Direct Energy enters Pittsburgh power market

"For close to a decade, Pennsylvania has been leading the way for competitive energy markets, with the supportive efforts of legislators and utility regulators," said Steven Murray, president of Direct Energy's residential business. "We are continuing to build on our success of providing customers a choice in the energy marketplace, in regions like Pennsylvania that have shown such a commitment to competition."

Specifically, Direct Energy will offer residential electricity customers a 12-month variable rate plan that is guaranteed to provide a 5 percent savings off the residential rate Rate RS for electricity, with no early cancellation fee.

Direct Energy's entry into the Duquesne Light service territory expands its Pennsylvania footprint for retail energy service. The company already has a strong and established presence in Pennsylvania that serves residential customers in the Pike County, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and PPL service territories. Direct Energy Business, the company's division that serves large commercial and industrial customers in the Duquesne Light and PPL territories, such as the Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre and Heinz Field, is headquartered in Pittsburgh with more than 300 employees.

The company also recently announced the completion of its acquisition of Clockwork Home Services, Inc., making the combined company the largest provider of heating and cooling, plumbing and electrical services in the United States and Canada. Clockwork Home Services, including its 29 small businesses in Pennsylvania, employ an additional 500 people throughout the state. Clockwork's businesses operate under the brands One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning, Benjamin Franklin Plumbing and Mister Sparky.

"Direct Energy is a stable, financially strong company, offering integrated home services and energy products 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 Murray.