Compare Direct Energy Rates and Plans

cheapest Direct Energy Electricity rates and plans in Texas
12 Month Fixed Rate
15.9 ¢ effective rate per kWh

Live Brighter Lite 12

  • 12
  • monthsmo.
  • Avg. BillAvg.
  • $159
Plan Details
  • Early Termination Fee: $150
  • Monthly Recurring Charge: $9.95
  • fixed-rate
  • 12 Months
(Note: The Early Termination Fee will not be charged if you end your contract early because you are moving out.)
Pricing Details
Monthly Usage 500 kWh 1000 kWh 2000 kWh
Estimated Bill $82 $159 $322
Average Price Per kWh 16.300¢ 15.900¢ 16.100¢
Rates as of Feb 19, 2025 at 08:30 AM

Our Take on Direct Energy

Our Rating:
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How We Rate

We aggregate data from multiple sources, including our customer reviews, rates, Public Utility Commission statistics, JD Power ratings, Better Business Bureau, and surveys.

Direct Energy was another of the original competitive retail energy providers. NRG purchased Direct Energy in 2021. Our view is that Direct Energy serves as a flank brand with great brand equity, an established customer base of over half a million Texas customers and competitive rates. If it aint broke. . .

Direct Energy offers competitive rates, and some cool incentives, including Amazon Prime and Green energy options. Rates are good - not great.

Direct Energy has never made it to our Best in Texas list. They tick most of the boxes - except we've never seen their prices come down to where they are competitive.

Based on customer reviews from 2009-2024, Direct Energy has a mixed reputation. Common complaints include unexpected rate increases, billing errors, poor customer service with long hold times and unhelpful representatives, difficulty canceling service, and aggressive collection practices including fees for late payments. While some customers praise competitive initial rates and reliable service, many report feeling misled by promotional offers and experiencing frustration with the company's billing practices and customer support.
Pros
  • thumb_upLarge Stable Provider
  • thumb_upCompetitive Rates
  • thumb_upModern Account Management tools
Cons
  • thumb_downAmazon Plan - Not worth it
  • thumb_down"Free" Nights/Weekend Plans are not "Free"
  • thumb_downHit or Miss Customer Support

Direct Energy Customer Reviews

Direct Energy Ratings
Overall Rating
Average Rating
2.9/5 of 401 Reviews
Plans & Pricing
Order Experience
Customer Service
Account Management
Likely to Recommend

Direct Energy Electricity Plans

Houston - Centerpoint Service Area Plans

Plan Term Rate
Live Brighter Lite 12 12/months 15.9¢/kWh
Live Brighter Lite 24 24/months 15.9¢/kWh
Live Brighter 1K+ 24 24/months 17.2¢/kWh
Live Brighter 12 12/months 22.0¢/kWh
Twelve Hour Power 12 12/months 22.2¢/kWh
Rates as of Feb 19, 2025 at 08:30 AM

Dallas - Oncor Service Area Plans

Plan Term Rate
Live Brighter Lite 12 12/months 15.9¢/kWh
Live Brighter Lite 24 24/months 15.9¢/kWh
Live Brighter 1K+ 24 24/months 17.2¢/kWh
Twelve Hour Power 12 12/months 21.6¢/kWh
Live Brighter 12 12/months 22.0¢/kWh
Rates as of Feb 19, 2025 at 08:30 AM

Lubbock - LPL Service Area Plans