Energy and Electricity Deregulation Blog

Capacity Isnt Just Another Line Item - It's the Hidden Risk Most Energy Contracts Don't Explain

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 19:28:57 GMT

Capacity Isn’t Just Another Line Item — It’s the Hidden Risk Most Energy Contracts Don’t Explain

If you’ve reviewed an electricity contract recently, you’ve probably seen the words:
“Fixed All-In Rate.”

It sounds simple. Predictable. Safe.

But buried inside that promise is a single cost component that has quietly become the largest source of future price risk in the PJM energy market:

Capacity.

And unless you know exactly how your supplier treats it, your “fixed rate” may not be as fixed as you think.

First, what is capacity - in plain English?

Imagine the power grid like an airline.

Energy is the fuel used during the flight.
Capacity is the airline reserving enough planes ahead of time so passengers aren’t stranded.

Even if no one boards the plane, the airline still pays to have it ready.

The grid works the same way. Grid operators pay power plants to be available — just in case demand spikes during extreme heat or cold. That “reservation cost” is called capacity.

And right now, that reservation cost has surged.

Recent PJM capacity auctions cleared at historically high levels, reflecting tighter supply, growing demand from data centers, and fewer dispatchable generation resources available when the grid needs them most.

Those costs flow directly into commercial electricity contracts.

The most important detail most contracts don’t clarify

Capacity operates on a fixed calendar known as the PJM Delivery Year , which runs from:

June 1 through May 31

Think of it as a financial “season” for capacity pricing.

Right now, capacity pricing is fully known and published through May 2028 .

This creates a critical dividing line.

Contracts that end before that date can be fully hedged.
Contracts that extend beyond that date may carry adjustment risk — depending on how the supplier structures the agreement.

And here’s the key:

Not all “fixed rate” contracts handle this risk the same way.

Our team recently completed a deep dive across multiple national suppliers

We asked a very simple question:

When suppliers say capacity is “included for all known values,” what exactly does that mean?

The answers revealed a wide spectrum of approaches.

Some suppliers fully hedge capacity costs for the entire contract term — even absorbing market volatility internally.

Others hedge only the currently published periods, reserving the right to adjust once new capacity pricing is released.

Still others use hybrid structures, where certain capacity-related variables may still move under specific conditions.

On the surface, these contracts can look identical.

But structurally, they are not.

And that difference can materially affect long-term price stability.

Why this matters now more than ever

Capacity costs have become one of the fastest-moving components of commercial electricity pricing.

In prior years, capacity represented a relatively small portion of total supply costs. Today, it can account for 20% to 40% of the total supply rate — and in some cases, even more.

This means how capacity is treated in your contract can directly influence whether your rate remains stable… or shifts unexpectedly.

It’s not about whether capacity exists — it always does.

It’s about who carries the risk.

You, or the supplier.

What we’re advising clients today

Because capacity pricing is fully known through May 2028, this creates a strategic opportunity.

Clients can lock contracts that align with this published window and eliminate uncertainty tied to future auction outcomes.

This allows businesses to secure predictable energy costs while preserving flexibility to reassess the market once the next capacity cycle becomes clearer.

Think of it like locking your mortgage rate when interest rates are known — instead of leaving it floating into unknown territory.

The goal isn’t simply to lock longer or shorter.

The goal is to lock smarter.

The bottom line

Capacity is no longer just another technical detail in an energy contract.

It’s one of the defining factors separating truly fixed pricing from pricing that only appears fixed.

The good news is that today’s market still offers opportunities to secure stability — if contracts are structured properly and aligned with known capacity cycles.

At Ananta Energy Source, our operations team continuously analyzes supplier contract structures, auction outcomes, and market signals to ensure our clients are positioned with the most stable and strategic options available.

Because protecting our clients isn’t just about finding the lowest rate today.

It’s about protecting them from the risks they can’t see tomorrow.

Energy Market Update: What Happened, What’s Next, and How We Navigate the Next 30 Days

Mon, 17 Nov 2025 18:02:14 GMT

Energy Market Update: What Happened, What’s Next, and How We Navigate the Next 30 Days

As we head into the busiest stretch of the year for energy renewals, I want to provide every Ananta client with a clear, transparent update on what’s happening in the market — and what we need to do together in the coming days to protect your budgets in 2026.

Between now and mid-December, we have roughly 125+ individual entities whose electric contracts need to be hedged. With Thanksgiving next week (and a market holiday), suppliers short-staffed, and enrollment windows tightening, the timeline to make informed decisions is extremely compressed. This is one of those rare moments where speed and clarity matter as much as pricing.

1. The Market Shifted — Fast

When we began this process around October 21, 2025 , natural gas futures (NG1!) were trading near $3.40/MMBtu . Today, they’re in the mid-$4s , with recent closes around $4.50–$4.60/MMBtu — a 30% jump in just a few weeks , and more than 50–60% higher than where gas was trading on October 17 .

If you zoom out a bit more, natural gas was hovering near $2.90/MMBtu in late summer , making today’s levels almost 60% higher than only a few months ago, and roughly 50% higher than this time last year.

This dramatic increase is the single biggest factor influencing supplier pricing right now. Suppliers hedge your load directly off the NYMEX curve, so when the wholesale cost of gas spikes, fixed rates move with it—quickly.

2. Why the Buying Group Didn't Deliver Huge Discounts

Many clients hoped that assembling a combined “buying group” would materially outperform individual pricing. Under normal conditions, that can sometimes happen. But two realities worked against us:

The market surged faster than suppliers could quote.
Rates were being prepared during the same days gas jumped over 20–30%.
The load mix leaned more toward smaller accounts than large ones , which made the group less attractive to suppliers offering market-based structures.

Because of this, the “buying group vs. individual pricing” difference is minimal this round, and to keep things moving quickly, we are quoting most properties individually from here on.

3. The Clock Is Ticking — Enrollment Windows Matter

Suppliers and utilities typically need 12–20 days before your next meter read to process an enrollment. In rare cases, existing suppliers can squeeze an enrollment through in 7 days , but that cannot be counted on.

Example:
If your meter read is December 10 , we need to begin conversations and final decisions now — not in early December .

Waiting too late risks defaulting to supplier variable rates, which normally come in at a HUGE premium . We want to obviously avoid the latter.

4. Why Short-Term Rates (1–6 Months) Are Higher Than Long-Term Rates

This surprises many clients every winter:

Short-Term Contracts (1–6 months): Overweight winter (Dec–Feb), so they price higher.
12–36 Month Contracts: Blend in cheaper non-winter months (Apr–Oct), sometimes making them cheaper than a short-term bridge.

Right now, that dynamic is very clear in the futures curve: winter strips are trading well above the 12-month strip.

5. A Look Back at History (May-September 2025)

This year’s context matters. Between May and September (Traditional Fully-Fixed Pricing with Capacity Included) :

Short-term pricing (3–6 months) was holding at 5–6¢/kWh ,
Long-term (12–24 months) was coming in 7.5–8¢; especially since they extended into the 2026 year.
And 2027–2028 terms often priced in the upper-7s to high-8s .

Short-term renewals were the financially responsible move at the time: they reduced near-term costs and delayed higher long-term pricing while our team spent a lot of time analyzing the Capacity Pass Through (PT) product.

What no one expected was a 50–60% run-up in natural gas over the last 30 days. That spike reset supplier pricing across the board, pushing most 2026 offers up toward the 8¢/kWh range , even after good negotiations.

6. Advanced Products: Hybrid, Index, Capacity Pass-Through

A few clients have asked about more advanced, variable market products. We’re actively confirming supplier thresholds, but here’s the early picture:

Many hybrid products (Block & Index, Load Following) are reserved for larger accounts
(often 1M–5M+ kWh per year ).
The typical hotel load of ~500,000 kWh/year usually does not qualify for these products.
For smaller usage levels, our practical options are generally:
Full-requirements fixed,
Full index,
or Capacity pass-through (case by case).

We’ll address hybrid options individually with those who requested them.

7. What Happens Next

Over the next two weeks, our team will be moving quickly to:

Present updated pricing options — both short-term and long-term.
Clarify your risk tolerance — whether you’re bullish or bearish, we’ll have options prepared that align with your comfort level.
Move accounts into enrollment windows on time , so no one risks defaulting to utility rates.
Hedge your 2026 exposure responsibly , using whichever structure makes the most sense for your property.

We remain fully committed to open-book transparency , real data, and helping every client make the best possible decision in a fast-moving market.

Please respond promptly when you receive options from our team — timing is everything right now .

We’ll navigate this together, one decision at a time.

Ohio Hotels: The 2025 Energy Data Every Owner Needs — And No Supplier Publishes

Thu, 13 Nov 2025 20:10:20 GMT

2025 Ohio Utility Price-To-Compare (PTC)

Let's begin by understanding where your utility's default rates (PTC) have been historically. As early as August 2022, our team has been tracking the average default prices the Public Utility Commissions of Ohio (PUCO) have been publishing, so the graphs/rates you see below are directly sourced by PUCO. Regardless of where you're located in Ohio, you'll notice that energy prices peaked in 2023-2024, and are peaking again as of June 2025.

Real Pricing Trends We're Seeing for Ananta Clients

In 2025, Ananta Energy Source was responsible for pricing and hedging 235 different entities, most of which are exclusive to hospitality energy accounts. As many of you are aware, we've been very vocal of the two most popular energy products:

Full-Requirement Products
Traditional all-in fixed rates that include Capacity costs with suppliers who WILL NOT adjust the rates
**NEW** Fixed-Energy Product w/Capacity Pass Through (PT)
Similar to the traditional product, but excluding capacity costs, which are now appearing as an additional line item (roughly 2 pennies [aka $0.02/kWh] on average)

Out of the 235 entities, 119 entities (51%) elected to renew/sign-up with the traditional Full-Requirements product, and the remaining 116 entities (49%) elected to renew/sign-up with the New Fixed-Energy Product w/Capacity PT. Below are the average rates along with the highest and lowest rates for both product types:

Hedged energy rates depend on market timing and your hotel’s unique load factor. Just like fingerprints, no two hotels use energy the same way—so pricing is always individualized. Also, please note that there is a very strong correlation between short-term deals in 2025 being way cheaper and a very strong correlation between long-term deals being the most expensive. Hence, please don't skew the data and think a hotel owner was able to find a $0.05203/kWh Fully Fixed rate with capacity included for 5 years.

Below is a bar-chart describing the contract term length our clients elected to enroll for 2025. As you can see, many individuals chose to do short-term energy contracts vs. long-term since the rates were notably cheaper (ie: $0.015/kWh - $0.025/kWh cheaper). With the market being in contango, everyone has to pay a large premium to lock in for the long-term, and this very typical in a bullish market.

How Current Supplier Bids Compare to These Benchmarks

Not much has changed in pricing offers with respect to the term and months you're heding.

For our clients who were bullish and had a low risk-tolerance in 2025, elected to go long-term, the Full-Requirement rates we presented throughout 2025 were in the mid 7 to mid 8 range (ie: $0.075/kWh - $0.085/kWh ).

For everyone else we presented to, the new Fixed-Energy Product w/Capacity PT, a majority of terms that extended into 2026 were over 6 cents and ranged between 6 - 7 cents (ie: $0.06/kWh - $0.07/kWh )

What does this mean?

In simple terms, the long-term rates we tried to avoid earlier in the year — because they carried a $0.015–$0.02/kWh premium — are now roughly the same rates we’re being forced to consider today.

The bad news?

These prices are still higher than what hotels were used to seeing historically.

The good news?

They remain lower than the $0.09–$0.10/kWh utility default rates that Ohio hotels have been paying since June 2025 , which still gives our clients meaningful savings compared to staying on utility supply.

Final Thoughts

I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: 2025 has easily been one of the most challenging and interesting years we’ve seen in energy procurement. I’ve joked in almost every meeting that we’re all “ going back to school ,” because this year forced everyone — brokers, hotels, suppliers, analysts — to relearn how these products actually work.

For nearly two decades, most hotels relied on the same product: the traditional Full-Requirements fixed rate that included capacity. Then the market shifted, and suppliers introduced something completely new: Fixed Energy with Capacity Pass-Through (PT) . Overnight, the industry had to adjust. And because PT separates capacity into its own line item, understanding whether it benefits a customer requires actual data — not guesswork.

This is where participation matters. Capacity PT can only be evaluated properly by reviewing real invoices , month by month. For clients who send invoices immediately, thank you — seriously. You make deeper analysis possible. For those who are stretched thin (which is most hotel owners right now), we totally understand; just know that delays understandably slow down how quickly we can complete the math.

To give some perspective:

116 entities enrolled in Capacity PT earlier this year.
That’s five months of invoices each (June–October).
That’s 580 invoices my team has to review, calculate, and compare against wholesale capacity values. It’s a massive lift, but it’s the only way to get real answers.

