Direct Energy Helps Albertans Reduce Their Energy Bills with Nest Learning Thermostat

CALGARY, AB (February 3, 2014) - Direct Energy announced today that it is the first Canadian energy company to offer the Nest Learning Thermostat to Albertans who sign up for an energy plan. To launch this partnership, Direct Energy is offering new customers a Nest Learning Thermostat when they sign up for the 5-Year Comfort and Control Dual Fuel plan.

5-Year Comfort and Control Dual Fuel plan with a Nest Thermostat is an industry-leading offer, as customers pay a flexible natural gas price with the security of a winter cap and an electricity price that is fixed for the five-year term of the contract.

?With regulated natural gas and electricity rates being so volatile, we're giving Albertans the ability to take greater control of their home heating and cooling systems and providing them with one of the best energy plans in the province,? said Tanis Kozak, VP and General Manager, Canada Residential, Direct Energy. ?The Nest Learning Thermostat is an innovative product that could allow new Direct Energy customers to see significant savings on their energy bills while enjoying the benefits of a competitive gas and electric energy plan.?

The Nest Learning Thermostat learns a homeowner's heating and cooling behaviours to create a custom schedule for the home, and turns itself down when homeowners are away. Once the Nest Learning Thermostat learns a schedule, it can save homeowners up to 20 per cent on their heating and cooling bills according to calculations by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The Nest Thermostat takes the local weather into account when making adjustments, which is a major benefit when considering the temperature swings in Alberta. Nest users can also monitor and adjust their home's comfort system remotely by mobile device, tablet or computer.

?Direct Energy is a progressive energy company that clearly understands the value that Nest provides,? said Erik Charlton, Nest Vice President of Business. ?The 5-Year Comfort and Control Dual Fuel plan, which comes with a Nest Learning Thermostat, is a great example of Direct Energy's commitment to helping customers use energy wisely.?

The Nest Learning Thermostat is compatible with most residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. While professional installation of the Nest Learning thermostat is not required in most cases, customers who prefer a professional installation can contact a certified Nest installer.