Find affordable plans from Direct Energy on the Choose Energy marketplace.
At Choose Energy, our reporters seek out information that puts you in control of your energy. Our partners do not direct our editorial content, though we may reference their products in our posts. Read about how we make money to learn more.
Direct Energy is a Houston-based energy provider that offers electricity plans in deregulated areas throughout North America. There are Direct Energy plans in 14 states and Washington, D.C., in addition to three Canadian provinces. Direct Energy offers a range of fixed- and variable-rate plans with unique plan perks and features.
Enter your ZIP code to start comparing Direct Energy rates in your area.
| Plan Name | Plan Length | Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Direct Energy - Live Brighter Lite 24 | 24 months | $0.155 / kWh |
| Direct Energy - Live Brighter 1K+ 24 | 24 months | $0.168 / kWh |
| Direct Energy - Live Brighter® (Amazon Prime) On Us 24 | 24 months | $0.184 / kWh |
| Direct Energy - Live Brighter 12 | 12 months | $0.204 / kWh |
| Direct Energy - Twelve Hour Power 12 | 12 months | $0.206 / kWh |
Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 4/24/2024, 7:15:41 AM CDT for ZIP Code 75001. Rates may have changed since this date/time. For the most up to date rates in your area, please enter your zip code above.
Direct Energy is part of NRG Energy Inc., and its North American headquarters are located in Houston. As one of North America’s largest retail and business energy providers, Direct Energy aims to offer reliable and affordable energy services and provide resources to help its customers save on energy costs.
Direct Energy offerings include:
Choose Energy only works with trusted energy providers. When selecting our featured partners, we hold electric companies to high standards for service reliability, rates, customer service, and plan variety. Direct Energy is consistently one of the top providers in Texas and many other states, so we’re proud to feature the company on our marketplace.
Direct Energy offers various fixed-rate and variable-rate plans. Here’s an overview of how these Direct Energy electricity rates work:
To learn more about the types of Direct Energy electricity rates available in your area, enter your ZIP code.
Many electricity companies, including Direct Energy, require a deposit before you can begin service. Although the company occasionally grants exceptions, you’ll typically have to put down a deposit if your credit score isn’t high enough. Customers who may qualify for deposit exemptions must be:
You may also be eligible for no-deposit energy plans from Direct Energy and other providers. If you want to avoid a credit check and deposit, you can find prepaid plans on the Choose Energy marketplace by entering your ZIP code and filtering by plan type.
Texas is a leader in renewable energy in the U.S., ranking first for wind power generation and second for solar energy production. As a result, every Texas energy plan contains some percentage of renewable content, which you can find by checking your plan’s Electricity Facts Label (EFL). Direct Energy even offers several plans that use 100% green energy for residential and business customers.
If you are moving to a new address, you can easily switch to a Direct Energy plan or transfer your Direct Energy service to your new location. Reach out to Direct Energy, and the company will handle the transfer. If you are moving outside the service area, you can switch to a different provider without paying an ETF.
Direct Energy does not offer a plan specifically for renters. However, you can match your energy plan to your lease thanks to the different contract lengths offered by Direct Energy. If you have a month-to-month lease, you may want to choose a variable-rate plan to keep your options more flexible and avoid an ETF. For rental agreements that last a year or longer, consider a fixed rate that aligns with your contract.
Direct Energy charges an ETF for its fixed-rate plans if you decide to cancel your service before the end of your contract. These cancellation fees can vary between plans and typically range from $150 to $295, so be sure to check your EFL to know your fee before you cancel. ETFs don’t apply if you’re moving to a new address.
Direct Energy also offers electricity plans for small and large businesses, and provides services to 78% of the Fortune 100 companies. The Choose Energy marketplace can help you explore commercial Direct Energy rates in Texas and other locations and find a plan tailored to your business. If you’re a business owner in a deregulated area, visit our business electricity page to learn more and build your custom commercial energy plan.
Direct Energy provides various resources to help you lower your electric bill. The company also offers monthly pricing on home protection plans to help shield you from major repair bills. These home protection plans include repair and maintenance options for a variety of home systems and appliances.
Direct Energy also donates to and provides employee volunteering opportunities at organizations that seek to benefit children’s hospitals. The company raises funds for programs such as the Neighbor-to-Neighbor Bill Assistance Program to focus on local community support.
