Direct Energy

Direct Energy is one of the oldest and largest retail energy suppliers, founded in 1985 (41 years in business). NRG Energy acquired them in 2012, making them part of one of the biggest integrated power companies in the US. They serve millions of customers across 9+ states. Here's what their BBB profile reveals: D- rating, NOT accredited, with 136 complaints in the past 3 years and 1.02 out of 5 stars from 84 customer reviews. That's one of the lowest customer satisfaction scores we've seen. The complaint pattern is concerning: door-to-door sales representatives signing customers up without their knowledge, accounts being changed without proper authorization, and cancellation fees up to $295 making it expensive to leave. Multiple complaints describe being switched to Direct Energy without consent and then facing obstacles to return to their original provider. You can't sign up through our platform. If you're considering Direct Energy, proceed with extreme caution—especially with any door-to-door representative.

Rates typically run 10.5¢ to 12.5¢ per kWh in Ohio—on the higher end compared to other suppliers. They offer variety: fixed rates, variable rates, green energy plans, rewards programs, and their "Free Nights & Weekends" plans in some markets. The options are genuinely extensive. The catch is the cancellation fee structure. Some plans have no ETF, but others charge up to $295. That's among the highest in the industry. Combined with their D- BBB rating and complaint pattern, you need to be very careful about what you're signing up for.

Call them at 1-888-305-3828. Since we can't enroll you, that's your only option. Their BBB response history shows they do respond to complaints, but the volume of complaints (136 in 3 years) suggests systemic issues rather than isolated incidents. Common themes include difficulty reaching supervisors, long hold times, and getting bounced between departments. The door-to-door sales channel is particularly problematic. If anyone comes to your door claiming to represent Direct Energy (or any supplier), never sign anything on the spot. Legitimate suppliers won't pressure you into immediate decisions. Take their information and verify independently.