About Direct Energy
Direct Energy is a retail energy provider with one of the largest customer bases in North America. Electricity plans and natural gas services are offered by Direct Energy in 14 U.S. states, the District of Columbia, and three provinces in Canada. The energy provider has its headquarters in Houston, placing it at the heart of the American energy market.
The SaveOnEnergy marketplace allows you to compare Direct Energy rates with other light companies. To get started, simply enter your ZIP code to explore energy rates near you.
Direct Energy plans
Direct Energy offers a variety of electricity plans to fit nearly any customer. You can choose from a range of different term lengths and special perks, such as free Amazon Prime or 100% renewable energy. Below, you’ll find basic information about some of Direct Energy’s most popular plans.
Before you select a plan, be sure to read the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) to help you determine the best option for you. The EFL is a standardized document from the energy provider with details such as the average price per kilowatt-hour (kWh), usage credits, and contract length.
Twelve Hour Power 12
Direct Energy’s most popular plan offers a 12-month fixed rate, one year of free Amazon Prime, and free electricity from 9 p.m. to 9 a.m. The Twelve Hour Power plan also includes electricity sourced from 20% renewable energy. You’ll pay a $150 early termination fee (ETF) if you cancel your contract early, unless you move to a new address within the service area.
Live Brighter Lite 24
The Live Brighter Lite 24 plan is a 24-month fixed-rate energy plan that offers 20% renewable energy. If you use more than 1,000 kWh of energy per month, Direct Energy won’t charge a usage fee. The ETF for this plan is $295 unless you move outside Direct Energy’s service area .
Live Brighter 12
The Live Brighter 12 plan is a 12-month fixed-rate energy plan that allows customers to lock in their energy rate for one year. Regardless of market fluctuations, your rate will stay the same for the length of the contract. The plan includes a $4.95 base charge and an ETF of $150.
Direct Energy reviews
| Overall SaveOnEnergy score | 3.7/5 |
|---|
| Customer service | 3/5 |
| Online accessibility | 5/5 |
| Plan options
| 3/5 |
SaveOnEnergy has 20 years of experience working with various top-tier providers in deregulated markets. Because there are dozens of providers, hundreds of plans, and constantly changing rates, our reviews are not based on first-hand experience. We encourage customers to do their own research, compare multiple plans, and consider their individual priorities when choosing which provider is the best fit for them.
(Ratings updated 12/19/2024)
Services offered by Direct Energy
Direct Energy for residential customers
Direct Energy offers a range of fixed-rate options for residential customers, with contracts ranging from 12 to 36 months. Fixed-rate plans are a great option for customers who value a straightforward contract with stable rates. You can also find variable-rate and prepaid options from Direct Energy.
SaveOnEnergy’s electricity experts are available to answer your questions regarding plans, providers, and rates. Call the number on your screen to learn about electricity rates and plans in your area.
Direct Energy for business customers
Direct Energy also offers flexible and affordable business energy plans. Each plan has an easy enrollment process, so small businesses can build the right plan for their needs. Visit our business energy page or call the number on your screen to learn more.
Green energy options with Direct Energy
Each energy plan in Texas includes a percentage of green energy from solar or wind sources. Direct Energy goes one step further by offering plans that include 100% green energy so customers looking to reduce their carbon footprint can do so easily.
Other Direct Energy initiatives
Direct Energy has other perks for its customers, including:
- Refer-a-Friend program: Direct Energy allows customers to get a $50 credit on their bill and give a $50 credit to their friend for each referral.
- Home protection plans: Direct Energy offers home protection plans for customers to protect their household appliances and HVAC systems. Plans cover plumbing repairs, heating and cooling maintenance, and appliance replacement.
- Free Amazon Prime: Several of Direct Energy’s fixed-rate plans include a unique offering: free Amazon Prime for the length of the contract.
Direct Energy service areas
Direct Energy is one of the leading electric providers in Texas and serves customers across much of the state. Below are some of the utility service areas and cities that Direct Energy serves:
- AEP Texas: Service area covers much of north-central and southern Texas, including Abilene, San Angelo, Corpus Christi, Laredo, and McAllen.
- CenterPoint Energy:Service area covers over millions of residents and businesses in the greater Houston area.
- Texas-New Mexico Power: This service area covers cities such as suburbs around Houston, Angleton, and outlying areas of the Dallas–Fort Worth metro.
- Oncor Electric Delivery: This service area spans northern and western Texas, including Dallas, Plano, and more.
SaveOnEnergy’s tips for easy electricity service setup
- Don’t forget to read your plan’s Electricity Facts Label before signing up. It contains important information, including:
- Price per kilowatt-hour based on usage
- The plan’s percentage of renewable energy
- Early termination fees
- Allow your provider to handle the setup. Once your order has been confirmed, your new supplier will set up service with your utility, or transmission and distribution service provider (TDSP) – but don’t worry, there shouldn’t be any interruption to your power during the switch.
- Understand your electricity bill. Your local TDSP will still deliver your electricity and maintain electric infrastructure including meters and power lines. Your utility fees can be found as TDU or TDSP charges on your monthly bill. They are independent of your supplier rate.
How to move or transfer service with Direct Energy
Direct Energy makes it easy to transfer your energy service if you move to a new home. The company requires at least three days’ notice for a service transfer, but it can complete same-day transfers for an additional fee. The company will handle all the logistics on its end. If you’re transferring to a new Direct Energy address or moving outside of Direct Energy’s service area, the company will waive the ETF to end your contract early.
Direct Energy electric rates in my area
Utility transmission rates vary across Texas because each utility can set its own transmission charges. This could mean that you pay a different rate from your friend in a neighboring town, even if you have the same electricity plan. That’s why it’s important to shop for electricity rates specific to your location.
The SaveOnEnergy marketplace offers the most accurate and up-to-date electric rates in your area. Enter your ZIP code to check energy rates and plans available near you.
Direct Energy rates in Houston
Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 3/21/2025, 3:07:14 PM CDT for ZIP Code 77002. 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 rates in Dallas
Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 3/21/2025, 3:07:14 PM 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 rates in Fort Worth
Please note: All rates above are accurate as of 3/21/2025, 3:07:14 PM CDT for ZIP Code 76137. Rates may have changed since this date/time. For the most up to date rates in your area, please enter your zip code above.
