Dive Brief:

• Despite the fact that complaints are up since Texas deregulated its electricity market in 2002, Texans complained less than any year since deregulation in 2013, according to a study by the Texas Coalition for Affordable Power. 
• For the fiscal year that ended Aug. 31, there were 7,129 complaints filed with the Public Utility Commission of Texas. That compares with 2,062 in 2001 before deregulation.
• After deregulation, Texans were able to shop for retail electricity at varying prices and contract terms. Power distribution remains regulated. 

Dive Insight: 

The drop in complaints likely reflects the steady drop in the price of natural gas (and therefore retail prices), which is the fuel source for a large amount of Texas generation. However, state data shows "continuing dissatisfaction relating to billing and customer service" since deregulation, said Randy Moravec with the Texas Coalition for Affordable Power.