Are you a part of my natural gas company?
Direct Energy is a licensed supplier of natural gas in Massachusetts, Rhode Island and Connecticut and we are independent from your local utility. We arrange the supply of natural gas for our customers. The gas is then delivered to you by your existing local utility.
What kinds of pricing options does Direct Energy offer?
Our product offerings for natural gas supply fall into two basic categories: fixed and indexed. A fixed price is set for the term of the contract, and in positive market positions, it offers the best option for protecting against rising energy costs. An indexed price is tied to the NYMEX natural gas markets, and varies by month. But Direct Energy allows you the opportunity to convert that price from variable to fixed, to “lock-in” for the remainder of the contract, when conditions are right for you - allowing your business to have supply security and budget protection.
What are the benefits to choosing Direct Energy’s fixed-rate plan?
As your natural gas supplier, Direct Energy will guarantee that your natural gas commodity price will not increase for your contract duration. The natural gas commodity portion of your bill represents approximately 2/3 of your total natural gas bill. Utility supply rates can fluctuate frequently – even on a monthly basis. We offer a stable rate, guaranteed not to increase, especially during winter months! This "peace of mind" offer is available through our fixed price and term contract.
If I switch natural gas suppliers, will my reliability be affected?
The local utility is not allowed to provide different service levels to customers that have chosen an alternate supplier. You can be rest assured that you will continue to receive the same level of natural gas delivery, emergency response and meter reading from your current utility. Your utility service provider will not change, just the supplier of your natural gas.
If I choose Direct Energy, will my billing structure change?
Your utility will bill you for transportation and delivery charges and Direct Energy will provide a bill for your natural gas costs.
What do I do if my natural gas goes out?
If you smell gas, suspect a leak or have a natural gas emergency, call your local utility.
Are there any costs to enroll?
There are absolutely no costs to enroll.
How dedicated is your company to this market? How do I know you'll stay?
Direct Energy currently serves over 30,000 business customers in Massachusetts, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Ohio and Pennsylvania - and we continue to grow. We understand that cost savings and reliability are only the beginning of a customer relationship. A local presence is important to provide customers with the quality service they deserve, which is why our office is located in Connecticut.
Is it easy to switch to Direct Energy?
Yes - becoming a Direct Energy customer is easy! We would be happy to prepare a free gas-purchasing plan for your business. Simply email us at directenergy_ne@na.centrica.com or call us at 1-800-260-0300 and an account manager will collect information to develop a customized natural gas quote for your facility. We will provide the necessary documents to switch your account to Direct Energy, where you'll enjoy price control and excellent customer service.
How does deregulation work?
- Customers choose a new supplier for electricity or natural gas supply.
- While choosing Direct Energy, the consumer will continue to have their service and delivery provided by their current local utility.
- Marketers, like Direct Energy, buy electricity or natural gas supply for its customers and have it delivered to the local utility.
- The utility then distributes the electricity or natural gas to the customer.
- Regulated utilities make their money on the delivery and service.
Why is deregulation beneficial?
Under deregulation, marketers may be able to purchase electricity or natural gas and sell it at a lower price to the consumer then was previously available before deregulation.
- Price Protection (with a wider variety of pricing options).
- Lower prices may now be available to the consumer.
- More product plans are available for customers.
- Prices may be stabilized for the consumer.
- Better customer service.
- Freedom of Choice.
Page Last Modified: October 31, 2006
