Direct Energy Powers City of Lancaster Community Choice Aggregation Plan

Lancaster, CA (May 1, 2015) - The City of Lancaster, California, has selected Direct Energy Business as the electric service provider for its new Community Choice Aggregation (CCA) power program. Phase one of the program launches today. Lancaster's agreement with Direct Energy Business includes robust renewable energy options, as well as fixed energy prices that are three percent below Southern California Edison's standard fees.

The program, Lancaster Choice Energy, includes two offers: Clear Choice, a 35 percent renewable energy product, and Smart Choice, which provides 100 percent renewable energy at an additional cost.

"Energy service is transforming, for the better, with innovations like California's CCA model that provides consumers and businesses more choices and more control. Direct Energy is excited to join with Lancaster Choice Energy to meet growing demand for significantly more renewable and affordable energy," said John Schultz, President, Direct Energy Business.

CCA is an innovative state policy that allows local governments to choose the source, type, and pricing of energy to be provided to its citizens, while continuing to use the existing utility distribution system for power delivery. Direct Energy Business is one of the largest commercial retail energy suppliers in North America, with more than 250,000 customers.

Lancaster Choice Energy is the third CCA program in California, and the first enacted by a non-county, as well as the first within the Southern California Edison service area. In addition to its goal of becoming the nation's first net-zero city, Lancaster also aims to meet or exceed the California Renewable Portfolio Standard (RPS) requiring 25 percent of electricity used within the city of Lancaster to be renewably generated by 2016, and 33 percent by 2020.

"Lancaster has been at the forefront of creating an innovative sustainable living environment. We're pleased to have chosen Direct Energy, a recognized innovator in energy services to help us bring this vision to life," said Lancaster Mayor R. Rex Parris. "Direct Energy's expertise, diverse portfolio of energy options - with a priority on renewables - and commitment to customer service, make them the ideal partner for Lancaster Choice Energy."

The agreement is effective May 1, 2015 through December 31, 2019. As part of the agreement, Direct Energy also will serve as Lancaster Choice Energy's scheduling coordinator with the California Independent System Operator (CAISO).

For further information, please contact:
Jessica Michan
Direct Energy
jessica.michan@directenergy.com
713-904-7488