Direct Energy

Major National Provider 100% Green

Established national provider now part of the NRG Energy family

3.5/5 (890 reviews)
Founded 1986
12.0¢
NRG Energy
PUCT #10033
40+ Years
Houston, TX
Updated 2025-12-29

Available Plans

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Overview

12.0¢
Avg Rate
3.5/5
Rating
0-12 mo.
Terms
100%
Green
Plan Types: Fixed Variable Free Nights Prepaid 100% Green

Pros & Cons

Strengths

4
  • Established national brand with NRG backing
  • Multiple plan options including prepaid
  • Good customer support scores
  • Available in many states

Watch Out For

4
  • BBB rating is F (not accredited)
  • Some reports of unexpected rate increases
  • Billing transparency could be better
  • Higher than average rates

About Direct Energy

Direct Energy is a national electricity provider founded in Toronto in 1986 and acquired by NRG Energy for $3.6 billion in January 2021. The company was previously the third-largest seller of electricity in Texas.

Plans & Pricing

Direct Energy offers fixed-rate, variable, prepaid, and free nights/weekends plans. They also operate as CPL Retail Energy in South Texas and First Choice Power.

Rate Analysis

Direct Energy rates typically range from 11¢ to 15¢ per kWh. Their prepaid Power-To-Go plans have higher rates but no deposit or credit check.

Customer Feedback

What Customers Like

"Reliable service and good customer support."

Home Energy Club

Common Concerns

"My rate increased significantly after the first year."

Consumer Affairs

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Direct Energy a good company?

Direct Energy is an established provider now owned by NRG Energy. They have good customer support but mixed reviews on billing transparency. Their BBB rating is F.

Source: BBB

Who owns Direct Energy?

Direct Energy was acquired by NRG Energy for $3.6 billion in January 2021. NRG also owns Reliant, Green Mountain Energy, and Cirro Energy.

Source: Wikipedia

Similar Providers

Sources

Verified

Last updated 2025-12-29. Written by ElectricRates.org Editorial Team.