Direct Energy, one of the largest utility service providers in North America, recently unveiled a new Alexa skill that can help its customers manage their electricity account.
Direct Energy, one of the largest utility service providers in North America, recently unveiled a new Alexa skill that can help its customers manage their electricity account.
To get started managing accounts on an Alexa-enabled device, customers need to enable the skill through the Alexa app or Alexa Skill Store. With the command “Alexa, open Direct Energy,” the customers will be able to link their accounts using the Alexa app.
Once the accounts are linked, consumers can say “Alexa, ask Direct Energy…” for various purposes, including “for my bill due date,” “to make a payment,” “for information about the company,” “which of my appliances is using the most energy” and “what is my [weekly, monthly, or yearly] usage?
This launch comes just a week after Direct Energy announced a program to offer customers in Texas the ability to sign up for new fixed-price electricity plans that includes an Amazon Echo Dot at no additional charge. The Power on Command plan offers a 24-month fixed price option, and the Weekends on Command is a 24-month fixed price plan that includes free weekends.
“Today’s customers are demanding more from their energy providers through smarter devices and personalized energy recommendations. Direct Energy will continue to lead innovation through connected home experiences,” said Manu Asthana, president of Direct Energy, North America Home.
Direct Energy provides electricity, natural gas and energy-related services to over four million customers.