Direct Energy vs Frontier Utilities: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Direct Energy offers 46 plans starting at 13.3c/kWh while Frontier Utilities has 58 plans from 7.0c/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 (8.8c/kWh vs 13.0c/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 | Direct Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Frontier Utilities Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | Frontier Power Saver 3EFL | 9.6c | $150 flat | Frontier Utilities |
| 12 Month | Autopay Texas 12EFL | 13.3c | $150 flat | Frontier Saver Plus 12EFL | 7.0c | $150 flat | Frontier Utilities |
| 24 Month | Autopay Texas 24EFL | 13.6c | $295 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Direct Energy |
| 36 Month | Autopay Texas 36EFL | 14.1c | $395 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Direct Energy |
Plan Type Breakdown
Direct Energy
Frontier Utilities
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Direct Energy
Frontier Utilities
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Direct Energy
Frontier Utilities
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Frontier Utilities
Frontier Utilities has the lower advertised rate at 7.0c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 13.3c/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.
Need Flexibility?
Better fit: Frontier Utilities
Frontier Utilities 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 Direct Energy cheaper than Frontier Utilities?
Based on current plan data, Frontier Utilities has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 7.0c/kWh compared to 13.3c/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 Direct Energy offer renewable energy plans compared to Frontier Utilities?
Neither Direct Energy nor Frontier Utilities 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 Direct Energy vs Frontier Utilities?
Direct Energy charges $150 - $395 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans, while Frontier Utilities charges $150 - $150 (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, Direct Energy or Frontier Utilities?
Frontier Utilities currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 58 plans compared to 46.
Can I switch from Direct Energy to Frontier Utilities?
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.