AE Texas vs Direct Energy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
AE Texas offers 12 plans starting at 11.1c/kWh while Direct Energy has 43 plans from 14.4c/kWh across all 6 Texas TDU service areas. Here is how their rates, terms, renewable options, and fees compare.
Rate Curve Comparison
Lowest average rate across all usage levels (11.2c/kWh vs 14.0c/kWh). Consistent pricing regardless of how much electricity you use.
Shows the best available all-in rate from each provider at 500, 1,000, and 2,000 kWh usage levels. The best plan may differ at each tier.
Best Plan Per Term Length
| Term | AE Texas Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Direct Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Month | Smart Secure 9EFL | 11.1c | $20/mo remaining | Live Brighter Lite 12EFL | 14.4c | $150 flat | AE Texas |
| 24 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | Autopay Texas 24EFL | 15.3c | $295 flat | Direct Energy |
| 36 Month | Smart Secure 36EFL | 12.7c | $20/mo remaining | Autopay Texas 36EFL | 15.5c | $395 flat | AE Texas |
Plan Type Breakdown
AE Texas
Direct Energy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
AE Texas
Direct Energy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
AE Texas
Direct Energy
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: AE Texas
AE Texas has the lower advertised rate at 11.1c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 14.4c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: AE Texas
AE Texas has the better option for locking in a rate on a 36-month contract.
Need Flexibility?
Better fit: AE Texas
AE Texas uses a per-month cancellation structure, so your fee decreases over time - making it easier to switch later.
These rates are based on 1,000 kWh average usage. Your actual savings depend on YOUR usage pattern.
WattTrim analyzes your real Smart Meter data to find the plan that saves you the most - across all providers, not just these two.
Always Free
Trim My BillFrequently Asked Questions
Is AE Texas cheaper than Direct Energy?
Based on current plan data, AE Texas has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 11.1c/kWh compared to 14.4c/kWh from the other provider at 1,000 kWh of usage. Your actual cost depends on your usage pattern and the specific plan you choose.
Does AE Texas offer renewable energy plans compared to Direct Energy?
Neither AE Texas nor Direct Energy currently lists any 100% renewable plans in our tracked Texas service areas, though many standard plans include some percentage of renewable content.
What are the cancellation fees for AE Texas vs Direct Energy?
AE Texas charges $20/mo remaining on its tracked plans, while Direct Energy charges $150 - $395 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans. Always review the Electricity Facts Label (EFL) for the exact fee structure before enrolling.
Which provider has more plan options in Texas, AE Texas or Direct Energy?
Direct Energy currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 43 plans compared to 12.
Can I switch from AE Texas to Direct Energy?
Yes. Texas is a deregulated electricity market, so you can switch retail electric providers at any time. If you are still under contract with your current provider, check for an early termination fee before switching. New service with either provider typically starts within 1 to 5 business days of enrollment.