like mobile account service, eBill and free credit card payments.
  • Compare the rates of each local energy company in Texas. Understand the price per kWh, because the lower your price per kWh, the lower your electric bill will be. Ask about current market conditions, and look at both promotional rates and less risky long term fixed prices.
  • Know your company’s background. Working with an electricity supplier that also uses renewable energy sources may be a preference, and knowing the history of your company will give you a sense of its reputation. Do some online research, talk to friends who have used the company, and check with the Better Business Bureau to ensure your company has an A+ rating.  Look for strong financial backing by a Fortune 500 company.
  • Understand the terms of your agreement. Be clear on things like fees for calling customer service or paying with a credit card.  Be aware of any cancellation fees or term commitments .


If you are looking for an energy company in Texas, consider Cirro Energy.  With exceptional customer service, smart money saving plans and online account management, Cirro is the choice of more than one hundred thousand Texans. To learn more about Cirro Energy visit our website. Also, join our community on Facebook and Twitter for more money saving tips and information.

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