Direct Energy has a variety of plans available to fit the needs of most residents and businesses. These include fixed-rate and variable-rate plans with different term lengths. Enter your ZIP code on this page to find the plan that’s right for you.
This simple 12-month, fixed-rate plan is a great option if you want a short contract with a Direct Energy rate that decreases as you use more energy. You’ll pay an ETF of $150 if you cancel this plan before your contract ends.
If you regularly use more than 1,000 kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity per month and want to secure a lower long-term rate, the Live Brighter 1K+ 24 plan offers great value. As with Direct Energy’s other 24-month plans, your rate will stay the same for two years, and you’ll pay an ETF of $295 if you cancel early.
On the other end of the spectrum, the Live Brighter Lite plans are built for customers who use less than 1,000 kWh per month. If your usage exceeds that level, you’ll pay a $9.95 per month fee. This plan secures your rate for 24 months and includes an ETF of $295.
If you tend to use more energy at night, you may be able to save big with the Twelve Hour Power 12 plan. You’ll pay higher rates during the day but get free Direct Energy power from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. every day, and your rates will be fixed for 12 months. If you cancel your plan early, you’ll pay an ETF of $150.
Direct Energy provides electricity service in many states, including Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Texas, and Washington D.C. Here are some of Direct Energy’s service areas in Texas:
As with other energy companies, Direct Energy rates can change based on where you live. This price disparity is mainly due to different utility transmission charges. To ensure you get accurate rate information, search for electricity companies near you and ensure you find local Direct Energy electricity rates when you shop for your next plan.
Choose Energy assigns unbiased reviews and scores to top electricity providers in Texas. We break down our scoring model into the following three categories: customer service, business history, and online accessibility.
| Overall Score | 4.2/5 |
| Customer Service | 5/5 |
| Online Accessibility | 5/5 |
| Business History | 2.5/5 |
Direct Energy has an overall score of 4.2 out of 5. To learn more about electric provider reviews, browse our full list here.
Finding cheap electricity plans is simple with the Choose Energy marketplace. Enter your ZIP code to find an electricity company near you, compare plans, and shop cheap electricity rates.
Review your plan’s EFL. This resource will help ensure you know the details of your plan, such as ETFs, rate per kWh, and your plan’s percentage of green energy.
Make the transition. After you’ve finished signing up, your provider will take it from there. They will work with your utility company to set up or transfer your services, and you should not experience any service interruptions.
Take note of any fees. When you review your electricity bills, you’ll notice charges from Direct Energy (the electric company) and your local utility, which plays an important role in delivering your electricity. Remember to contact your utility company if you experience any power outages.
In a deregulated energy market, shopping for electricity can feel overwhelming. But, with the free Choose Energy marketplace, you can shop and compare your available energy options in one place.
Enter your ZIP code to explore a list of current Direct Energy electric rates and plans offered near you. You can filter for specific brands, contract lengths, rate types, and more. Once you have found the right energy option for your home, you can sign up through Choose Energy — all in a matter of minutes.
If you’re struggling with your energy costs, there are several ways to lower your electricity bill. Strategies range from reducing your energy usage to switching to energy-efficient appliances. You can also reduce your energy bill by switching to a more affordable energy plan. Learn more in our guide to lowering your electricity bill.
What services does Direct Energy offer?
As a Direct Energy customer, you can choose from a range of fixed-rate and variable-rate electricity plans for your home or business. Additional services offered by the company include free usage periods, green energy plans, and a complimentary subscription to Amazon Prime.
Will Direct Energy require a deposit?
In general, you will have to pay a deposit, like with most energy providers. However, Direct Energy does offer some deposit exemptions to those with good credit or other extenuating circumstances.
Will Direct Energy charge me a cancellation fee?
If you cancel a fixed-term plan with Direct Energy before it expires, you’ll have to pay an ETF. However, this won’t apply if you move outside Direct Energy’s service area or have a variable-rate plan.
What is the best Direct Energy electricity plan?
The best Direct Energy plan for you will depend on various factors, including your energy usage habits, your budget, and personal preferences. The Choose Energy marketplace allows you to easily compare Direct Energy plans so you can decide on the best option for you. You can browse electricity rates and plan features to help you decide. Enter your ZIP code to find the plans available in your area.
