Dynamics of the US Natural Gas Market:
by David Hsu, PhD, Direct Energy
Summary: If you’re hedging on the energy future markets, a look back at 2009 market dynamics will provide a better context for your decisions. This white paper explains the fundamental differences between futures and cash markets, provides a retrospective view of the 2009 price trends and draws distinctions between 2009 and 2010 futures market dynamics. The takeaway: today’s bearish market may not be all that it appears, and further biding your time may not offer the payoff that you’re banking on.
Protecting the Educational Promise:
Supporting Student Achievement through Best Practices in Electricity Procurement
Summary: By now, school business officials nationwide have felt the strain of shielding their educational programming budget from the demands of higher energy costs. This white paper was created to help school business officials understand the favorable electricity procurement opportunities that are available in competitive or deregulated markets. We introduce strategies that support the goal of directing the highest possible amount of funding to educational programming by effectively controlling the electricity spend. We describe proven approaches to controlling supply-side electricity costs, with the aim to more accurately estimate rates, secure the most competitive prices available and derive the greatest value from the electricity contract.
Successful Cost Control in a Volatile Electricity Market:
6 Fundamentals for Evaluating Buying Strategies for Industrials
Summary: This white paper describes how industrial businesses can successfully implement a custom procurement approach by evaluating electricity buying strategies in a new way. It sets forth criteria for the request for proposal (RFP) review process and guides the reader through a focused discussion on cost control opportunities within expectations for business performance. Case studies demonstrate the benefits that two industrial businesses have gained by adopting this portfolio approach. Click on the title above to view the white paper.
Pool Power:
Bringing Big-business Electricity Choices to Small and Mid-size Businesses
Summary: An electricity buying pool (also called aggregation) is an increasingly popular option for small and mid-size businesses seeking greater control of their electricity costs, particularly in today's volatile energy market. This white paper serves as a primer for businesses considering joining a pool. We outline the basic concepts behind the pricing for pool members, explain the characteristics of success and offer practical advice for selecting a pool program. Click on the title above to view the white paper.
Renewable Energy:
A Key Step on the Road to Sustainability
Summary: In today's hypercompetitive global economy, organizations are looking for any way to optimize suppy chain management and reduce costs through operating efficiencies. Yet at the same time, they are being held to higher standards for corporate social responsibility, a key element of which is the environmental impact of their business practices. One of the ways companies can demonstrate environmental responsibility is to purchase renewable energy. Unlike traditional fossil fuels, which are in finite supply and emit harmful greenhouse gases when consumer, renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, hydro and geothermal, cannot be depleted and minimize negative environmental impacts. Renewable energy certificates (RECs) allow companies to purchase the positive attributes of renewable energy and support the continued development of renewable energy generation facilities. This white paper explains the basics of renewable energy and outlines the choices companies have for purchasing RECs and "greening up" their power usage.
Electricity Choices:
Understanding the Basics of Market Volatility and Product Choices in a Deregulated Market
Summary: If you do business in a state that has deregulated electricity, you have the opportunity to choose an energy strategy that suits and supports your business objectives. Your selection process can be complicated by the volatility and complexity of energy markets. This white paper will review some of the market basics, which can help you navigate the selection process. It presents the variables that drive market volatility and an overview of products typically available through retail electricity suppliers. It also includes a discussion guide, which you can use to help you gather the information needed to make electricity choices with confidence.
