Direct Energy Welcomes PAPUC Review of Electricity Competition in Pennsylvania

April 28, 2011, Pittsburgh, PA…Direct Energy today issued the following statement with respect to the PAPUC decision to launch an investigation into ways to foster further development of competitive electricity markets in Pennsylvania:

“With today’s decision to launch an investigation, Chairman Powelson and the Commissioners of Pennsylvania’s utilities commission have demonstrated a commitment to the creation of one of America’s most competitive electricity markets,” said Ron Cerniglia, Director, National Advocacy for Direct Energy. “Pennsylvania’s electricity market continues to develop rapidly with the expiration of rate caps bringing more choice to consumers and placing downward pressure on prices. We are heartened to see the review will consider the positive impact of lifting default provider status from the utility, a move that can make Pennsylvania one of the most robust electricity markets in the nation.”

Direct Energy has pledged its full support to the PAPUC. “Direct Energy would welcome the opportunity to support the commission in their investigation,” Cerniglia added. “We are hopeful that the findings of the commission will help millions of Pennsylvania energy consumers enjoy the benefits of competition.”

###

About Direct Energy
Direct Energy is one of North America's largest energy and energy-related service providers with over 6 million residential and commercial customer relationships. Direct Energy provides customers with choice and support in managing their energy costs through a portfolio of innovative products and services. A subsidiary of Centrica plc (LSE:CNA), one of the world's leading integrated energy companies, Direct Energy operates in 46 states and 10 provinces in Canada. For more information visit http://www.directenergy.com/.

For more information, please contact:
Bethany L. Ruhe
Manager, Public Relations
Bethany.ruhe@directenergy.com
412.841.3818 (mobile)
412.667.5616 (office)