January 15, 2003—The Alliance for Retail Markets (ARM), a group of competitive electricity providers serving Texas consumers is heralding the first year of the Texas Electric Choice program as a success. The coalition which includes: Green Mountain Energy Company; Constellation NewEnergy, Inc.; Strategic Energy; Utility Choice Electric; Smart Energy; Republic Power; and APS Energy Services cites higher than expected switching levels, consumer savings, and a robust competitive landscape as reasons for success.
The commercial and industrial market was very active last year, with more than 80,000 customers switching providers in 2002. Through August, 2002 commercial and industrial customers have saved an estimated $645 million as a result of retail customer choice.
Looking forward to 2003, ARM is optimistic that the market will continue to thrive and mature. ARM continues to support the restructuring legislation passed in 1999 because it has provided a solid framework for electric choice, although there are some aspects of the law that could be improved. ARM is committed to working with the PUCT and other groups to strengthen the law where appropriate in order to ensure that all market participants, especially consumers, can have confidence in the Texas electric market.