At Ananta, we take pride in being transparent and data-driven , and in helping clients make decisions based on their risk tolerance , usage patterns, and actual numbers. That’s always been our style — open-book pricing, no fluff, no pressure.

Right now, we’re still waiting on a few more suppliers to return aggregated pricing, while simultaneously managing nearly 60 December expirations so no one accidentally ends up on a variable default rate.

More updates are coming as new information arrives. Thank you, truly, for your trust and patience during one of the most complex energy years we’ve ever experienced.

2025 Energy Procurement Strategy: What I’d Do If This Were My Hotel

Tue, 11 Nov 2025 16:30:20 GMT

2025 Energy Strategy: What I’d Do If This Were My Hotel

Every month, hotel owners ask me the same two questions:

“If this were your hotel, what would you do?”
“Which energy supplier truly has the best rates?”

Both are fair—and both deserve more than a one-size-fits-all answer.

Understanding Each Hotel’s Variables

When I advise clients, I look at brand, room count, ADR, market conditions, forecasted rate increases, and risk tolerance. The goal is to find out how quickly a hotel can recover the cost of future rate hikes. Using ADR and annual consumption, we can calculate how many extra rooms a hotel must sell to break even. For example: if rates rise by $0.015/kWh on 500,000 kWh (≈ $7,500 per year) and your ADR is $150, that’s about 50 additional occupied nights—or roughly 4 to 5 extra rooms per month . Seeing the math in room-night terms makes the energy conversation tangible.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rates

Over the past 2–3 years, short-term contracts (5–6 months) have been consistently cheaper than long-term agreements (36–60 months) by roughly $0.015–$0.02/kWh —equating to $7,500–$10,000 in annual savings for a typical mid-size hotel. This pricing pattern reflects a contango market structure, where long-dated energy futures trade above near-term ones. Paying today to lock in for the long haul often means pre-paying a “future risk premium.”

By contrast, a backwardated market—where long-term prices are lower—has been rare in the U.S. natural-gas and power markets for several years. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration , current natural-gas futures remain in contango, reinforcing why short-term strategies have remained cost-effective.

Supplier Transparency and “Fixed” Pricing

Supplier selection in 2025 is about trust and contract language, not just price. “Fixed Price” no longer means the same thing: many suppliers now include adjustment clauses allowing mid-term rate changes when capacity costs are unsettled. Some even allow only upward adjustments, creating one-sided risk for customers.

Another industry trend is the Capacity Pass-Through (PT) product. Nearly every supplier promotes it as the “cheapest” option, but real-world data tell a mixed story. About 40 % of Ananta clients currently testing PT products have experienced fluctuating monthly results—some months saving, others losing—depending on how suppliers apply capacity charges and clients’ Peak Load Contribution (PLC) values. Auditing these details requires collecting invoices, converting capacity to $/kWh, and verifying supplier math, all of which demand significant analysis.

Market Conditions and Timing

Since mid-October, natural-gas futures have risen nearly 48 %, pushing electricity offers higher. To coordinate our Ohio Buying Group, we issued updated POAs on October 23 and AEP LOA requests by October 31. Given current volatility and supplier enrollment windows, some December 2025 expirations may shift to January 2026 to ensure all accounts are captured under the most favorable group rate.

Final Thoughts

Energy procurement in 2025 isn’t just about chasing the lowest number on paper—it’s about aligning contract terms, market timing, and each hotel’s operational goals. By treating every property like our own, we focus on measurable, transparent outcomes—helping hotel owners manage costs today while staying agile for tomorrow’s market.

2025 Hotel Aggregation | Energy: Electricity & Natural Gas

Tue, 21 Oct 2025 12:01:35 GMT

Fighting Back Against Ohio’s Capacity Rate Hikes: How Hotel Owners Can Leverage Ananta’s Proven Approach

A Message to Ohio’s Hotel Owners

If you operate a hotel in Ohio, you’ve likely felt it — the sharp rise in energy costs driven by recent PJM capacity rate hikes. What used to be a manageable line item has become one of your biggest controllable expenses. The question is:

How can independent and small-portfolio hotel owners push back against a market that feels stacked in favor of the big players?

The answer: leverage collective buying power and the right partner.

A Track Record That Spans Nearly Two Decades

Ananta Energy Source’s story starts long before energy procurement was fashionable. Our founder, Merrill Mangalasseril, began brokering energy in 2006, working directly with businesses in deregulated markets like Ohio, Illinois, and Texas. What started as one-on-one consulting quickly evolved into helping groups of business owners — especially hoteliers — buy energy in bulk to level the playing field.

By 2010, Merrill was already organizing early-stage energy aggregations — long before “buying groups” became industry buzzwords.

Clients printed and faxed wet-signed contracts to meet supplier deadlines, and Merrill personally scanned and uploaded dozens of agreements before the 5 p.m. hedge window closed.

Those early experiences shaped what Ananta stands for today:

Transparency in pricing
Fiduciary-style advocacy for clients
Protecting small and mid-sized business owners from overpaying in complex markets

How the Market Changed — and Why It Matters

Fast-forward to 2025, and the energy world looks entirely different. Suppliers who once valued relationships are now laser-focused on risk and performance metrics — largely because many lost millions during the Texas Winter Storm of 2021 and more recently during capacity cost surges in PJM for June 2025–May 2026.

As a result:

Suppliers now demand Power of Attorney (POA) documents to include accounts in bulk buying groups.
The decision window has shrunk — from 5 p.m. to 3 p.m. EST for same-day booking.
Win-rate performance dictates how brokers like Ananta are treated; suppliers prefer brokers who execute efficiently and bring serious volume.

That’s why Merrill and the Ananta team are assembling Ohio’s next major hotel aggregation — one that unites 146 entities, 190 accounts, and over 60 million kWh of annual usage across AEP, AES, Duke, and FirstEnergy territories.

Why This Aggregation Matters for Ohio Hotels

Hotel owners face unique challenges in energy procurement:

Usage patterns peak in the evening when energy costs are highest.
Seasonal fluctuations make budget forecasting difficult.
Many franchise and management groups have fragmented portfolios spread across utilities.

By combining usage across dozens of hotels, Ananta can attempt the following:

✅ Negotiate rates ½¢–1¢ per kWh lower than individual properties could obtain alone

✅ Lock in more favorable terms (6–60 months) with supplier flexibility

✅ Simplify decision-making — one procurement event instead of 100

✅ Create long-term stability through transparent, open-book pricing

Why Merrill and Ananta Are Different

While most brokers promise “transparency,” few actually live it. Ananta discloses margins, educates clients on supplier cost components, and encourages apples-to-apples comparisons across bids — even when it means losing a deal.

After nearly 19 years of working with every major supplier in Ohio, Merrill knows which ones consistently deliver on their promises — and which quietly build hidden fees or capacity pass-through surprises into contracts.

When Merrill says his mission is to look out for the “little guys,” it isn’t just rhetoric. It’s personal. Ananta’s hotel clients are often first-generation business owners , families who’ve built their livelihoods property by property. The company’s role is to protect their bottom line with the same care a CFO would.

So, What Can You Do Now?

If you’re a hotel owner in Ohio, you have a choice:

Go it alone, negotiating one contract at a time in a volatile market, or
Join a collective, with Merrill and the Ananta team leading an RFP designed specifically for Ohio’s hospitality community.

With notarized Power of Attorney documents in place, Ananta can lock in rates on your behalf within approved parameters — ensuring you don’t miss market dips due to supplier deadlines or decision bottlenecks.

In Summary

The energy market has changed — but so has Ananta.

What began as one broker helping hotels fax in signatures has become a full-scale, data-driven procurement platform representing millions of kilowatt-hours.

And as capacity rates climb, the value of experience, trust, and bulk negotiation power has never been higher.

If you’ve ever thought, “Why can’t smaller hotel owners get the same energy leverage as the big REITs or management groups?” — this is your chance.

Purchase in bulk. Hedge smart. And let Merrill lead the way.

Ready to Learn More?

�� Email us at merrillm@goananta.com

�� Visit www.goananta.com/blog

�� Schedule a call with our team to join the Ohio Hospitality Aggregation Initiative

Transparency, Trust, and Community: What Sets Us Apart in Energy Procurement

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 14:27:29 GMT

Transparency, Trust, and Community: What Sets Us Apart in Energy Procurement

In the world of deregulated energy, the word transparency gets thrown around often. Many of our direct competitors claim to be “open-book” from day one, making it their core differentiator. But when we’ve had the opportunity to review proposals brought to us by clients, what we’ve found is that transparency is often conditional — offered only when pushed, or when it benefits the energy broker.

At Ananta Energy Source, transparency isn’t a marketing slogan. It’s part of our DNA. Since 2011, we’ve operated under the belief that every client deserves a clear view into supplier pricing, margins, and market dynamics. For us, “open-book” isn’t optional — it’s how we’ve built trust and loyalty across hundreds of commercial accounts.

Beyond Contracts: Relationships Built on Intimacy

Our clients don’t just receive proposals. They get a partner who understands their business as if it were our own. Whether it’s hotels navigating rising PJM capacity costs, small businesses evaluating short-term vs. long-term deals, or property owners trying to manage risk in volatile markets, we tailor every strategy with the detail and care of a boutique advisor.

We’ve been called the “Jerry Maguire of energy deregulation” or even the “Robin Hood of energy procurement.” While those nicknames might sound colorful, they capture what we stand for: fewer clients, deeper relationships, and a relentless drive to fight for what’s right.

Community Matters

But our commitment doesn’t stop at procurement. We believe business is also about giving back. That’s why you’ll find us co-sponsoring volleyball tournaments, supporting cultural events like Garbas and Diwali, hosting tailgates, or contributing to charities close to our clients’ hearts. Our involvement goes far beyond the boardroom because our clients aren’t just accounts — they’re partners in business and community.

A Different Way Forward

So while others talk about transparency, we live it. While others focus on scale, we focus on intimacy. And while others spend on logos and booths, we invest in relationships — in business and in community.

At Ananta, we’ve been doing this for nearly two decades. The result? Long-standing client partnerships built not on slogans, but on trust.

If you’re ready for a partner who puts your business first — and proves it with every proposal — let’s talk.

Understanding ComEd Pricing Options: A Strategic Guide for Hotel Owners

merrillm@goananta.com (Merrill Mangalasseril) — Fri, 02 May 2025 10:31:56 GMT

ComEd Time-of-Day Pricing vs. Supplier Index Day-Ahead Rates:

A Hotel Owner’s Guide

As an energy procurement professional serving several hotels across Illinois for nearly 2 decades, I’m often asked about ComEd's pricing structures and how they impact hospitality operations. With the widespread implementation of smart meters, hotel owners now have unprecedented control over their electricity costs. Let's break down two significant options that could reshape your energy strategy:
1. ComEd's Time-of-Day (ToD) Pricing
2. Index-Based Day-Ahead Pricing through Suppliers

Both have pros and cons, but choosing the right plan depends on how and when your property uses power.

The Hotel Industry's Unique Energy Profile

Before diving into pricing structures, it's crucial to understand why this matters specifically for hotels. Unlike typical commercial properties, hotels experience peak energy demand during guest check-in times and evening hours, with 60-70% of electricity consumption occurring during these periods. This unique usage pattern makes your pricing strategy particularly important.

How Time-of-Day Pricing Works

ComEd’s Time-of-Day Pricing divides the day into three time blocks during the summer (June–September):

Off-Peak (10 p.m. – 6 a.m.) — 2.447¢/kWh
Peak (6 a.m. – 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. – 10 p.m.) — 3.970¢/kWh
Super Peak (2 p.m. – 7 p.m.) — 6.117¢/kWh

The pricing is fixed by time of day, giving predictability for budgeting. This is ideal if your operations can shift usage out of Super Peak hours.

How the Day-Ahead Index Works

If you choose a third-party supplier offering an Index Product, you’re buying energy based on the ComEd Day-Ahead market, where hourly prices are set a day in advance. Your supplier passes 100% of these wholesale prices through to you—without any fixed retail markup on the energy portion.

This structure may offer substantial savings—especially during overnight or off-peak hours, when wholesale prices frequently fall below 1¢/kWh, and occasionally go negative. In those rare cases, your bill reflects a credit for using electricity during those hours—because the market itself is pricing energy below zero, not because the supplier is paying you.

Why Hotels Should Pay Attention

Unlike typical households, hotels use 65–70% of their electricity in the late afternoon and evening—right when guests arrive, check in, crank up A/C or heat, turn on TVs, lighting, and plug-in devices. Many rooms stay active until late at night, and early-morning routines drive another usage spike. That means the time-based cost of electricity matters more in hospitality than in almost any other sector.

