10 July 2019
 Categories: , Blog

If you're a business owner who feels continually squeezed by your overhead costs, particularly utilities, you may wonder whether there's any way to save money on this expense, short of keeping your AC at an uncomfortably warm temperature or investing in motion-controlled lights. For many commercial property owners and chief executives, using an energy broker can ensure that you're getting the lowest possible rates for your energy usage. Read on to learn more about the ins and outs of using a commercial energy broker and what you can expect from the process. 

The Role of a Commercial Energy Broker

Just like other types of brokers, a commercial energy broker acts as an intermediary between you and the ultimate seller of the product you're purchasing. An energy broker can shop around for current electricity rates and providers, work with you on short- and long-term energy usage strategies, negotiate energy contracts, and just about everything else that goes into the energy purchasing process.

In exchange for their services, the broker will either receive a flat fee or a percentage of your monthly energy costs. But because an energy broker has specific experience in negotiating energy rates and determining the most effective and economical option for a variety of business sizes and types, they're almost always able to save you a significant amount when compared to what you're currently paying.  

Factors to Consider

In deciding whether using an energy broker is the right choice for your business, you'll want to consider factors like the following: 

• How much your energy usage fluctuates from month to month or year to year.
• What proportion of your overall overhead expenses consist of energy expenses.
• How much time you have to devote to shopping around for energy rates on your own.

For businesses that don't use much energy or that have mostly non-energy-related overhead costs, using an electricity broker may not pay off in the form of cost savings. On the other hand, businesses with cyclic energy needs or those that are hoping to slash their energy bills can almost always benefit from an energy broker.

How to Get Started

The advent of the internet means that you no longer need to rely on finding an energy broker locally. Check online for positive reviews of established companies. And when choosing an energy broker, always shop around to make sure you're getting the most competitive fee and that you're able to obtain your preferred level of customer service. Find a commercial electricity broker near you in order to learn more.