Direct Energy vs Payless Power: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Direct Energy offers 43 plans starting at 14.4c/kWh while Payless Power has 32 plans from 10.0c/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 (10.0c/kWh vs 13.4c/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 | Payless Power Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 Month | N/A | N/A | N/A | PTC 3 Month - PostpaidEFL | 10.0c | $99 flat | Payless Power |
| 12 Month | Live Brighter Lite 12EFL | 14.4c | $150 flat | PTC 12 Month - PostpaidEFL | 13.7c | $199 flat | Payless Power |
| 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
Payless Power
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Direct Energy
Payless Power
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Direct Energy
Payless Power
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Payless Power
Payless Power has the lower advertised rate at 10.0c/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.
Need Flexibility?
Better fit: Payless Power
Payless Power 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 Payless Power?
Based on current plan data, Payless Power has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 10.0c/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 Direct Energy offer renewable energy plans compared to Payless Power?
Neither Direct Energy nor Payless Power 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 Payless Power?
Direct Energy charges $150 - $395 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans, while Payless Power charges $49 - $199 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 Payless Power?
Direct Energy currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 43 plans compared to 32.
Can I switch from Direct Energy to Payless Power?
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.