Additional Considerations for Hotels

Guest Comfort vs. Energy Cost: Index pricing allows hotels to leverage automation—for example, delaying hallway or exterior lighting until after peak, adjusting thermostats intelligently, or shifting laundry operations to low-cost hours.
Billing Simplicity: Time-of-Day is billed directly through ComEd. Index pricing usually comes from your chosen supplier, but delivery charges still appear from ComEd—making rebate eligibility 100% intact either way.
Market Trends: Recent ComEd Day-Ahead market data has shown evening hours dipping below 1¢/kWh, and in some cases turning negative. Hotels can take advantage by syncing load to those hours where practical.

Expert Insight: Recent Market Trends

Our analysis of recent ComEd Day-Ahead market data reveals increasing opportunities for savings, particularly during evening hours where rates have occasionally dropped below 1¢/kWh. This trend is especially relevant for hotels with significant overnight operations.

Taking Action
Whether you're considering Time-of-Day or Index pricing, the key is making an informed decision based on your property's specific needs. As your energy procurement partner, we can:
1. Analyze your current usage patterns
2. Model potential savings under different pricing structures
3. Recommend optimal strategies for your property
4. Implement energy-saving solutions that complement your chosen pricing structure

Final Thoughts

If your hotel has predictable, inflexible evening usage and you want simplicity, ComEd’s Time-of-Day Pricing may offer value—but be aware that you’ll pay a premium between 2–7 p.m. and again between 7–10 p.m., when guest activity peaks.

On the other hand, if you’re open to market-based pricing and have systems or behaviors in place to respond to hourly price signals, a 4-month Index Product through a supplier can offer real upside—especially in spring and summer when overnight pricing is often at its lowest.

Ready to optimize your hotel's energy strategy? Contact our team at 312.520.4220, email support@goananta.com, or visit www.goananta.com to learn more about which pricing structure best suits your property.

Merrill's Early March 2025 Market Overview

Mon, 10 Mar 2025 14:07:40 GMT

Natural Gas Market Summary – March 10, 2025

Natural Gas Market Summary – March 10, 2025

Over the weekend, natural gas (NG) futures experienced a modest rise due to cooler-than-expected weather, keeping demand steady. However, forecasts indicate warmer temperatures on the horizon, which may soften demand throughout the rest of the week.

Key Highlights:

Storage Reports : Last week’s data reflected a smaller-than-expected withdrawal from storage, signaling weaker domestic demand due to milder temperatures in some regions. As warmer weather approaches, we could see storage levels remain stable or even increase, applying downward pressure on prices.
LNG Exports : LNG exports continue to play a pivotal role, with strong global demand providing support to NG futures. However, any reduction in export volumes this week could add to price softness, particularly if domestic supply remains ample.

Outlook for the Week:

Warmer Weather : With milder temperatures expected, NG demand for heating is projected to decrease, likely leading to a bearish outlook for futures mid-to-late week.
Storage & Supply : If withdrawals from storage continue to slow, and LNG exports don’t pick up significantly, NG futures could face downward pressure.
Traders should keep a close eye on the storage reports and any fluctuations in LNG export activity, as these factors will shape market movements.

Navigating Energy Contracts in 2025 with Capacity Rate Hikes (PJM-GRID)

Wed, 05 Mar 2025 16:10:50 GMT

Navigating between Full-Requirements, Capacity Pass-Thru, and Capacity Adjustment Energy Products in 2025: What You Need to Know

As we step into 2025, many businesses are facing new challenges in managing their energy contracts, particularly with full-requirements products. At Ananta Energy Source, we’ve been listening closely to our customers and reviewing the feedback from several pricing requests earlier this year. What’s become clear is the difficulty of making true apples-to-apples comparisons with traditional full-requirements energy products.

Understanding the Impact of "Change-in-Law" Clauses

One of the key factors contributing to this complexity is the "change-in-law" clause commonly found in many full-requirements contracts. This clause allows suppliers to adjust prices when there are changes in legislation, regulations, or market conditions. For example, the upcoming capacity rate hike scheduled for June 2025 is an important change that could affect many of our customers' energy costs.

At Ananta, we’re having in-depth conversations with our supplier partners to gain clarity on how each may handle potential rate hikes. Specifically, we’re looking at suppliers' past practices—have they exercised their pass-through rights before, and if so, under what circumstances? Our goal is to anticipate which suppliers are likely to exercise this option in the future.

What This Means for Our Customers

For businesses with full-requirements deals extending beyond June 2025, it’s essential to understand how these changes might affect your rates. Here are a few key questions we’re working to clarify with our supplier partners:

Will the capacity rate hike be passed through to customers on long-term contracts, such as those running until December 2025, and beyond?
If not, what documentation can suppliers provide to confirm that rates will remain fixed?
If yes, how much of an increase should we expect, and how will it impact our clients' energy bills starting in July 2025?

Our priority is to ensure that we communicate these details clearly and accurately to our customers. Whether the answer is yes or no, having transparent documentation is critical to helping businesses plan ahead.

Exploring Different Energy Products: Pros and Cons

As we gather this information, we’re also committed to helping our clients navigate the different types of energy products available. From full-requirements contracts to capacity adjustments and capacity pass-throughs, each option has its advantages and challenges. Here are some factors we encourage our clients to consider:

Full-Requirements : Often simpler to manage, but may be subject to rate hikes if a change-in-law clause is included.
Capacity Adjustments : Some suppliers hedge capacity line items for a specific period. We recommend verifying how long these are hedged and when they’re expected to change.
Capacity Pass-Through : Offers more flexibility, but may expose customers to future cost increases.

Understanding the nuances of each product is key to making informed decisions that align with your business's energy goals.

Our Commitment to Transparency and Client-Centered Service

At Ananta Energy Source, we’ve always put our clients first. That means being transparent about our margins, leading with education, and ensuring our customers have all the information they need before committing to a new energy contract. As the market evolves, we’re seeing more of our hotel clients lean towards short-term hedges. Many are taking a more real-time, adaptive approach to managing their energy budgets—and we’re here to support them every step of the way.

With over 180+ hotel renewals in Ohio alone, our team is working hard to stay ahead of these changes and continue providing the best possible service to our clients. We’re actively gathering feedback from suppliers, refining our proposals, and offering true apples-to-apples comparisons between different energy products.

Join the Conversation

If you have questions about your full-requirements contract or want to explore the best energy solutions for your business, we’re here to help. Contact us today at info@goananta.com , and let’s work together to find the right fit for your energy needs.

PJM Capacity Rate Hike 2025

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 03:49:50 GMT

Undertanding the Impact and How Ananta Can Help

The PJM capacity market, which covers 13 states and the District of Columbia, including major markets like Illinois, Ohio, Maryland, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania, is experiencing significant rate hikes. These increases are set to take effect in 2025/2026 and will impact both utility rates and third-party supplier rates.

Understanding Capacity Costs

Capacity costs are incurred by utilities and suppliers to ensure they can meet electricity demand during peak usage periods. These costs are then passed on to consumers. The upcoming rate hikes are due to several factors, including changes in the PJM capacity auction process and increased costs for power plant operators.

Impact on Your Business

The capacity rate hikes will affect businesses in the PJM region in different ways, depending on their energy usage patterns and their current electricity contracts. Some businesses may see a significant increase in their electricity bills, while others may experience a more moderate impact.

Ananta's Proactive Approach

At Ananta, we're committed to helping our customers navigate these changes and minimize the impact on their businesses. We're developing a capacity calculator that allows you to plug in your historical usage data and see how the rate hikes will affect your specific energy costs. This information can help you make informed decisions about your energy strategy and budget for the future.

Take Our Survey

We're also conducting a survey to better understand our customers' knowledge and concerns about the capacity rate hikes. The survey is currently available to all of our Ohio customers, but we encourage all of our customers in the PJM region to participate. Your feedback will help us tailor our services and support to meet your needs. Survey Link

Conclusion

The PJM capacity rate hikes are a significant development that will impact businesses across the region. By taking a proactive approach and utilizing tools like Ananta's capacity calculator and survey, you can better understand and manage the impact on your business.

Merrill's Market Overview

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 15:53:05 GMT

Bullish Market Overview

Market Update: Energy Sector Overview

As we navigate the complexities of the energy market, several factors are contributing to both bullish and bearish sentiments. Understanding these variables is crucial for informed decision-making in this volatile environment.

Bullish Factors:

Rising Global Demand:
Economic recovery post-pandemic has accelerated industrial activities, leading to increased energy consumption across the globe. Emerging markets, particularly in Asia, are showing significant growth in energy demand, supporting higher prices.
Supply Constraints:
Geopolitical tensions, particularly in major oil-producing regions like the Middle East, and production cuts from OPEC+ are tightening supply, contributing to upward pressure on prices.
Energy Transition Investments:
The global push towards cleaner energy is driving significant investment in renewable energy projects. This transition, while positive in the long term, is creating short-term supply gaps in traditional energy sources, pushing prices higher.
Weather-Driven Demand:
Extreme weather conditions, such as prolonged heatwaves or severe winters, can spike demand for energy, particularly for cooling and heating, thereby supporting a bullish outlook.

Bearish Factors:

Economic Uncertainty:
Concerns about a potential economic slowdown, driven by high inflation and tighter monetary policies, could dampen energy demand. Reduced industrial activity might lead to an oversupply situation, putting downward pressure on prices.
Technological Advancements:
Innovations in energy efficiency and storage technologies are reducing the overall energy consumption in key sectors, potentially offsetting demand growth and exerting bearish pressure on the market.
Renewable Energy Growth:
The rapid expansion of renewable energy sources, particularly solar and wind, is increasing the share of clean energy in the global mix. This shift is gradually reducing reliance on fossil fuels, which could lead to a softening of traditional energy markets.
Government Interventions:
Policies aimed at controlling inflation and stabilizing economies, such as subsidies for renewable energy or strategic petroleum reserves releases, could temper energy prices and mitigate the bullish factors.

Market Outlook:

Given these factors, the energy market is likely to experience continued volatility in the near term. While bullish factors such as rising demand and supply constraints are pushing prices higher, the potential for an economic slowdown and the growth of renewable energy pose significant downside risks.
Energy brokers should remain vigilant, closely monitoring these variables and adjusting strategies accordingly. Hedging against price fluctuations and diversifying portfolios with a mix of traditional and renewable energy assets may be prudent approaches to managing risk in this uncertain landscape.

Maryland Price to Compare and Utility Increases 2024

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 15:06:07 GMT

Maryland Price to Compare and Utility Increases 2024

A recent report by the Baltimore Sun reveals that BGE , Pepco , and Delmarva Power (all owned by Exelon) have significantly increased delivery rates since 2010.

For electricity, BGE's rates more than doubled from 2.5¢ to 6.2¢ per kWh, Pepco's rates doubled from 2.6¢ to 6.2¢ per kWh, and Delmarva Power's rates more than doubled from 3.2¢ to 7¢ per kWh.

In terms of gas, BGE's rates tripled from 26¢ to 85¢ per therm, and Columbia Gas's rates tripled from 30¢ to $1.00 per therm. Meanwhile, Potomac Edison (electric) and Washington Gas have seen modest rate increases aligning with inflation.

State policies like STRIDE and multi-year rate plans have fueled excessive capital spending, driving up rates and profits. Action is needed to repeal or modify the STRIDE statute to curb unnecessary capital spending and strengthen state regulation to protect consumers from monopoly-driven rate hikes. High capital spending by utilities is great for investors but harms customers.

Have you been affected by recent bill increases? Shop utility rates with Ananta today to find better options and save on your energy bills.

Historical Price to Compare Electricity Rates in Ohio

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 15:40:10 GMT

Historical Price to Compare Electric Rates in Ohio

Understanding historical Price to Compare (PTC) rates in Ohio is crucial for making informed energy decisions. The price to compare rates history reveals significant insights into Ohio energy rate trends over the years. By examining past PTC rates in Ohio, one can see how Ohio utility rate comparisons have evolved, impacting electricity bills today. (Electricity deregulation has save Ohioans billions .) Tracking Ohio PTC rates analysis shows how Ohio utility rate changes have influenced Ohio electricity prices. This information is invaluable for those looking to understand yearly PTC rates in Ohio and the broader Ohio electricity cost trends.

The historical utility rates in Ohio offer a clear picture of the market, highlighting the fluctuations and stability in historical electricity rates in Ohio. This comprehensive view helps consumers make better decisions about their energy usage and financial planning.

What is an LED Shoebox Light? A Comprehensive Overview

Fri, 31 May 2024 18:18:29 GMT

Understanding What is an LED Shoebox Light?

