Meta Pixel

Direct Energy: Current Rates and Overview

Are you moving to this address?

Secure. Free. Easy-to-use.

  1. Home
  2. /Electricity Providers
  3. /Direct Energy
Direct Energy Logo

Overview

Direct Energy is one of North America's largest retail providers of electricity, natural gas and home and business energy-related services with a history of impressive growth. Direct Energy gives customers choice, simplicity, and innovation where energy, data, and technology meet. We empower our customers with simple solutions to track, understand, and control the electricity and natural gas they use. The North American headquarters are located in Houston, Texas, with regional offices across the U.S. and Canada. Direct Energy is proud to serve customers in Texas, select states in the Northeast, the District of Columbia and the Canadian province of Alberta.

  • Founded in 1986
  • One of the US largest retail electricity providers serving over 4 million customers.
  • Offer energy-efficient products to help customers reduce consumption.
  • 24/7 customer support.
  • NRG Brand

ON THIS PAGE

Cate Burrow

Written by:

Cate Burrow

Maryellen Maddox

Reviewed by:

Maryellen Maddox

Ashley Waltmon

Edited by:

Ashley Waltmon

Updated September 5, 2025

How Does Direct Energy Compare?

If you’re not sure about Direct Energy, make sure to check out their leading competitors to confirm that Direct Energy is the right choice for you. These featured providers offer competitive energy rates which might fit your lifestyle and budget better.

Currently, the average rate for the plans from all other providers is 17.50¢ per kWh.

ProviderPlan NameRateTerm Length
APG&E EnergySimpleSaver 12 11.1 ¢
1000 kWh		12 months
Sign up
Atlantex PowerLuminous11.3 ¢
1000 kWh		36 months
Sign up
AbundanceStraight Forward 2415.2 ¢
1000 kWh		24 months
Sign up

Please note: All rates above are accurate as of September 5, 2025 at 10:30 PM UTC. Rates may have changed since this date/time. For the most up to date rates in your area, please enter your address above.

Areas that Direct Energy Serves

Below are some of the utility service areas and cities that Direct Energy serves:

AEP Texas : AEP Texas Central operates mainly in the southern part of Texas, while AEP North serves parts of western and central Texas. Cities supported include Abilene, Corpus Christi, Laredo, McAllen, San Angelo, and San Benito.

Oncor Electricity Delivery : Oncor Electricity Delivery covers west and north texas with cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, Irving, Plano, Arlington, Beeville, Midland, Odessa, Killeen and serves more than 13M Texans.

CenterPoint Energy : CenterPoint Energy primarily services the Houston area and surrounding areas.

Texas-New Mexico Power : Texas-New Mexico Power covers North Central Texas, Gulf Coast and West Texas including cities like Alvin, Clifton, Lewisville, Pecos, Fort Stockton, and League City.

How to sign up for service with Direct Energy

You can sign up for any Direct Energy plan through Gatby in less than five minutes. Once you have picked the plan that makes the most sense for your house, Gatby will submit the order through our integration to Direct Energy. While they would prefer a three day notice, Direct Energy can do same-day service start dates. Direct Energy and the local utility (TDSP) will coordinate to make sure service is started when you need it!

Direct Energy | FAQs

Signing Up for Electricity Service With Direct Energy.
How do I switch to a Direct Energy plan?
Switching to a Direct Energy plan is simple with Gatby. Just enter your address on the Gatby marketplace, find Direct Energy in the list of available providers, and select the plan that best fits your needs. After completing enrollment, [object Object] will handle the switch, and service will begin shortly after.
expand icon
Do I have to pay a fee if I switch to a Direct Energy plan?
In most cases, there are no fees for switching to a Direct Energy Energy plan, especially if your current contract has ended. However, if you’re switching before your existing contract is up, your current provider may charge an early termination fee. Check the terms of your existing plan on Gatby before making the switch. If you are moving, it’s important to note that you will not be required to pay an early termination fee whether your contract is up or not. Read more about this here.
expand icon
Is Direct Energy a reliable electricity provider?
Direct Energy is a reliable electricity provider with a strong reputation for competitive rates and solid customer service. With years of experience in the industry, Direct Energy offers dependable service across deregulated areas of Texas. Gatby has vetted all providers to align with our mission of making your electricity shopping experience hassle-free while saving you time and money.
expand icon
Does Direct Energy run your credit?
Yes, Direct Energy may run a credit check as part of the enrollment process. Depending on your credit score, they may require a deposit, but options are available for those looking for deposit-free plans. You can check Gatby for more information on this.
expand icon
How long does it take to connect Direct Energy in Texas?
The connection with Direct Energy begins on the service start date you choose during enrollment. If you have a smart meter, the activation is often very fast and could be completed within hours of your requested start date. Without a smart meter, it may take 1-3 business days.
expand icon
Is Direct Energy a trustworthy provider?
Yes, Direct Energy is a trustworthy provider with a reputation for transparency, competitive pricing, and reliable service. Gatby features Direct Energy as a dependable choice for electricity in Texas.
expand icon