Since month-to-month prepaid electricity works on a model where the customer pays ahead before using power and usage is deducted from that balance, under normal conditions, if the balance runs out and isn’t replenished, the provider can cut off service. This rule is the same as any electric plan.
However, under 16 Tex. Admin. Code § 25.29, regulated electricity providers (in the territory covered by the rule) are not allowed to disconnect customers for nonpayment on days when certain “extreme weather emergency” conditions apply. Public Utility Commission of Texas
Specifically, the rule prohibits disconnection on any day when either:
- The previous day’s highest temperature did not exceed 32° F (freezing) — and the temperature is forecast to remain at or below 32° F for the next 24 hours, based on the nearest National Weather Service (NWS) forecast for the county.
- The NWS issues a heat advisory for the county (or for one of the two preceding calendar days).
When these conditions apply — whether due to extreme cold or extreme heat — providers must also offer residential customers a deferred payment plan for bills that become due during the weather emergency.
That means even prepaid customers may be protected: if their provider is subject to these PUCT rules, and an extreme-weather condition is declared or forecast, then nonpayment alone cannot trigger disconnection that day.
However, there are important caveats:
- Not all electricity providers are subject to these protections (some rural co-ops or unregulated providers may be excluded), so it’s essential to check whether the plan falls under PUCT regulation.
- The protections are tied to weather conditions and forecasts. If it’s not “extreme weather” per the rule’s definition (cold or a heat advisory), then standard disconnection rules apply.
Ultimately, prepaid electricity can be shut off under normal conditions — but during extreme cold or heat events recognized under PUCT’s “extreme weather emergency” rules, disconnection for nonpayment is prohibited.