Branch Energy vs Direct Energy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Branch Energy offers 2 plans starting at 13.2c/kWh while Direct Energy has 37 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 (13.3c/kWh vs 13.7c/kWh). Consistent pricing regardless of how much electricity you use.
Below 1,000 kWh, Direct Energy tends to be cheaper. Above that, Branch Energy has the edge.
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 | Branch Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Direct Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Month | Branch Fixed 12View PlanEFL | 13.2c | $120 flat | Autopay Texas 12View PlanEFL | 14.4c | $150 flat | Branch Energy |
| 24 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | Autopay Texas 24View PlanEFL | 14.6c | $295 flat | Direct Energy |
| 36 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | Autopay Texas 36View PlanEFL | 14.9c | $395 flat | Direct Energy |
Plan Type Breakdown
Branch Energy
Direct Energy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Branch Energy
Direct Energy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Branch Energy
Direct Energy
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Branch Energy
Branch Energy has the lower advertised rate at 13.2c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 14.4c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: Direct Energy
Direct Energy has the better option for locking in a rate on a 24-month or longer contract.
Going Green?
Better fit: Branch Energy
Branch Energy offers more 100% renewable plans (2 vs 0).
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 Branch Energy cheaper than Direct Energy?
Based on current plan data, Branch Energy has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 13.2c/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 Branch Energy offer renewable energy plans compared to Direct Energy?
Branch Energy offers 2 plans (100% of its lineup) at 100% renewable energy, while Direct Energy offers 0 plans (0% of its lineup).
What are the cancellation fees for Branch Energy vs Direct Energy?
Branch Energy charges $120 flat on its tracked plans, while Direct Energy charges $150 - $395 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, Branch Energy or Direct Energy?
Direct Energy currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 37 plans compared to 2.
Can I switch from Branch Energy 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.