LED shoebox lights have emerged as a popular choice for outdoor lighting, offering numerous advantages over traditional lighting solutions. These fixtures, named for their distinctive rectangular shape, are designed to provide broad and uniform illumination, making them ideal for a wide range of applications. This article delves into the intricacies of LED shoebox lights, exploring their benefits, typical applications, cost savings, and other relevant factors that contribute to their growing popularity.

LED shoebox lights are outdoor lighting fixtures characterized by their shoebox-like shape. They typically feature a flat, rectangular design with multiple LED modules arranged to ensure wide and even light distribution. These lights are mounted on poles, making them suitable for illuminating large areas such as parking lots, streets, sports complexes, and more. The use of LED technology in these fixtures brings numerous advantages, including energy efficiency, long lifespan, and superior performance.

Benefits of LED Shoebox Lights

One of the most significant advantages of LED shoebox lights is their energy efficiency. LEDs (Light Emitting Diodes) consume significantly less power compared to traditional lighting technologies such as incandescent or high-intensity discharge (HID) lamps. This reduction in energy consumption translates to lower electricity bills and a smaller carbon footprint, making LED shoebox lights an environmentally friendly choice.

Long Lifespan

LED shoebox lights boast an impressive lifespan, often exceeding 50,000 hours of use. This longevity far surpasses that of conventional lighting solutions, reducing the frequency of replacements and maintenance costs. Businesses and municipalities can benefit from the reduced operational disruptions and lower maintenance budgets associated with these durable fixtures.

Superior Light Quality

LEDs offer excellent light quality with high Color Rendering Index (CRI) values, ensuring that illuminated areas appear more natural and vibrant. This enhanced visibility is crucial for outdoor spaces, as it improves safety and security by providing clear and consistent lighting. Additionally, LED shoebox lights are available in various color temperatures, allowing for customization based on specific lighting needs.

Durability and Reliability

Designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, LED shoebox lights are constructed from robust materials that are resistant to shocks, vibrations, and extreme temperatures. This durability ensures reliable performance even in challenging outdoor settings, reducing the risk of fixture failures and associated maintenance issues.

Environmental Impact

LED technology is inherently more environmentally friendly than traditional lighting options. LEDs do not contain hazardous substances like mercury, which is commonly found in HID lamps. Moreover, their energy efficiency contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions. By opting for LED shoebox lights, businesses and municipalities can align with sustainability goals and reduce their environmental impact.

Applications of LED Shoebox Lights

Parking Lots

One of the most common applications of LED shoebox lights is in parking lots. These areas require bright, uniform lighting to ensure the safety and security of vehicles and pedestrians. LED shoebox lights provide the necessary illumination while minimizing energy costs and maintenance efforts.

Streets and Roadways

Municipalities increasingly use LED shoebox lights for street and roadway lighting. The wide distribution and high efficacy of these fixtures enhance visibility for drivers and pedestrians, contributing to safer road conditions. Additionally, the long lifespan of LEDs reduces the frequency of replacements, lowering maintenance costs for city budgets.

Sports Complexes

Outdoor sports complexes benefit from the high-intensity, uniform lighting provided by LED shoebox lights. Whether for evening games or practice sessions, these lights ensure optimal visibility for athletes and spectators. Their durability and resistance to environmental factors make them a reliable choice for such demanding applications.

Commercial and Industrial Facilities

Businesses and industrial facilities with large outdoor areas, such as warehouses, loading docks, and storage yards, also utilize LED shoebox lights. These fixtures provide the necessary illumination for operational efficiency and security, helping to prevent accidents and unauthorized access.

Cost Saving and ROI of LED Lighting

Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings

While the upfront cost of LED shoebox lights may be higher than traditional lighting solutions, the long-term savings they offer make them a cost-effective investment. The significant reduction in energy consumption leads to substantial savings on electricity bills over time. Additionally, the extended lifespan of LEDs reduces replacement and maintenance costs, further enhancing the return on investment (ROI).

Rebates and Incentives

Many utility companies and government programs offer rebates and incentives for businesses and municipalities that switch to energy-efficient lighting solutions, including LED shoebox lights. These financial incentives can offset the initial investment costs, making the transition to LED lighting even more attractive.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

The durability and long lifespan of LED shoebox lights result in fewer replacements and lower maintenance costs. Traditional lighting solutions often require frequent bulb changes and maintenance, which can be disruptive and costly. LED fixtures minimize these issues, allowing for more consistent and cost-effective lighting management.

LED Technology Advancements and Features

Smart Lighting Systems

Advancements in LED technology have led to the development of smart lighting systems that can be integrated with LED shoebox lights. These systems offer features such as remote control, dimming capabilities, motion sensors, and programmable lighting schedules. By optimizing light usage, smart systems can further enhance energy efficiency and cost savings.

Adaptive Lighting

Adaptive lighting technology allows LED shoebox lights to adjust their brightness based on ambient conditions and occupancy. This dynamic approach ensures that lighting levels are appropriate for the current situation, improving energy efficiency and extending the lifespan of the fixtures.

Solar-Powered Options

Solar-powered LED shoebox lights combine the benefits of LED technology with renewable energy. These fixtures are equipped with solar panels that harness sunlight during the day to power the lights at night. Solar-powered options are ideal for remote locations or areas with limited access to the electrical grid, providing sustainable and cost-effective lighting solutions.

Installation and Maintenance of LED Lighting

Easy Installation

LED shoebox lights are designed for easy installation, often featuring universal mounting brackets that can be adapted to various pole sizes and configurations. This flexibility simplifies the installation process, reducing labor costs and downtime.

Minimal Maintenance Requirements

Once installed, LED shoebox lights require minimal maintenance. Their robust construction and long lifespan mean that routine maintenance tasks, such as cleaning and occasional inspections, are infrequent and straightforward. This ease of maintenance contributes to the overall cost savings associated with these fixtures.

Final Thoughts:

LED shoebox lights represent a modern, efficient, and versatile solution for outdoor lighting needs. Their numerous benefits, including energy efficiency, long lifespan, superior light quality, and environmental friendliness, make them an attractive option for a wide range of applications. From parking lots and streets to sports complexes and commercial facilities, LED shoebox lights provide reliable and cost-effective illumination. As technology continues to advance, features like smart lighting systems and solar power options will further enhance their appeal. Businesses and municipalities looking to upgrade their outdoor lighting should consider the long-term advantages and potential savings offered by LED shoebox lights, making them a smart investment for the future.

Electricity Market Demand Update - Summer 2024

Wed, 29 May 2024 17:17:53 GMT

2024 Electricity Market Demand for Summertime

U.S. electric demand is expected to increase 2.7% this summer to 1,487 TWh compared to last summer, driven by warmer weather, economic growth, and data center expansions, according to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission’s annual summer energy market and reliability report, released Thursday.

According to the report by FERC staff, U.S. data center load is projected to increase to nearly 21 GW this year, up from 19 GW in 2023. Electric demand from these facilities across the U.S. is anticipated to reach 35 GW by the end of this decade.

Despite increased power demand, wholesale electricity prices this summer are expected to be about the same or lower than a year ago, outside of New England, according to the assessment.

In most areas, natural gas prices — a key factor affecting power prices — are expected to be lower this summer compared to last summer, reflecting a shift to a well-supplied market away from a tight supply-demand balance two years ago, FERC staff said.

The Henry Hub futures contract price for this summer averaged $2.25/MMBtu, down 9% from last summer’s settled price, according to the report. Natural gas storage inventories at the start of the injection season are 23% higher than last summer’s levels and 40% above five-year average levels.

On the power supply front, total net U.S. summer capacity is expected to grow 3.4% to 1,207 GW from 1,167 GW last summer, according to the report.

By the end of the summer, U.S. battery storage capacity is expected to grow by 12.2 GW from a year ago, adding to a 5.4-GW gain last summer, FERC staff said. Staff noted 5,100 MW is expected to come online in the California Independent System Operator footprint and 4,500 GW in the Electric Reliability Council of Texas market.

Electricity Markets and Risk Reduction

Fri, 24 May 2024 18:20:32 GMT

Electricity Costs and the Commercial Supply Chain Strategies

Electricity and natural gas costs significantly impact profitability across all industries, especially within the supply chain. According to a recent banking industry study, energy expenditures average 4.1% of total manufacturing industry revenues, ranging from 0.8% to 12% depending on the business type. Consequently, when seeking substantial cost savings for corporate clients, energy expenditures are a primary focus.

Energy procurement is complex due to varying governmental regulations across regions. In regulated markets with limited provider options, innovative strategies can still optimize the volume, timing, and types of energy consumed, yielding measurable results despite being restricted to a specific supplier.

In deregulated regions, companies can benefit from competitive energy markets for electricity and natural gas. Electricity often represents a larger expense than natural gas, though natural gas can also be significant, particularly in manufacturing processes. By leveraging competition, clients can save between 10% and 25% on their total energy expenses. In North America, most of the United States and significant parts of Canada are deregulated, offering multiple energy provider choices. Globally, energy market deregulation exists in Great Britain, Western Europe, Australia, India, and parts of South America.

3 strategies we use to protect your business from rate increases.

We dive into three ways we help businesses reduce expenditures in today’s complicated energy marketplace. They are as follows.

Creating formal energy procurement strategies.
Understanding and following your current wholesale energy market(s).
Track & Monitoring - Reporting on markets.

Developing Your Energy Procurement Strategy

We take the complexity out of energy procurement by crafting a tailored strategy for your entire organization. For regions with deregulated energy markets, we focus on securing third-party energy supplies. In regulated areas, we work to minimize energy usage and ensure your accounts are on the most cost-effective tariffs and rate classes.

Here’s how we do it:

Comprehensive Analysis: We start by summarizing your energy exposure at each facility, including all hedged and unhedged contractual positions.
Current Assessment: Our team conducts a detailed evaluation of your current energy procurement practices, including energy types used, sources, contractual commitments, usage volumes, and patterns.
Risk and Goals Alignment: We assess your organization’s risk tolerance and flexibility, procurement objectives (e.g., budget certainty, diversification, lowest cost), and sustainability targets.
Strategic Recommendations: We determine the best market pathways for energy bidding and contracting based on our findings.
Contract Management: We keep track of all contract expirations and ensure timely renewals or renegotiations.

With Ananta, you have a dedicated partner managing your energy procurement needs, allowing you to focus on your core business while we ensure optimal energy strategies and savings.

Navigating the Wholesale Energy Market for You

We navigate the complexities of the wholesale energy market on your behalf. In deregulated markets, natural gas and electricity are traded at the wholesale level, where prices fluctuate multiple times a day due to various factors such as weather, geopolitical events, and maintenance activities. Here's how we manage this for you:

Market Monitoring: We continuously track the wholesale prices of all forms of energy, ensuring we are aware of the fluctuations and trends in the market.
Strategic Timing: Our team identifies optimal times to enter the market, leveraging market intelligence to understand price movements and secure energy contracts at the best possible rates.
Bid Management: We handle the entire bidding process, selecting the best energy providers and timing bids to maximize cost savings for your organization.
Risk Mitigation: By understanding the factors driving market prices, we help mitigate risks associated with energy procurement and ensure you are not overpaying for your energy needs.

With Ananta Energy Source, you can trust that we are managing the intricacies of the wholesale energy market for you, allowing you to focus on your core business while we secure the most favorable energy contracts. We have resources to accurately review forecasts or to confidently predict when a particular market will change.

Tracking and Monitoring Your Energy Accounts

We take a proactive approach to energy procurement by continuously monitoring energy markets, analyzing data, and adjusting strategies to ensure optimal outcomes for our clients. Here's how we manage this process for you:

Constant Market Surveillance: We keep a close eye on energy markets, tracking fluctuations and trends in real-time. This allows us to stay ahead of market movements and identify opportunities for cost savings.
Data Analysis: Our team diligently reviews detailed data on your energy utilization and costs. By understanding your consumption patterns and expenses, we can tailor our strategies to your specific needs.
Strategic Adjustments: We adapt our procurement strategies based on market conditions. Anticipating changes in the cost of natural gas or electricity enables us to seize opportunities to re-contract at preferential pricing.
Opportunity Seizing: We actively look for market opportunities to secure better rates when contracts are due for renewals. Failure to act promptly on these opportunities means missing out on potential savings.
Reporting and Communication: We provide regular reports and updates on market conditions and procurement strategies, keeping you informed about how we are managing your energy needs and the resulting savings.

Southern Ohio United Association Volleyball Tournament 2024

Fri, 19 Apr 2024 18:31:27 GMT

Attending the Southern Ohio United Association Volleyball Tournament 2024

We're excited to announce that we'll be attending the Southern Ohio United Associations (SOUA) Volleyball Tournament as sponsors! This vibrant event brings together a diverse community of individuals from Gujarat, India, who have immigrated to the U.S. in pursuit of opportunities in business and education for their families.

