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With over 20 years in the energy industry, Direct Energy is one of the largest retail electricity providers (REPs) in North America and a well-known supplier in Texas. At Choose Texas Power, we review deregulated energy providers based on three categories: customer service, online accessibility, and plan options. The following table displays Direct Energy’s ratings.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Customer service | 3.0 |
| Online accessibility | 5.0 |
| Plan options | 3 |
| Overall score | 3.7 |
Based on our provider rating methodology, Direct Energy scored 3.5 out of 5. While the company scored 5.0 on online accessibility, the customer service and plan options categories lowered its overall score. The following explains each category of our review methodology.
Customer service is important with every purchase, but especially when shopping for an energy company in Texas. If you have an issue with your bill or questions about your plan, having dedicated support ready to help you improves your experience. When reviewing Direct Energy’s customer service, we considered the Power to Choose complaint score, if active, Google reviews, satisfaction guarantee, service options, and years in business.
For customer service, Direct Energy scored a 3 out of 5. The two factors impacting the score include the satisfaction guarantee and service options. Direct Energy does not have a satisfaction guarantee, so if you are unhappy with your service and want to switch or cancel, you will be charged an early termination fee (ETF). With Direct Energy, you do not have the option to change your plan after enrollment.
An easy-to-use online platform streamlines your customer experience by having everything you need in one place. Direct Energy scored highest in this section, with a 5 out of 5. Direct Energy’s user-friendly online interface includes convenient features such as online bill pay, real-time usage alerts, and transparent pricing information. These tools empower customers to manage their energy usage effectively and make informed decisions about their plans.
Energy deregulation in Texas gives customers the power to select an energy plan and provider based on their usage and preferences. Over time, your usage habits may change as your lifestyle changes — a provider with multiple plan options can offer long-term flexibility. We rated Direct Energy a 3 out of 5 for plan options, due to various contract lengths and some plans exceeding the state’s renewable energy requirements.
For plan options, we review contract length, renewable plans, serviceability, variable-rate plans, and low-credit options. Direct Energy offers two plan lengths, including 12 and 24 months. While there is more than one option for each contract term, customers may want more or less commitment, such as a 6-month or 36-month plan. Direct Energy offers a 100% green energy plan, including Amazon Prime membership benefits. Direct Energy doesn’t offer variable-rate, no deposit, or prepaid energy plan options, which brought down its overall score.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| 100% renewable plan option | Limited to 12 or 24-month plan lengths |
| User-friendly online tools | No satisfaction guarantee |
| Serves all utilities in Texas | Service quality varies by customer |
Whether Direct Energy is the provider for you depends on your needs and preferences. Consider factors such as the range of plans, pricing structure, customer service reputation, and any additional benefits. If you want a 100% renewable plan, there is one option from Direct Energy. If you want different options, you may consider an alternative, like Gexa Energy. If your preference is the highest quality customer service, consider TXU Energy, which scored a 4.9 out of 5 for customer service in our TXU review. Comparing energy companies, plans, and rates can help you determine what is right for you.
Signing up or switching energy plans is simple with Choose Texas Power. Use the following steps.
Direct Energy rates vary based on location and plan type. Compare rates for your home by entering your ZIP code. If you want to secure the lowest rates, consider other providers such as Discount Power or Frontier Utilities.
Yes, Direct Energy is a good provider in Texas. Direct Energy is a reputable provider in Texas, earning a 3.7 rating from Choose Texas Power. Whether Direct Energy is right for you depends on your plan and rate preferences.
Enter your ZIP code on the Choose Texas Power marketplace to compare available plans in your area. When you find an energy plan and rate that suits you, sign up online or call our team for assistance.
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