Aerial view of highways and high voltage metal post in the industrial estate. Electricity tower. Top view of green trees in forest landscape in Taichung Downtown, urban city, Taiwan.For homeowners and small businesses, navigating deregulated energy markets can be tricky. Keeping track of rates, rules, and industry trends is a complex endeavor requiring specialized knowledge and insight. To save time, many people hire an energy broker to guide them through the process. Energy brokers help you make informed decisions about your energy supply, drawing on years of experience to find the right partner for your needs and budget. In this blog, we’ll answer the question “What is an energy broker?” ‒ what they do, how they work, and why you should consider using one.

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>What is an Energy Broker?

Energy brokers are professional intermediaries who spend their time researching energy markets ‒ pricing, technology, developments, legislation, etc. They don’t sell energy. Instead, they act as middlemen, using their expertise to connect suppliers and consumers. 

America has almost a million energy brokers, a number that increases every year as more states deregulate. Prices in these markets rise and fall constantly, so choosing the right plan can be a challenge. Brokers help you compare quotes and assess the value of the services offered by suppliers, in order to make the right choice for your home or business.&lt;/span></p>

<h2>e=”font-weight: 400;”&gt;What Does an Energy Broker Do?</p>

<p><span class=”yoast-text-mark”>class=”yoast-text-mark”&gt;e=”font-weight: 400;”&gt;The primary goal of an energ

y broker is to help their clients obtain a reliable supply of gas and electricity at a reasonable cost. Households and small businesses rely on them for:&lt;/span&gt;</p>

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sly monitor the energy market. By tracking rate fluctuations, new technologies, and regulatory changes, they present their clients with the most up-to-date information on pricing and service.</span>

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ass=”yoast-text-mark”&gt;yle=”font-weight: 400;”&gt;. Before presenting options, brokers meet with their clients to disc

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an energy program that aligns with their needs.&lt;/ul>

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  • yle=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″&gt;Contract Management.“>style=”font-weight: 400;”> After they’ve finished negotiating, brokers review the agreement with their clients, ensuring they understand the rates, provisions, expiration dates, and renewal options.
  • le=”font-weight: 400;” aria-level=”1″>>Risk Management</b>&lt;span style=”font-weight: 400;”&gt;. By keeping tabs on wholesale costs, weather patterns, and grid conditions, brokers can advise their clients when to adjust their usage or switch suppliers, to help them avoid energy disruptions.

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Besides simplifying the buying process, energy brokers also handle administration, renewing contracts or submitting paperwork to new suppliers, to ensure your service runs smoothly.

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”&gt;Are Energy Brokers Expensive?</h2>

le=”font-weight: 400;”>Rather than charge a flat fee, most energy brokers make their mon

ey by charging a commission for the energy consumed over the length of your contract. They do this by adding a small fee or margin to the supplier’s rate, often less than a cent per unit. (Electricity is charged in kilowatt hours, while natural gas is charged in therms or cubic feet.) Partnering with brokers is often less expensive than hiring a salaried sales staff, so in many cases suppliers cover the commission instead of passing the cost along to their customers.

<span style=”font-weight: 400;”>How Do I Find an Energy Broker?

Energy brokers are a common feature in deregulated gas and electricity markets. A local internet search should bring up the ones servicing your area. You can also consult business directories and energy platforms, such as:

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Keep in mind that while some brokers work with both residential and commercial clients, others work exclusively with homeowners or small businesses. Once you’ve compiled a list of suitable candidates, reach out and see whether they’re the right fit. A few questions to ask:

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  • el=””>=”1″>Can you provide a breakdown of your fees and commission?
  • aria-level=”1″><span style=”font-weight: 400;”>Do you offer dedicated account support or online management tools?
  • e=”font-weight: 400;”>Are you registered with any industry associations?
  • evel=”1″>”font-weight: 400;”>Do you have any professional certifications, such as Certified Energy Procurement Professional from the Association of Energy Engineers (AEE)?</li>

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Finally, check their references. A reputable broker should be able to provide reviews and feedback from customers, documenting their track record of service and savings. Researching and comparing brokers is the best way to find one capable of meeting your needs and managing your long-term energy costs.