OPUC represents our state's millions of residential and small commercial consumers as a class in electric, water, wastewater, and telecommunications industries.

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Compact with Texans

The Office of Public Utility Counsel will provide high quality legal and technical services to residential and small business utility consumers, as a class, in cases and projects before the Public Utility Commission, State Office of Administrative Hearings and state and federal courts. We are committed to service and leadership that exemplifies the highest standard of ethical behavior, professionalism, and accountability. Customer Service Principles and Standards Provide professional quality services. Serve the public with respect, concern, and courtesy. Provide helpful and accurate information that is easily accessible to customers. Respond to public contacts within 1 business day. Respond to written…

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Announcement: OPUC’s 2024 Annual Meeting

The Office of Public Utility Counsel’s Annual Meeting will be on December 12th, 2024 at 1:00PM (CT) at the Texas Capitol. Full speaker list to be announced. OPUC’s Annual Meeting is open to the Public. Location: Texas Capitol Extension Auditorium E1.004 Virtual attendance available through Microsoft Teams. Please email: opuc_customer@opuc.texas.gov to request the invite! For additional information or to request special assistance, please email opuc_customer@opuc.texas.gov or call 512-936-7500. Per Texas Utilities Code 13.061 & 13.064, the Office of Public Utility Counsel is required to hold an annual meeting each year.  

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Governor Abbott Appoints Barkley as Chief Executive & Public Counsel of OPUC

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Benjamin Barkley as Chief Executive and Public Counsel of the Office of Public Utility Counsel (OPUC) for a term set to expire on February 1, 2025. Benjamin Barkley of Austin is an assistant general counsel for the Office of the Governor (OOG). Previously, he served as a policy advisor for the OOG, general counsel and committee clerk to a Texas State Senator, and as an assistant district attorney for the Fort Bend County District Attorney’s Office. He is a member of the State Bar of Texas. Barkley received a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science…

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What we do for you:

The Office of Public Utility Counsel (OPUC) was created by the Texas Legislature in 1983 to represent the interests of residential and small commercial consumers, as a class, in utility proceedings in Texas.

bill-assistance

Representation and Advocacy

OPUC represents residential and small commercial consumers in electric, water, wastewater, and telecommunication utility matters before the Public Utility Commission and the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) to protect consumer interests.

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Telephone Payment Assistance

OPUC’s Annual Reports

OPUC provides their Annual Reports, Strategic Plans, and more reports publicly for residential consumers.

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Low Income Support

Consumer Resources

OPUC can connect consumers with financial resources, help resolve issues with utility provides, and educate consumers about utility regulation in Texas. We also provide self-help options and information online to get you started.

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Monitor Live Grid Conditions

OPUC monitors grid conditions in the ERCOT region and weather conditions across the state. If you’re experiencing an outage and need assistance, we can put you in touch with your utility provider, help find resources in your area, and provide information you need to stay safe.

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Consumer Tips

OPUC is actively assisting residential consumers who have received high electricity bills.

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OPUC Annual Meeting

The Office of Public Utility Counsel will conduct our 2024 Annual Meeting on December 12th, 2024 at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas. For more information on how to participate and attend click on this button below.

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