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Reliant Energy and Direct Energy are two well-known electricity providers in Texas. Based on the Choose Texas Power rating methodology, Reliant scores 4.3 out of 5, while Direct Energy’s overall score is slightly lower, at 4.2 out of 5. Keep reading to compare Direct Energy vs. Reliant Energy reviews.
Our reviews compare customer service, online accessibility, and plan variety. While Reliant scored higher for customer service, both earned a 5 out of 5 for online accessibility and 3 out of 5 for plan options.
Review category |
Direct Energy |
Reliant Energy |
|---|---|---|
| Customer service | 4.6/5 | 4.9/5 |
| Online accessibility | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Plan variety | 3/5 | 3/5 |
| Overall score | 4.2/5 | 4.3/5 |
The following sections break down each category.
When you have trouble with your energy bill or questions about your power, strong customer service can make the process easier. We evaluate customer service based on:
Reliant scored higher overall for customer service, with a 4.9 out of 5 rating, while Direct Energy scored a 4.6 out of 5. The biggest factor affecting Direct Energy ratings was the lack of a satisfaction guarantee or the option to change your plan after enrollment. However, Reliant Energy has a 90-day satisfaction guarantee, which means you can switch to another Reliant plan without paying a fee if you’re not satisfied with your choice within 90 days of enrollment.
A simple online platform makes it easier to manage your account, track usage, and pay your bill. We score this category based on whether the provider has online bill pay, usage tracking, and mobile app access. Reliant Energy and Direct Energy scored a 5 out of 5 for online accessibility. Both providers offer:
The biggest difference is that Reliant offers additional advanced features for some customers. Its app includes high-usage alerts, prepaid balance reloads, EV charging scheduling, solar panel production tracking, and a home energy efficiency score. These tools may be beneficial if you have a prepaid plan, EV, or solar buyback plan.
When reviewing plan options, we consider contract lengths, renewable plan availability, service areas, and plan type variety. Overall, Direct Energy and Reliant Energy do not offer the best plan selections. In our review of plan options, both providers scored a 3 out of 5.
On our marketplace, these two providers offer:
Electricity prices in Texas vary by location and plan type. The best way to compare Reliant vs. Direct Energy plans is to enter your ZIP code on this page and filter the results to display options from both providers. At the time of writing, Reliant Energy has the cheaper electricity rate in Texas for both 12- and 24-month plans.
Knowing your usage can help determine the best plan for you. For example, Reliant Energy’s Conservation Plan 24 offers a discounted energy charge for usage below 1,000 kWh. If you use less than 1,000 on average, you may save money with this plan instead of the lowest rate plan. The following table compares the average monthly bill estimate for 1,000 kWh usage and lists additional plan details for each provider. Monthly bill estimates are subject to change based on fluctuations in market rates.
Plan |
Contract length |
Monthly bill estimate* |
Additional details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Reliant Energy Power Savings 12 | 12 months | $119 | Receive a $75 bill credit each month usage is at least 1,000 kWh. |
| Direct Energy Live Brighter Lite 12 | 12 months | $149 | Waived usage charge for usage below 1,000 kWh. |
| Reliant Energy Power Savings 24 | 24 months | $119 | Receive a $75 bill credit each month usage is at least 1,000 kWh. |
| Direct Energy Live Brighter Lite 24 | 24 months | $149 | Waived usage charge for usage below 1,000 kWh. |
*Based on 77494 ZIP code at the time of writing.
Choose Texas Power makes it easy to compare Texas energy providers and sign up for a plan in one place. Use the following steps to narrow your options and find the best energy plan for your needs.
The best energy company for you depends on your priorities, as well as what’s available in your area. Here’s a quick comparison of Reliant and Direct Energy:
Reliant Energy |
Direct Energy |
|
|---|---|---|
| Pros | Higher overall rating, strong customer service, lower rates, helpful online tools | 100% renewable plans, strong online tools |
| Cons | Less renewable plan options | Lower customer service score, no satisfaction guarantee, higher rates |
| Best for | Customer service and lower rates | More plan options and 100% renewable energy plans |
Enter your ZIP code on this page to explore plans from Texas energy providers serving your area. If you’re searching for a no-deposit plan, lower rates, or longer contract lengths, consider comparing other companies like TXU Energy.
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