With over 48 teams already registered, the tournament promises to be a thrilling display of talent and camaraderie. As part of our commitment to supporting community initiatives and promoting holistic well-being, we're proud to sponsor an event that not only fosters physical health through sports but also promotes positive mental health and social skills among adults and children.

At Ananta Energy Source , we believe in the power of community and the importance of coming together to celebrate diversity and shared passions. We're honored to be part of such a meaningful event and look forward to connecting with participants, supporters, and fellow sponsors.

Stay tuned for updates from the tournament, and don't forget to cheer on your favorite teams!

The Carbon-Free Energy Resource Adjustment from ComEd Explained

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 15:50:50 GMT

What is the Carbon-Free Energy Resource Adjustment on my ComEd Bill? (UPDATED MARCH 2024)

The Carbon-Free Energy Resource Adjustment (CFRA) is a line item on ComEd customer bills that reflects the cost of carbon-free energy sources, such as solar and wind power. The CFRA is intended to help Illinois move toward its goal of 100% clean energy by 2050.

However, some customers who have received a credit from ComEd in the past are now seeing charges on their bill? This could be due to the recent change in the Carbon-Free Energy Resource Adjustment (CFRA).

The "Illinois' Climate and Equitable Jobs Act of 2021 included provisions to sustain carbon-free nuclear plants during periods of low energy prices. When energy market prices are high, plant owners are required to compensate utility customers.

Customers received credits during the summer of 2022 as follows:

•4.306 cents per kilowatt hour (¢/kWh) from June through September

•4.115 ¢/kWh in October and November 2022

•2.384 ¢/kWh from December 2022 through February 2023

•0.033 ¢/kWh from March through May 2023

ComEd customer bills will now have a line for “Carbon-Free Energy Resource Adjustment”, which can be a credit or a charge depending on energy prices. The CFRA is effective through 2027.

The CFRA rate transitioned to a charge of 1.241 ¢/kWh beginning in June through September 2023, reflecting reduced energy prices.

Why Am I Seeing A Charge vs. A Credit Now?

Due to current energy prices today, ComEd is now required by law to reconcile the amount they paid in credits to customers with the amount they received from nuclear plants. ComEd provided $2.4 billion of bill credits during a period but received only $1.3 billion from nuclear plants, resulting in financial losses. The interest and reconciliation process were reviewed and approved by the Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC).

Since October 2023, the CFRA has been updated monthly to align with payments to or from nuclear plants.

For more information, visit ComEd’s hourly pricing website, providing real-time pricing, day-ahead pricing, and other public information to help customers understand real-time pricing.

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(Previous article)

Back in June 2022, customers in the ComEd market in Illinois began to see a line item called the "Carbon-Free Energy Resource Adjustment" (CFRA) on their monthly utility distribution invoices. The CFRA comes with an associated usage-based credit or charge, which will vary by season and can be quite significant.

From June to September of 2022, the CFRA credit will be $43.06 per megawatt hour, while from October 2022 through May 2023 it will be $35.73 per megawatt hour. The high value of the CFRA is due to the Illinois Power Authority (IPA) conducting an auction for Carbon Mitigation Credits (CMC) that resulted in a weighted average price for PY 22/23 that was far above the auction price of $30 per megawatt hour. This has resulted in a negative value for ComEd that it must credit back to customers. Customers can either receive a refund by contacting ComEd or allow the credit to roll over for future use. The CFRA is intended to help Illinois move toward its goal of 100% clean energy by 2050, as outlined in legislation signed by Governor Pritzker last September. The Clean Energy Job Act is also expected to help increase the use of renewable energy in Illinois by making solar energy more cost-effective and practical through funding mechanisms.

Why Is My Carbon Free Energy Resource Adjustment Credit Lower than Previous Years?

The CFRA is based on the cost of carbon-free energy sources, which have been rising in recent months due to a number of factors, including the war in Ukraine and the rising cost of natural gas. As a result, the CFRA has also been rising, and customers are not seeing as much money back on their bills.

However, it is important to note that the CFRA is still a credit, and customers are still receiving money back from ComEd. The amount of money that customers receive will vary depending on their usage, but it is still a significant amount of money that can help to offset the rising cost of electricity.

In addition, the CFRA is only one part of the equation when it comes to the cost of electricity. The other major factor is the cost of the transmission and distribution of electricity, which is also regulated by ComEd. The cost of transmission and distribution has been rising in recent years, and this is another reason why customers are seeing higher electricity bills.

Call us now if you have any questions about your credit or our energy procurement services .

SLPS GAAM Volleyball Tournament & Expo 2024

Tue, 02 Jan 2024 19:55:29 GMT

SLPS GAAM Volleyball Tournament & Expo 2024

We are super excited to be heading back to Dallas for the 2024 SLPS GAAM Volleyball Tournament and Expo at the Main Hall in Dallas Market Hall .

This is not just any ordinary tournament. Teams from all over the USA represent their Gaam (village) in India. With A 216 team capacity (up from 168 teams) and over 5000 attendees, this is going to be a day to remember!

The SLPS functions as a non-profit organization with a focus on religion, culture, and non-political activities. Its primary purpose is to serve as a platform for gatherings, promote religious practices, foster the exchange of ideas, organize cultural programs, and work towards the progress of the community .

SLPS Volleyball 2024 Schedule

March 1, 2024 (Friday)

-Expo Registration: 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM (Reg. desk located by Dock 5 @ Dallas Market Hall)
-Welcome Dinner: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
-Expo Time: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM

March 2, 2024 (Saturday)

-Expo Registration: 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM (if needed)
-Tournament: 8:00 AM onwards
-Expo Time: 8 AM - 5 PM

Breakfast available all day (from 7:00 AM)
Lunch: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Mid-day Snack: 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Happy Hour: 4:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Break at around 4:45 PM for Qualifying Vendor's Speech
Dinner: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Volleyball tournament finals will be around 8:00 PM

We look forward to seeing everyone there!!

So... "What's It Like?"

The Official 2024 SLPS Gaam Volleyball Rules

The number of teams will be limited to 216 (we may increase it at a later date). All teams will be asked to report to the venue at 7:45 a.m. on Saturday, March 2, 2024. Teams not present at the start of their games as per schedule will be given a loss for the game they are to play (It will be a 5-0 loss).

There are 216 teams divided in 36 brackets. Each team will play 5 games before playoffs.
All players in a team representing their gaam , have to be from the gaam . Jamais and Bhaniyas of a gaam are not from the gaam . Violating teams may be disqualified.
Punctuality is key. We plan to play without breaks between games. If sufficient team members (minimum 5) are not present to play within 2 minutes of their assigned time, it is implied that they forfeit their game. The score will be 5-0 in favor of the team present. In the event that both the teams are not present, the result will be recorded as a loss for both teams with 0-0 score.
All games (with the possible exception of finals) will be 9 points or 9 minutes whichever comes first. If the score is tied at the end of regulation, the game shall be completed by a sudden death playoff. The sudden death playoff will consist of a coin toss to determine which team will serve. Regardless of which team wins the serve, the team that wins the point will receive the win. If a point matters to determine a winner or tie a game at the 9 minutes mark, the point gets played out beyond 9 minutes.
If time permits, finals will be best of 3 games and each game will be 11 points or 11 minutes whichever comes first.
After each team has played 5 games, up to 96 (or 64) teams will advance to playoffs. Playoffs will be in knock-out format. Play-off teams will be selected according to:
Win-loss record
Point difference (net difference)
Total points scored
Total points allowed
Via “coin toss” if teams end up in tie
Via “number drawing” if three or more teams tie
During the game each team will be allowed 2 time-outs of 30 seconds.
After serving, no switching, either front or back, will be allowed.
Timeout should be used to substitute. Substitution of players is permitted only during time-outs. Only players listed on the team's roster are permitted to play.
A player may only serve after the head referee has blown the whistle. The service has to be clearly tossed or it will be considered a foul and side-out will be awarded.
Fingering, attacking or spiking is only permitted on the first hit. Fingering, attacking or spiking is NOT permitted on the second or third hit.
Unless 1st hit touches the net or opponents ball clips net upon coming over, no 2nd or 3rd ball hitting will be permitted. If this does not occur, it will be considered a foul.
Crossing completely over the centerline is a foul; merely stepping on the center line is not.
If at any time the ball lands on the boundary line the ball is considered in.
Only the captain from the team may question a call. The head referee's decision is final. Players other than captain questioning calls may be given a warning or may be penalized at the discretion of the Tournament Committee and/or game's referee; penalty may include a point loss or loss of service.
A technical foul may be assessed by a referee, if in his opinion; a player conducts himself in an unsportsmanlike manner. Upon such assessment, the referee shall award a point to the opposing team plus a loss of service to the guilty team if it had the service at the time of the foul. Repeated or willful violations of the rules may result in a loss of game, or a player’s or his team’s disqualification at the discretion of the Tournament Committee and/or referee.
At the conclusion of each game both captains must sign the score form. It is the referee’s responsibility to return the score form to the main scoring booth immediately.
If the ball hits any fixed obstacles during play, it will be ruled as a side out for the other team.
Only the extra players from the playing teams will be allowed on court-side.
No practice between games is permitted.
NO FOOD OR DRINKS INSIDE THE PLAYING AREA IS PERMITTED.
NO CHEWING SUBSTANCES (MANIKCHAND, PAN PARAG, OR ANY TOBACCO PRODUCTS) WILL BE ALLOWED ON THE PREMISES.
The game shall adhere to the rules as interpreted by the tournament committee, and at its sole discretion, may add, delete, or modify any rule(s) if it is in the best interest of all teams.

Donate to the SLPS Volleyball Tournament

Can't make it to the tournament or want to contribute more? Donate here: https://slpsdfw.wildapricot.org/Donate

Visit our table to schedule your complimentary energy audit or contact us now to learn more.

Electricity Deregulation in Lubbock, TX | Choose Your Energy Rate

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 16:06:55 GMT

Electricity deregulation is coming to Lubbock, Texas, which means you have the power to choose your retail energy supplier. Here's what you need to know before you make the switch!

(UPDATED DECEMBER 18 2023)

The Retail Integration Task Force for Lubbock Power & Light (LP&L) presented a new and improved timeline that proposes a "market go-live period" for retail electric choice from March 4, 2024, through April 2, 2024.

Under this timeline revision the initial customer choice selection period would run from January 5, 2024, to February 15, 2024.

Also, under this revision, electricity customers that do not make a retail electricity choice during this period would be assigned to a default service provider during the period February 19, 2024, through March 1, 2024.

The actual migration to retail choice for LP&L customers would occur with on-cycle meter readings from March 4, 2024, through April 2, 2024.

******************

The city of Lubbock, Texas has been gearing up for electricity deregulation since last year, but it seems they'll need to exercise some patience. In February 2022, the city council made an unanimous decision to transition the city of approximately 261,000 residents into a competitive energy market, granting them the choice to select from a range of approved energy retailers.

The initial schedule aimed at allowing residents to choose their energy provider in August, with the official transition occurring in October. However, these plans encountered an unexpected obstacle. In April, a consortium of energy cooperatives from Texas and New Mexico raised concerns about the $77.5 million settlement that LP&L had agreed to pay for its exit from the Southwest Power Pool's electrical grid. They contended that this agreement did not offer adequate protection against potential financial repercussions.

The Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, responsible for approving the plan, requested an extension to conduct a more thorough review of LP&L's application. Consequently, the ultimate transfer of customers to ERCOT has experienced delays. Although there isn't a fixed deadline, records presented during an Electricity Utility Board meeting in May indicated that the selection period is now anticipated to commence in the first quarter of the following year, possibly as early as January 2024.

According to the original timetable, customers would then begin receiving services from their new providers by March.

Is Lubbock, TX electricity deregulated?

Yes, the city of Lubbock, TX has officially voted to be deregulated.

Why did Lubbock, TX switch to ERCOT?

In order to give electric customers in Lubbock, TX more control over their electricity consumption, the city began exploring the move into ERCOT, and out of the Southwest Power Pool, in 2015.

Until May 2021, the city of Lubbock was part of the Southwest Power Pool (SPP) electric grid. The SPP operates as a grid providing electricity to Midwestern states like Kansas, Nebraska, the Dakotas, and a small portion of Texas. Lubbock Power & Light (LP&L) played a central role in supplying electricity to the city by distributing power from the SPP.

Owing to contractual obligations with the SPP, Lubbock faced the necessity of constructing a new power plant for energy generation. The estimated cost of this undertaking was several hundred million dollars, if not more. Additionally, the project would lead to an increase in electricity prices in Lubbock for several decades to recover the expenses associated with constructing the power plant.

In addition to the construction of the new power plant, the Lubbock City Council had an alternative option: deregulation. By transitioning to the ERCOT grid, Lubbock could join the extensive group of deregulated cities in Texas.

