Question 1

How do energy brokers get paid?

Accepted Answer

Brokers are compensated through the supplier, normally as a margin included in the rate the supplier quotes. That is why brokerage carries no separate invoice to the customer. Texas Direct Solar is compensated this way, and we will tell you so before you sign anything.

Question 2

Is Texas Direct Solar a registered electricity broker in Texas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Texas Direct Solar LLC is registered with the Public Utility Commission of Texas as an electricity broker, registration number BR230101. You can verify this in the PUCT Directory of Brokers. We are also a licensed Texas electrical contractor, TECL #34757.

Question 3

How do I verify an energy broker in Texas?

Accepted Answer

Search the PUCT Directory of Brokers at puc.texas.gov. Under Texas law, anyone providing brokerage services for compensation must be registered with the Commission. If a broker is not listed, ask why before signing.

Question 4

What is a demand charge on a commercial electricity bill?

Accepted Answer

A demand charge is billed on your highest rate of consumption during the billing period, measured in kilowatts, rather than on total energy used. On many Houston commercial bills it is a substantial share of the total. Changing your supply rate does not reduce it; changing your peak demand does.

Question 5

Can a broker reduce my demand charges?

Accepted Answer

A broker alone cannot. Demand charges are driven by your facility's peak consumption, not by your rate. Reducing them requires physical measures such as battery storage, load scheduling, power factor correction or on-site generation, which require a licensed electrical contractor.

Question 6

What happens if my commercial electricity contract expires?

Accepted Answer

If a commercial contract lapses without a new agreement in place, service typically continues at a holdover or variable rate that is usually higher than a contracted rate. Beginning the renewal conversation before expiry avoids this.

Question 7

Will switching electricity suppliers interrupt my service?

Accepted Answer

No. Your wires company continues to deliver electricity and to handle outages regardless of which retail supplier you contract with. Switching changes who bills you for energy, not the physical delivery of it.

Question 8

Can my business get paid for reducing electricity usage?

Accepted Answer

Potentially. Demand response programs compensate facilities for reducing consumption during grid events. Eligibility depends on how much load you can curtail and how quickly. We assess this as part of a bill audit.

REAP

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