Direct Energy vs Reliant: Texas Electricity Head-to-Head
Direct Energy offers 46 plans starting at 13.3c/kWh while Reliant has 79 plans from 11.9c/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 (12.3c/kWh vs 13.0c/kWh). Consistent pricing regardless of how much electricity you use.
Below 1,000 kWh, Direct Energy tends to be cheaper. Above that, Reliant has the edge.
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 | Reliant Best Plan | Rate | Fee | Winner |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12 Month | Autopay Texas 12EFL | 13.3c | $150 flat | Reliant Power Savings 12 planEFL | 11.9c | $150 flat | Reliant |
| 24 Month | Autopay Texas 24EFL | 13.6c | $295 flat | Reliant Power Savings 24 planEFL | 11.9c | $295 flat | Reliant |
| 36 Month | Autopay Texas 36EFL | 14.1c | $395 flat | N/A | N/A | N/A | Direct Energy |
Plan Type Breakdown
Direct Energy
Reliant
Cancellation Fee Comparison
Direct Energy
Reliant
Renewable Energy Deep Dive
Direct Energy
Reliant
Full Plan Tables
Which Provider Fits You Better?
Looking for the Lowest Rate?
Better fit: Reliant
Reliant has the lower advertised rate at 11.9c/kWh (1,000 kWh usage), compared to 13.3c/kWh.
Want a Long-Term Price Lock?
Better fit: Reliant
Reliant has the better option for locking in a rate on a 24-month contract.
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 Reliant?
Based on current plan data, Reliant has the lower advertised rate, offering plans starting at 11.9c/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 Reliant?
Neither Direct Energy nor Reliant 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 Reliant?
Direct Energy charges $150 - $395 (mixed fee types) on its tracked plans, while Reliant charges $95 - $295 (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 Reliant?
Reliant currently offers more plan options across the Texas TDU areas we track, with 79 plans compared to 46.
Can I switch from Direct Energy to Reliant?
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.