In a press release from the City of Lubbock:

"Today, Lubbock City Council voted in favor of transitioning Lubbock Power & Light (LP&L) to the competitive electric market in Texas. The City Council vote was the last step required for LP&L to begin necessary work to move to retail competition following the Electric Utility Board’s vote last week. LP&L hopes to transition to competitive retail electric service in late 2023 pending state regulatory approval to move all remaining customers into the ERCOT market.

Under the future competition model, LP&L will no longer serve as the city-owned electricity provider. Instead, customers can “shop” from multiple retail electric providers, each offering their own plans, pricing and contract terms. The retail providers will be responsible for buying and selling power, while LP&L will continue to own and maintain all transmission and distribution infrastructure, such as poles and lines.

After years of careful preparation and planning, we can turn to citizens and officially say–we heard you loud and clear, and electric competition is on the way.” said Mayor Dan Pope. “All of the work up to this point and going forward not only gives customers control over their energy choices, it ensures a diverse electricity supply well into the future as our city and energy needs continue to grow. I could not be more proud to be a part of this historic decision.”

Will the competitive electricity market in Lubbock affect other utilities?

No, only electric service through LP&L will be affected by the transition to retail electric competition. Furthermore, the deregulation of electricity in Lubbock will not have any bearing on the services provided by City of Lubbock Utilities. These utilities will persist in offering essential services such as water, stormwater management, wastewater treatment, and solid waste management to the community.

What will my electricity bill look like?

Approved Retail Electric Providers in Lubbock, TX

4Change Energy

Abundance Energy

Alliance Power Company

Calpine Energy Solutions LLC

Champion Energy Services LLC

Chariot Energy

Cirro Energy

CleanSky Energy

Constellation New Energy

Green Mountain Energy

Southern Federal Power

How Ananta Energy Can Help You Save Money On Your Lubbock Electric Bills

If you've been a long-time business owner in Lubbock, chances are you haven't had to think much about choosing the best electricity plan or understanding terms like 'kilowatt hour' or 'fixed-rates.' In the past, you simply paid the rate offered by Lubbock Power & Light. However, with the current competitive market, you now have the opportunity to choose your energy provider.

That's where we come in. With our industry expertise, we've built relationships with the most reputable energy providers in Texas. Contact us now to learn how we can save you money on your business electricity bills.

FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Price to Compare Rates Rising 10% in December 2023

Wed, 18 Oct 2023 16:51:18 GMT

FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Price to Compare Rate Increases December 2023 - Electricity Rate Changes

The FirstEnergy Pennsylvania utilities have submitted fresh tariffed price-to-compare rates for residential and commercial customers, designated under Rider H, to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) for the six-month term starting on December 1st, 2023. But don't worry, Pennsylvania is deregulated and customers have a choice when it comes to who their electricity supplier is.

First Energy Pennsylvania Residential Price to Compare Rate Increases 2023

At Met-Ed , the tariffed residential PTC Default rate will be $0.11306 per kWh, a 10% increase versus the current $0.10240 per kWh.

At Penelec , the tariffed residential PTC Default rate will be $0.10607 per kWh, a 9% increase versus the $0.09703 per kWh.

At Penn Power , the tariffed residential PTC Default rate will be $0.11231 per kWh a 6% increase versus the current $0.10556 per kWh.

At West Penn Power , the tariffed residential PTC Default rate will be $0.10001 per kWh an increase versus the current $0.09929 per per kWh.

First Energy Pennsylvania Commercial Price to Compare Rate Increases 2023

At Met-Ed , the tariffed commercial PTC Default rate will be $0.11872 per kWh, an 11% increase versus the current $0.10679 per kWh.

At Penelec , the tariffed commercial PTC Default rate will be $0.11603 per kWh, a 5% increase versus the $0.11037 per kWh.

At Penn Power, the tariffed commercial PTC Default rate will be $0.13109 per kWh effective December 1, 2023, versus the current $0.12890 per kWh

At West Penn Power , the tariffed commercial PTC Default rate will be $0.11023 per kWh effective December 1, 2023, versus the current $0.10959 per kWh

All of the new PTC Default rates described above are to be in effect for the six-month period December 1, 2023 through May 31, 2024

If you are a Pennsylvania business that has been affected by the PA electricity price to compare increases, contact us today to avoid further rate increases.

Learn how it works !

Currently we do not service residential electricity customers.

Energy Monopoly States vs. Energy Choice States

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 15:22:10 GMT

Customers In Monopoly States See Prices Rise 40%; Electric Rates In Choice States Rose Only 10%

The Retail Energy Supply Association (RESA) has released its 2022 data report, using the latest information from the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).

Here's the key takeaway: Since 2008, the average electricity prices for customers in places where they have choices (competitive states/jurisdictions) have gone up by about 10.6%. But in areas where there's only one utility company (monopoly states), prices have shot up much more, by about 40.3%. This means people in monopoly states could have saved more than $628 billion if their prices had risen like those in places with competition since 2008.

Breaking it down by customer type, these potential savings in monopoly states would have been approximately $212.9 billion for regular households, $260.4 billion for businesses, and $155.0 billion for industries. Meanwhile, in the 14 competitive states/jurisdictions, they managed to save about $430 billion during this time compared to the monopoly states. These numbers emphasize how much competitive power markets can save people on their electricity bills.

In 2022, over 13.2 million households in competitive states got their electricity from competitive retail suppliers, which is about 45.0% of the households in those states that can choose their electricity provider.

Tracy McCormick, the executive director of RESA, noted, "The data makes it clear: when people have options, they make smart choices, recognizing the benefits of competitive markets." RESA's president, Gretchen Fuhr, added, "This data strongly emphasizes the importance of giving consumers the freedom to choose their electricity providers. It's not just about saving money; it's also about encouraging innovation and sustainable energy solutions in the industry."

Community Electric Aggregation Programs in Ohio | Protect Your Business

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 15:17:04 GMT

Business risk higher energy rates as Ohio's community electric aggregation programs go into effect.

We have recently become aware of a situation affecting some of our valued electricity customers in Ohio. It appears that due to a state law that may not have been widely noticed by both commercial and residential Ohio electricity customers, there have been instances of automatic switches away from their current electricity suppliers. We are committed to addressing this matter diligently and ensuring that our Ananta customers are well-informed and supported in navigating any changes that may arise from such state-authorized actions.

To be fair, community aggregations for electricity and natural gas happen frequently in deregulated energy markets across the country, and they’re typically designed to save the consumer money on their energy bills. In response to all of the rate hikes in the deregulated electricity utilities in Ohio (ie: American Electric Power [AEP], Duke Energy, AES Ohio, and the FirstEnergy Solutions Utilities [Ohio Edison, Toledo Edison, and The Illuminating Company]), state representatives passed a law allowing for community aggregations to automatically take place to help commercial and residential customers avoid these rate hikes.

However, to put things into perspective, a significant number of our customers with existing contracts and rates ranging from four to five cents are experiencing an automatic transition to rates of six to seven cents. Failing to opt out of these programs and reinstate our original agreements could limit your options considerably. Timely action in opting out of these energy contracts is crucial to mitigate potential complications.

What is a community aggregation program?

A Community Electric Aggregation Program is a localized initiative in which a community, such as a town or city, comes together to collectively negotiate and secure electricity supply arrangements on behalf of its residents and businesses. This program enables the community to leverage its collective buying power to potentially access more favorable rates, cleaner energy sources, or specific terms from electricity suppliers . By pooling their resources, community members aim to gain benefits like cost savings, renewable energy adoption, or customized contractual terms that align with their shared preferences.

How can I avoid any potential rate increases?

To begin addressing this matter, it's important to note that your business may have received mail about a Community Electric Aggregation Program in Ohio , affecting businesses all over the state. These letters have been sent to you by your utility provider or other entities regarding your specific city, or your municipality. Your chamber may have notified you as well. Under this program, the state has granted authorization from the above entities to automatically enroll your electricity account into an energy contract. To avoid being automatically enrolled into a community aggregation you must opt-out.

Can I opt out of a Community Aggregation Program if I'm not interested?

As a business owner, it's crucial to promptly opt out of this program as per the law. Acting early within the notification window allows us to easily decline any community or city aggregation deals that may be in motion. Even if we miss this initial window, opting out is still possible without penalty. However, opting out later may complicate our previous agreements.

To streamline the process, kindly review your invoices and promptly forward them to either myself or our operations team. This will facilitate the verification of your current rate, enabling us to swiftly reinstate your previous agreement. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Feel free to consult our detailed blog outlining the specific Nopec Ohio Electric Aggregation processes taking place in northeast Ohio. In addition, I've initiated a formal complaint with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO.) Following our discussion, it became apparent that their jurisdiction is limited due to this being Ohio state law, which is overseen at the legislative level.

If you’re an Ohio business owner and want to learn more about how to opt-out of your community aggregation deals, and how you can reduce your community aggregation rate even further by 12% - 25%, please contact us at info@goananta.com , and one of our energy procurement professionals will contact you with the next best steps.

Ananta Energy Source is a transparent energy procurement company that provides unbiased open-book pricing from A - Z. We run a tried and true RFP with multiple energy suppliers in Ohio (ie: Direct Energy, AEP Energy, Constellation Energy, Hudson Energy, Champion Energy, APG&E, Nordic Energy, IGS Energy, Dynegy, and CPV Retail), and we assist all of our commercial customers in navigating the wholesale electricity market by finding them the lowest electricity prices.

How do Ohio electric consumers register on the do not aggregate list?

Consumers have two options for enrollment for the do not aggregate list:

Fill out and send the Electric Do Not Aggregate Form .
Dial the PUCO toll-free number at (800) 686-PUCO (7826). Consumers will need to furnish their name, service address, and the customer account or identification number indicated on their utility bill.

Upon successful inclusion in the do not aggregate list, consumer names and service addresses will be visible on the PUCO website. Customer account and identification numbers will remain private.

To search for your business to see if you are on the do not aggregate list visit https://community.puco.ohio.gov/p/s/electric-do-not-aggregate-search.

Are there any risks or downsides to joining a Community Aggregation Program?

There can be potential risks or downsides to joining a Community Aggregation Program, and it's important to consider these factors before participating. Some of the potential risks and downsides include:

Limited Provider Choices : While community aggregation can offer competitive rates, it might limit your ability to choose from a wider range of electricity providers. This could potentially restrict your options if you have specific preferences or requirements.
Contract Terms : The terms of the aggregation contract might not align with your long-term plans. Agreements could include fixed rates that may not reflect future market changes, potentially leading to missed opportunities for savings.
Exit Fees or Penalties : Some community aggregation programs might have exit fees or penalties if you decide to opt out before the contract term ends. These fees could offset any potential savings if you need to leave the program early.
Changes in Service Quality : Depending on the chosen supplier, there might be variations in customer service quality, billing procedures, and other service-related aspects. You could experience issues that are different from what you might have encountered with your previous provider.
Market Fluctuations : While community aggregation programs aim to provide stable rates, energy markets can still fluctuate. If the market rates drop significantly after you've signed up, you might miss out on potential savings.
Renewable Energy Commitment : While many aggregation programs prioritize renewable energy sources, there could be instances where the level of renewable energy provided doesn't meet your expectations or align with your personal sustainability goals.
Loss of Individual Control : Joining an aggregation program means surrendering some control over your energy purchasing decisions to the community or local government. This might not align with your desire for individual choice and flexibility.
Notification and Information : Aggregation program details and changes might not always be communicated clearly or in a timely manner. This could lead to confusion or surprises regarding your energy bill or the program's operation.
Economic Viability : The long-term economic viability of the chosen energy supplier could impact the program's stability. If the supplier faces financial challenges, it might affect the quality of service or lead to changes in pricing.
Program Cancellation : There's a possibility that the community aggregation program could be canceled or discontinued, which might require you to find an alternative energy provider.

Historical Price to Compare Electricity Rates in Ohio

Below are historical Price To Compare (PTC) charts the Public Utility Commission of Ohio (PUCO) publishes and updates every month:

Image Sources:

AEP Ohio - Source: https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/historical-ptc-chart-aep
AES Ohio - Source: https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/historical-ptc-chart-aes-ohio
Duke Ohio - Source: https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/historical-ptc-chart-duke-electricity
Ohio Edison - Source: https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/historical-ptc-chart-ohio-edison
Toledo Edison - Source: https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/historical-ptc-chart-toledo-edison
The Illuminating Co - Source: https://puco.ohio.gov/utilities/electricity/resources/historical-ptc-chart-illuminating-compan y

Electrify America's New EV Charging Prices and Idle Fees | 2023

Mon, 24 Jul 2023 16:36:43 GMT

Electrify America Pricing and Idle Charging Fees | 2023 Updates

Electrify America recently sent out a crucial email update to its customers, revealing significant billing changes set to take effect on August 17th this year.

