Budget Power vs Direct Energy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Budget Power offers 25 plans starting at 11.0c/kWh while Direct Energy has 33 plans from 14.8c/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 (11.0c/kWh vs 14.1c/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 | Budget Power Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Direct Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Month | No Gimmicks 10EFL | 11.0c | $100 flat | Autopay Texas 12EFL | 14.8c | $150 flat | Budget Power |
| 24 Month | No Gimmicks 18EFL | 11.6c | $125 flat | Autopay Texas 24EFL | 15.3c | $295 flat | Budget Power |
| 36 Month | No Gimmicks 36EFL | 12.0c | $250 flat | Autopay Texas 36EFL | 15.5c | $395 flat | Budget Power |
Plan Type Breakdown
Budget Power
Direct Energy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Budget Power
Direct Energy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Budget Power
Direct Energy
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Budget Power
Budget Power has the lower advertised rate at 11.0c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 14.8c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: Budget Power
Budget Power has the better option for locking in a rate on a 24-month or longer contract.
Going Green?
Better fit: Budget Power
Budget Power offers more 100% renewable plans (3 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 Budget Power cheaper than Direct Energy?
Based on current plan data, Budget Power has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 11.0c/kWh compared to 14.8c/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 Budget Power offer renewable energy plans compared to Direct Energy?
Budget Power offers 3 plans (12% of its lineup) at 100% renewable energy, while Direct Energy offers 0 plans (0% of its lineup).
What are the cancellation fees for Budget Power vs Direct Energy?
Budget Power charges $100 - $250 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, Budget Power or Direct Energy?
Direct Energy currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 33 plans compared to 25.
Can I switch from Budget Power 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.