Constellation vs Direct Energy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Constellation offers 25 plans starting at 10.2c/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 (10.3c/kWh vs 13.7c/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 | Constellation Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Direct Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | Simple Switch 4View PlanEFL | 10.2c | $50 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Constellation |
| 12 Month | Simple Switch 11View PlanEFL | 11.3c | $50 flat | Autopay Texas 12View PlanEFL | 14.4c | $150 flat | Constellation |
| 24 Month | 14 Month Usage Bill CreditView PlanEFL | 10.9c | $150 flat | Autopay Texas 24View PlanEFL | 14.6c | $295 flat | Constellation |
| 36 Month | 36 Month Usage Bill CreditView PlanEFL | 11.9c | $150 flat | Autopay Texas 36View PlanEFL | 14.9c | $395 flat | Constellation |
Plan Type Breakdown
Constellation
Direct Energy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Constellation
Direct Energy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Constellation
Direct Energy
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Constellation
Constellation has the lower advertised rate at 10.2c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 14.4c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: Constellation
Constellation has the better option for locking in a rate on a 24-month or longer contract.
Need Flexibility?
Better fit: Constellation
Constellation has more flexible cancellation terms, including short-term or lower-commitment plans.
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 Constellation cheaper than Direct Energy?
Based on current plan data, Constellation has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 10.2c/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 Constellation offer renewable energy plans compared to Direct Energy?
Neither Constellation 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 Constellation vs Direct Energy?
Constellation charges $50 - $150 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, Constellation or Direct Energy?
Direct Energy currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 37 plans compared to 25.
Can I switch from Constellation 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.