Regardless of whether you are an occasional user or a regular customer, it's vital to comprehend the impact of these imminent changes if you're using the Electrify America network.

Here are the three main pricing adjustments:

The monthly fee for Pass+ subscribers will rise from $4.00 to $7.00, resulting in an additional $36 per year (making it $84 per year compared to the previous $48/year). Despite the increase, Pass+ members will still enjoy a 25% discount on the per-kWh or per-minute pricing, depending on the state they are charging in.
Electrify America will transition from uniform pricing across the country to a station-specific pricing model, which is subject to change. To avoid confusion, the Electrify America app will display the station-specific prices. However, users are urged to check the station directly upon arrival, as the app's listed price might be inaccurate.
Idle fees will be introduced at most Electrify America locations nationwide. After a ten-minute grace period, customers will be billed $0.40 per minute until they unplug their vehicles from the charger.

The increase in Pass+ subscription fees might not deter regular users from continuing with the subscription. However, occasional users who previously paid a $48 annual fee to enjoy the 25% discount may reconsider. Generally, if you use the network at least once a month, the savings from the 25% discount should cover the new monthly fee.

The shift to dynamic, station-specific pricing is perhaps the most significant change. Electrify America will now customize pricing for each station based on the network's expenses in that area, including a margin for profit. This approach aligns with the varying cost of electricity across the country, making it more logical and fair to users.

One positive change is the implementation of idle fees. To prevent abuse of charging spots, once an EV finishes charging, owners must promptly unplug their vehicles to free up the charger for others. Electrify America will now charge customers $0.40 per minute for idle vehicle time after the ten-minute grace period expires. This move is aimed at curbing misuse and ensuring fair access for all users.

Tesla has also adopted site-specific charging and idle fees, reflecting the growing trend in the industry. For instance, Tesla charges $0.50 per minute for idling, which doubles to $1.00 per minute during peak usage times.

In conclusion, Electrify America's billing changes are essential to adapt to the diverse energy costs across regions, improve fairness, and encourage responsible charging behavior. As an EV user, staying informed about these changes will help you make cost-effective decisions and support the sustainable growth of the EV charging infrastructure.

Duquesne Light Rate Increase 2023 - Choose Your Supplier

Tue, 16 May 2023 17:44:34 GMT

Duquesne Light Cost-to-Compare Rate Increase 2023

Duquesne Light has submitted an update to the Pennsylvania PUC regarding its bypassable Transmission Service Charges.

This, along with previously filed new Default Service Supply Rates, allows for the calculation of the price to compare starting from June 1.

For general service customers (GS), the combination of the new Default Service Supply Rate and the new Transmission Service Charge results in a price to compare of 11.0282 cents per kWh effective June 1. This is approximately 9% higher than the current PTC of 10.16 cents per kWh, which is rounded to two decimal places.

For residential customers (RS), the combination of the new Default Service Supply Rate and the new Transmission Service Charge results in a price to compare of 11.4470 cents per kWh effective June 1. This is slightly higher than the current PTC of 11.25 cents per kWh.

These new PTCs for GS and RS customers will be in effect from June 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023. The official prices to compare for the period starting June 1, 2023, have not been published yet, so be sure to act fast.

Note: The Transmission Service Charges for most other commercial and industrial classes include demand charges in addition to a per kWh rate.

If you haven’t shopped for new electricity rates in Pennsylvania yet, and want transparent open-book pricing on the wholesale electricity market, please contact us and learn how we can help you take steps to prevent your business from Duquesne Light's scheduled rate hike.

Free Level 2 EV Charging For Hotel Owners

Wed, 10 May 2023 16:01:36 GMT

Ananta to Install 100 Free Level 2 EV Chargers

Ananta’s EV Background:

Over the past 11 months, Ananta Energy Source has conducted an extensive analysis of electric vehicle (EV) charging units and EV charging infrastructure to meet the demands of our hotel and restaurant clientele. The surging demand for EV charging hardware and services, combined with the recent introduction of the Inflation Reduction Act, has spurred our focus on delivering innovative solutions to our customers. Our team has been actively engaging with various Level 2 and Level 3 EV charging manufacturers and vendors to identify and assess the feasibility of different charging units. This thorough evaluation process, spearheaded by our Director of Sustainability, Michael Rose, involves a comprehensive review of the advantages and disadvantages of each charging unit and its suitability for our hotel and restaurant clients.

Why does someone buy an EV? It’s safe to say that every EV driver has their own reason for purchasing an electric vehicle.

For starters, electric cars produce zero emissions, which can help to improve air quality and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This is a major selling point for many people who are concerned about the environment.

Other drivers choose EV's for economic reasons. Electric cars can be cheaper to operate than gasoline-powered cars. Depending on where you are, the cost of electricity can be lower than the cost of gasoline.

Another major reasons drivers are choosing EV's over gas-powered cars is that for some people, electric cars are often seen as being more technologically advanced than gasoline-powered cars. They have features like regenerative braking and instant torque that can make them more fun to drive!

Some folks purchase it for establishing wealth, or an elite status image since the average price tag for most EVs is about $20K higher than the average price tag for your traditional combustion engine vehicle.

What about the folks who DON'T want EV's? There are some valid reasons to choose a gas-powered vehicle. Three main reasons why people do not want to buy electric vehicles include:

In addition to these three main reasons, there are many other factors that can influence someone's decision not to buy an electric car. These factors can include the upfront cost of the car , the availability of different models , and the government incentives that are/aren't available.

It is important to note that the electric vehicle market is still relatively new, and the infrastructure and technology are constantly improving. As more and more people buy electric cars, the range anxiety and other concerns will likely diminish.

Ananta's Leadership:

The lack of EV charging infrastructure has someone like Ananta's CEO, Merrill Mangalasseril, extra curious about this industry and how the Ananta team can be a catalyst for the industry.

What if Ananta can change that? What if we can leverage our team, our customers, our networks, and diligence process and assist the United States in deploying more EV charging units across the country?

Our Goal:

Our goal at Ananta Energy Source is to build a team and establish the right partners in the industry where we can help out with EV charging deployment and customize an EV charging solution for many of our customers that have an interest in doing so.

Starting with hotel owners, we are running into hotel owners that are very interested in the technology, understand the EV movement, and want to get involved, but it is still not 100% clear on how involved everybody wants to be. Some hotel owners want a headache-free, maintenance-free, and cost-free solution where they do not have to worry about EV charging units and taking care/maintaining the units. On the other side of the spectrum, you have other hotel owners that want to take on the ownership, installation, and invest in the management process of the EV units. Ultimately, our goal for every hotel owner is to make sure we find the right EV Charging unit for you.

Additional notes: Especially in markets where incentives are available (ie: local government, federal government, utilities, local EPAs, energy coalition groups, etc), many hotel owners can take advantage of these incentives to get the deployment of EV Charging units funded.

Ananta’s Cost Free/Headache Free option:

Ananta currently has an opportunity for hotel owners by offering free level 2 charging hardware, software, and installation with a 10% profit sharing plan with the hotel owner. This promotion is perfect for existing hotel owners who truly want a cost free option, but also want the paid EV charging amenity at their property for additional heads on beds, and additional retail revenue for your full-service hotels, or even select-service hotels that have a market-place for snacks and drinks. There are ways to qualify for up to 70% profit-sharing, but it’s only really for hotel properties that are considered, “make-ready,” and have the existing infrastructure in place. If your hotel currently has staffing issues and you’re concerned about giving your team an additional amenity to manage, this solution might be perfect for your hotel because all maintenance, and customer service is to be handled by Ananta and our partners on this promotion. As technology evolves and changes, our promotion does include complimentary upgrades every 4-5 years on hardware and software.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to add a cost-free, hassle-free EV charging amenity to your hotel and increase your revenue with Ananta's promotion. Contact us today.

5 Reasons to Install EV Chargers At Your Hotel

Wed, 03 May 2023 15:42:00 GMT

Powering Up Your Business: 5 Reasons Why Hotels Should Install EV Chargers

5 reasons to install electric vehicle chargers at your hotel:

As the world shifts towards a clean energy future, businesses and governments are investing in electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure to meet the growing demand for EVs. For hotels, installing EV chargers can be a significant opportunity to attract and retain customers who drive EVs. In this blog, we will discuss six reasons why hotels should install EV chargers.

Growing Demand:

EV adoption is on the rise globally, and the trend is expected to continue. According to the Edison Electric Institute , there are currently more than a million electric vehicles on the road in the United States, and a projected 18 million by 2030. In California, EV sales made up 16% of new vehicle sales in 2022. Needless to say, installing electric vehicle chargers at hotels, businesses can attract and retain this growing loyal segment of drivers who seek out charging options.

Additional Revenue:

Hotels can increase revenue by offering EV charging as a service. Businesses can charge a fee for using their EV charging stations. However, studies show that hotels with restaurants can earn more revenue as EV drivers tend to spend an average of $37 at restaurants per charging session. By offering EV charging, hotels can boost their revenue streams significantly.

Competitive Advantage:

Hotels that offer EV charging stations can enjoy several competitive advantages. They can attract more EV drivers, increase customer satisfaction, boost brand image, generate additional revenue, and qualify for government incentives. In addition, providing EV charging can set a hotel apart from its competitors, as it caters to the needs of a growing segment of drivers.

Free Advertising:

Installing EV chargers can provide free advertising for hotels. By listing their property on one of the many EV charging station finder apps, hotels can let EV drivers know that they offer charging options. Plugshare, for example, has over 3 million unique visitors per month. By advertising their charging stations, hotels can attract new customers and retain existing ones.

Incentives & Rebates:

There are various incentives available to help offset the cost of installing EV charging stations. Federal, state, and utility incentives for businesses make EV charging very affordable. These incentives can come from the federal government, state governments, utilities, and other organizations. By taking advantage of these incentives, hotels can reduce the cost of installing EV chargers and enjoy the benefits that come with offering this service.

Installing EV chargers at hotels is a wise business decision for any hotelier. It can attract and retain customers, generate additional revenue, provide a competitive advantage, offer free advertising, and qualify for government incentives. With the growing demand for EVs, hotels that offer EV charging options can stay ahead of the curve and cater to the needs of a growing segment of drivers.

If you're a hotel owner looking to tap into the growing EV market, Ananta Energy has got you covered. We offer a wide range of reliable and efficient EV chargers that can help you attract and retain EV drivers while boosting your revenue streams. Contact us today to learn more about our products and services and take the first step towards a sustainable future.

FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Rate Increase 2023 | Price to Compare

Wed, 19 Apr 2023 13:57:43 GMT

The FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Rate Increase Price to Compare 2023

The FirstEnergy Pennsylvania utilities have submitted new tariffed residential and commercial Price to Compare Default rates for the six-month period starting June 1, 2023, under Rider H, to the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission.

Commercial Rates:

Met-Ed: $0.10679 per kWh effective June 1, a 23% increase from the current $0.08679 per kWh.
Penelec: $0.11037 per kWh effective June 1, a 20% increase from the $0.09161 per kWh.
Penn Power: $0.12890 per kWh effective June 1, a 19% increase from the current $0.10818 per kWh.
West Penn Power: $0.10959 per kWh effective June 1, a 45% increase from the current $0.07529 per kWh.

Residential Rates:

Met-Ed: $0.10240 per kWh effective June 1, a 2.5% increase from the current $0.09991 per kWh.
Penelec: $0.09703 per kWh effective June 1, a 1.5% increase from the $0.09561 per kWh.
Penn Power: $0.10556 per kWh effective June 1, a 1.1% increase from the current $0.10439 per kWh.
West Penn Power: $0.09929 per kWh effective June 1, a 20% increase from the current $0.08228 per kWh.

All of these rates are tariffed PTCDefault rates, and will be in effect for the six-month period from June 1, 2023, to November 30, 2023. These rates have been filed by the FirstEnergy Pennsylvania utilities under Rider H with the Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission .

How to lower your electricity bill in Pennsylvania

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) is urging residents to #SaveInPA by considering electric power shopping options that could lead to significant savings on their monthly electricity bills, especially during peak usage times. Despite a prolonged period of increasing energy prices, competitive suppliers in many areas of the state are now offering rates lower than those provided by many utilities for electric generation. Since energy costs usually constitute more than 50% of total utility bills, lower energy prices can have a significant impact on monthly bills.

The Commission has highlighted that the service territories of PPL, PECO, and Duquesne Light, which cover several major communities such as Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, and their suburbs, as well as Allentown, Bethlehem, Harrisburg, Lancaster, and Scranton, have the potential for the highest savings, ranging from 21% to almost 49%, subject to market price changes.

