Direct Energy Enters Ameren Residential Electricity Market

PIITSBURG - - Direct Energy announced today that the company will begin providing competitive electricity supply services to residential customers in the Ameren service territory of southern Illinois. With increased competition creating opportunities to shop around for a great deal, customers now have an attractive new choice from one of North America's largest integrated energy companies.

With approximately 1.3 million total customers, Ameren ranks as the second largest electricity utility in the state of Illinois.

"For close to a decade, Illinois has had a presence in competitive energy markets, with the supportive efforts of legislators and utility regulators," said Cory Byzewski, Vice President and General Manager of Direct Energy Residential US North. "We are continuing to build on our success of providing customers a choice in the energy marketplace, and grow our business in Illinois which has shown a commitment to competition."

Specifically, Direct Energy will offer residential electricity customers a 12 month fixed rate plan of $.0534 per kWh, which can provide at least a 16 savings off the residential utility rate for electricity. Participants who choose this low fixed rate are protected against rising electricity rates. Furthermore, Direct Energy is confident this is the one of the best offers in the market and will not charge a cancellation fee should participants choose to change providers at any time, allowing customers the ability to have full control over their electric bills.

Direct Energy's entry into the Ameren service territory expands its Illinois footprint for retail energy service. The company already has a strong and established presence in Illinois that serves residential and business customers in the northern parts of the state.

"Direct Energy is a stable, financially strong company, offering integrated home services and energy products in Illinois with a vision for growth and a commitment to competitive markets and the benefits they bring to customers – lower prices, innovative products and great customer service," said Byzewski.