Direct Energy completes acquisition of Strategic Energy LLC

Direct Energy, one of North America's leading integrated energy companies, has completed its acquisition of Strategic Energy LLC, a subsidiary of Great Plains Energy Inc. This transaction positions Direct Energy's existing commercial and industrial business unit, Direct Energy Business, as a top three competitive retailer of gas and electricity to commercial and industrial customers in North America. "The purchase of Strategic Energy strengthens our presence in all major competitive energy markets and creates a solid foundation for future growth," said Direct Energy chairman and CEO, Deryk King. "We are committed to leading the industry by offering customers the most innovative and effective strategies for managing their energy demands." Direct Energy is one of North America's largest energy and energy-related services providers with over 5 million residential and commercial customer relationships.