Continuing Pilot Program for Some Texas Customers
Electric Choice began in January 2002 for most customers of investor-owned electric utilities in Texas. For some customers, however, full implementation of Electric Choice has been delayed and existing pilot programs will continue.

The Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) and the local utilities agree that it is in customers' best interest to delay the introduction of Customer Choice in some areas of the state, including the areas served by AEP-Southwestern Electric Power (AEP-SWEPCO) and a small area served by WTU Retail Energy. The PUCT, AEP and others want additional time to ensure that all systems and processes are in place to allow fair competition to proceed while assuring reliable customer service.

The delay of full competition will impact customers as outlined here.

Mutual Energy SPP

• The delay affects only about 7,200 customers located in Childress, Collingsworth, Donley, Hall and Wheeler counties.
• Mutual Energy SWEPCO LP, doing business as Mutual Energy SPP, provides service to these customers, while AEP's Texas North Company continues to deliver that power to homes and businesses.
• Mutual Energy SPP bills these customers on regulated rates as approved by the PUCT.

AEP-Southwestern Electric Power

• The delay affects all AEP-SWEPCO customers in Texas.
• AEP-SWEPCO will continue to serve these customers under regulated rates approved by the PUCT.