Direct Energy vs NEC Co-op Energy: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Direct Energy offers 43 plans starting at 14.4c/kWh while NEC Co-op Energy has 7 plans from 15.6c/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 (13.4c/kWh vs 15.8c/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 | NEC Co-op Energy Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | Residential Variable | 15.6c | None | NEC Co-op Energy |
| 12 Month | Live Brighter Lite 12EFL | 14.4c | $150 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Direct Energy |
| 24 Month | Live Brighter Lite 24EFL | 14.4c | $295 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Direct Energy |
| 36 Month | Autopay Texas 36EFL | 15.5c | $395 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Direct Energy |
Plan Type Breakdown
Direct Energy
NEC Co-op Energy
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Direct Energy
NEC Co-op Energy
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Direct Energy
NEC Co-op Energy
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Direct Energy
Direct Energy has the lower advertised rate at 14.4c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 15.6c/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: NEC Co-op Energy
NEC Co-op Energy 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 NEC Co-op Energy?
Based on current plan data, Direct Energy has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 14.4c/kWh compared to 15.6c/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 NEC Co-op Energy?
Neither Direct Energy nor NEC Co-op 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 Direct Energy vs NEC Co-op Energy?
Direct Energy charges $150 - $395 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans, while NEC Co-op Energy has no cancellation fee 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 NEC Co-op Energy?
Direct Energy currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 43 plans compared to 7.
Can I switch from Direct Energy to NEC Co-op 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.