DIRECT ENERGY COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF STRATEGIC ENERGY

TORONTO (June 2, 2008) – Direct Energy, one of North America’s leading integrated energy companies, today announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Strategic Energy LLC, a subsidiary of Great Plains Energy Inc. (NYSE: GXP). 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.”

About Direct Energy
Direct Energy is one of North America’s largest energy and energy-related services providers with over 5 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 22 states plus DC and 10 provinces in Canada. To learn more about Direct Energy, visit www.directenergy.com.

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For more information, please contact:
Priscilla Tinsley
713.877.3733
priscilla.tinsley@directenergy.com