TDU (Transmission and Distribution Utility) charges are a significant component of your electricity bill in Texas's deregulated market. CenterPoint, as the TDU for the Houston area, charges these fees for delivering electricity to your home.
Understanding TDU charges is essential because they're the same regardless of which retail electricity provider you choose.
What Are TDU Charges?
CenterPoint's TDU charges cover:
- Transmission: Moving electricity from power plants to local substations
- Distribution: Delivering electricity from substations to your home
- Metering: Reading and maintaining your electric meter
- Infrastructure: Maintaining poles, wires, and equipment
These charges are regulated by the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT).
TDU Charge Components
CenterPoint's TDU charges typically include:
- Monthly Customer Charge: Fixed fee around $4-6/month
- Delivery Charges: Per-kWh charge (approximately $0.035-0.045/kWh)
- Transmission Charges: Per-kWh charge for high-voltage delivery
Total TDU charges typically add $35-70 to a typical residential bill.
CenterPoint vs. Other TDUs
CenterPoint's TDU charges are slightly higher than some other Texas TDUs:
- CenterPoint serves challenging coastal terrain
- Hurricane hardening adds to infrastructure costs
- Dense urban areas require more underground infrastructure
When comparing plans on PowerToChoose.org, prices already include TDU charges.