Short-term and long-term supplier offers in these territories are significantly lower than the utility generation rate. For instance, supplier prices in PPL's service territory are up to 37% lower for long-term contracts and nearly 49% lower for short-term contracts. Similarly, in Duquesne Light's territory, supplier prices are as much as 21% lower for long-term contracts and 36% lower for short-term contracts, while PECO's supplier prices are up to 21% lower for long-term contracts and 31% lower for short-term contracts. The potential savings in these areas can have a substantial impact on monthly electric bills.

Although prices vary between suppliers and regions, the average short-term savings across the state are 24%, while the average long-term savings are 15%. It is worth noting that the highest savings are usually available where current utility generation prices are the highest, particularly in PPL's service territory, but not all offers are available in every service territory.

How to start comparing electricity prices in PA?

Looking to save money on your energy bills ? Consider exploring your electric power shopping options with Ananta Energy Source. By comparing rates and switching to a competitive supplier, you could potentially save a substantial amount of money on the energy portion of your monthly electric bill. Don't let rising energy prices impact your budget - take control of your energy costs today and start saving with Ananta Energy Source. Contact us to learn more about our services and how we can help you save.

Navigating the NOPEC Electricity Aggregation 2023 | Ohio

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 15:21:32 GMT

NOPEC Services Returns to Ohio with Energy Aggregation Program

NOPEC , the Northeast Ohio Public Energy Council, is sending opt-out letters to over half a million electricity consumers in the region, asking if they want to participate in its energy aggregation program this summer. NOPEC is re-enrolling the 550,000 electricity customers it dropped last summer after its energy costs spiked and were no longer competitive with FirstEnergy's standard rate. NOPEC's aggregated rate for electricity this summer and fall is expected to be a better deal than FirstEnergy. Customers who don't opt out will be re-enrolled automatically, and those who want to rejoin NOPEC's program don't need to do anything. The opt-out deadline is May 2, and consumers can opt out once every three years without penalty.

NOPEC serves 240 Ohio communities, and customers in the region have the option to choose their own electricity supplier. The first meter reading will be in June. Last summer, NOPEC's customers were returned to FirstEnergy's standard service offering because NOPEC's rate could no longer compete due to uncertainty in the energy market and the timing of competitive auctions for power supply. This summer, NOPEC customers will be getting the better deal compared to those sticking with FirstEnergy's Ohio utilities Ohio Edison , The Illuminating Company , and Toledo Edison . NOPEC's rate for meter readings in June through December will be 6.45 cents per kilowatt-hour, while FirstEnergy's rate will be about 10.1 cents, up from its current rate of about 5.8 cents, which will continue through May.

After the initial six-month period, NOPEC ratepayers will return to its standard program price, which could change month-to-month. NOPEC does offer 12- and 24-month fixed term pricing. If you are interested in shopping different electricity rates for your business please contact us as soon as possible.

NOPAC's Letter:

FirstEnergy Rate Increase 2023 - Choose Your Supplier

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 15:21:38 GMT

FirstEnergy Energy Rate Increase 2023

Is the FirstEnergy rate increase in 2023 weighing you down? Starting in June, FirstEnergy customers in Northeast Ohio can expect to see an almost doubled cost of power reflected in their electricity bills.

The new FirstEnergy base price will be 10.2 cents per kilowatt-hour, up 93% from the current rate of 5.3 cents per kilowatt-hour.

Customers of FirstEnergy subsidiaries, such as Ohio Edison and the Illuminating Company, will experience this increase from June 2023 to May 2024 if they are on the standard service offer. The usage part of a customer’s bill is based on how much electricity they use while the other half is a set price that FirstEnergy charges to distribute power to homes, which accounts for 40% of a customer's bill on average.

The reason behind this price hike lies in how Ohio's energy market is established, with utilities like FirstEnergy buying electricity at auctions for the standard service offer and then passing the power and its costs on to consumers. In recent times, FirstEnergy has had to pay significantly more for power, with the most recent auction resulting in a price of $83.75 per MWh. This, along with expenses such as the cost of running auctions and renewable electricity sources, is included in customers' bills.

FirstEnergy customers aren't the only ones to be affected. Both AEP Ohio and Duke Energy have increased their rates as well.

How Can Avoid the FirstEnergy Rate Increase?

While customers can shop for their electricity supplier on the open market, many people in the Cleveland area receive their electricity by default through FirstEnergy's standard service offer.

We suggest any FirstEnergy customers pay closer attention to your electricity bills and switch to a cheaper option on the open market if you are not satisfied with the current rates.

Customers who decide to switch should aim to do so during their May meter reading by signing up for a new supplier no later than mid-April to avoid timing issues.

Ananta Energy can assist Ohioan business owners in selecting a new electricity suppliers .

What is FirstEnergy's Service Area?

The Illuminating Company
Including Avon, Cleveland, Lakewood, North Olmstead, and Painesville.

Ohio Edison
Including Akron, Ashland, Elyria, Mansfield, and Youngstown.

Toledo Edison
Including Archbold, Bryan, Delta, Toledo, and Wauseon.

Updated April 26th:

FirstEnergy Ohio Rider GEN Rates Will More Than Double For Residential and Commercial Customers (Official Tariff Filed)

The FirstEnergy Ohio utilities have updated their tariff for the period starting on June 1, 2023. This update includes the new retail rates for energy and capacity charges for residential and general service-secondary customers.

The Rider GEN is the main part of the bypassable SSO that reflects energy and capacity, and there are other riders like reconciliation, renewable compliance, and non-distribution uncollectibles that are also bypassable.

The new Rider GEN rates for residential and general service-secondary customers are going up by more than 110%, from about 5.6 cents per kWh to over 12 cents per kWh. The listed Rider GEN amounts reflect both the energy and capacity charges, which are charged on a per kWh basis. These rates are for the standard customer class and don't include any optional time of day rates.

Duke Energy Rate Increase 2023 - Choose Your Supplier

Tue, 14 Mar 2023 19:04:45 GMT

Your Duke Energy Electricity Bill Rate Increase

Will your business be affected by the Duke Energy rate increase in 2023? Similar to AEP and all the deregulated Ohio electricity utilities, they held their auctions in tranches between September 2022 and February 2023, respectively.

Effective June 2023, these Duke Energy default rates are scheduled to increase to a rate of $0.08938/kWh .

Duke Energy held their auctions twice with their first tranche hedged September 20, 2022 with 20% of the load at a rate of $115.75/MWh ( $0.11575/kWh ) and the second tranche hedged last month on February 21, 2023 with the remaining 80% at a rate of $82.79/MWh ($0.08279/kWh).

See below for the Duke Energy auction results:

When you look at their weighted-average rate, you have an actual rate of $0.089338/kWh, which will be the average price-to-compare (PTC) in the DUKE Energy utilities. The weighted-average-rate is broken down below:

Once again, if you haven’t locked your rates yet, and want transparent open-book pricing on the wholesale electricity market, please visit our website for more information and/or contact us and learn how we can help you take steps to prevent your business from AEP’s next scheduled rate hike.

For a detailed utility territory map of DUKE Energy, please take a look at the map below:

AEP Ohio Rate Increase 2023 - Choose Your Supplier

Fri, 10 Mar 2023 20:05:09 GMT

AEP Ohio Default Utility Rates for 2023

Will your business be affected by the recent AEP Ohio rate increase? More importantly, do you know how your default electricity rates with your utilities are set?

The rates are set by auctions held by the utility working in accordance with the Public Utility Commission of Ohio (PUCO). In the state of Ohio, customers are given the option to choose between AEP Ohio or a Competitive Retail Energy Supplier (CRES) to provide their electric generation. If customers choose AEP Ohio, the company uses a competitive market auction to acquire generation supply.

During this process, energy supply companies submit their bids to offer energy supply to AEP Ohio customers at the lowest possible price for a specified time period. This generation supply is called the Standard Service Offer (SSO), and its rates are updated every June.

An independent monitor oversees the competitive auction process that determines the SSO rate, which is approved by the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio . AEP Ohio is obligated by law to pass on the energy supply cost to its customers without any markup.

This rate hike will affect AEP Ohio customers in cities like Columbus, OH, the state capital, and surrounding cities. If you’re a business owner in Columbus, OH, and you’re not locked in with a third party energy supplier (ie: Direct Energy, Constellation Energy, AEP Energy (Retail), or IGS Energy to name a few), then you’re currently on a default rate with the local utility, paying a rate between $0.055/kWh - $0.072/kWh.

Effective June 2023 , these rates are scheduled to increase to a rate of $0.10269/kWh.

AEP held their auctions twice with their first tranche hedged November 1, 2022 with 45% of the load at a rate of $119.98/MWh ( $0.11998/kWh. )

The second tranche hedged recently on March 7,2023 with the remaining 55% at a rate of $88.55/MWh ( $0.08855/kWh .)

See below for Auction results:

When you look at their weighted-average rate, you have an actual rate of $0.10269/kWh , which will be the average price-to-compare (PTC) in the AEP utilities. The weighted-average-rate is broken down below:

If you have yet to secure your electricity rates and wish to have a transparent, open-book pricing model on the wholesale electricity market, we can assist you in taking proactive steps to protect your business from AEP's anticipated rate hike. Please don't hesitate to contact us for more information on how we can help you.

For a detailed utility territory map of AEP Ohio, please take a look at the two territories below or visit the PUCO Electric Certified Territories Map .

AEP Ohio suffered significant damage to its transmission system due to severe storms several months ago, leading to power outages in Columbus neighborhoods. As a result, AEP is now requesting additional funding from its customers to upgrade its infrastructure and replace aging equipment. In exchange for this funding, AEP has proposed investing $2.2 billion over six years to improve the reliability of the grid and launch pilot programs that could serve as backup power sources during local outages. According to Marc Reitter, the president and chief operating officer of AEP Ohio, this proposal outlines the company's plan to make electric grid investments that will strengthen its ability to provide reliable power to customers.

What Is Budget Billing? How Is It Calculated?

Wed, 08 Mar 2023 17:50:27 GMT

How Does Budget Billing Work?

Electricity and natural gas budget billing are payment plans offered by utility companies that allow customers to pay a consistent and predictable amount for their monthly energy usage, rather than fluctuating amounts due to changes in energy consumption and market prices.

Budget billing works by averaging out a customer's energy usage over the past year and using that average as the basis for monthly payments. This allows customers to spread out the cost of their energy usage evenly over the course of the year, making it easier to budget for their monthly expenses.

Overall, budget billing can be a good idea for customers who prefer consistent payments and want to avoid large fluctuations in their monthly energy bills. It can also be helpful for customers on a fixed income or those who want to simplify their monthly budgeting process.

However, it's important to note that budget billing is not for everyone. Customers who use significantly more energy than they did in the previous year may end up owing a large amount of money at the end of the billing period. Additionally, if market prices for energy increase, customers on budget billing may end up paying more than they would have if they were paying for their actual energy usage each month.

If you decide that budget billing is not for you, you can typically unenroll from the program by contacting your utility company. Keep in mind that if you cancel budget billing, you will likely be responsible for paying any remaining balance on your account that is not covered by your monthly payments.

Budget billing is typically calculated by taking the average of a customer's energy usage over the past year and dividing it by 12 to get the monthly payment amount. This amount may be adjusted periodically based on changes in energy prices or usage. Some utility companies also offer online tools or mobile apps that allow customers to view and adjust their budget billing amounts as needed.

Ohio's Greene County New Natural Gas Prices To Start in Spring 23'

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 19:57:03 GMT

Greene County Implements Natural Gas Aggregation Program for Better Rates

Greene County voters passed a ballot initiative for natural gas aggregation, and the county is now working to provide better rates to residents and businesses in unincorporated areas through collective buying power. Commissioners recently passed their Plan of Operation and Governance for the natural gas aggregation program, and they are working with energy broker Palmer Energy to collect bids from natural gas suppliers. Once the company has received prices from suppliers, Palmer and the commission will negotiate a one- to three-year contract with the supplier providing the best rate for program participants. The bidding process will occur in the spring, and the program will begin in the fall. Residents and businesses can opt out of the aggregation program at no cost up to 21 days after a notice of rates and terms of the aggregation is mailed to them. Customers can also join the program at a later date, even if they initially opted out, though the same rates cannot be guaranteed, according to public documents.

Most natural gas customers in Greene County’s unincorporated areas are currently under Columbia Gas of Ohio or CenterPoint Energy . Under the aggregation program, a community entity negotiates with suppliers on behalf of a larger group of eligible households, nonprofits, and small businesses in an effort to save money. This gives residents, businesses, and local governments collective buying power, according to County Administrator Brandon Huddleson.

Greene County passed and entered into an electric aggregation contract in 2021. “Because the cost of natural gas has been low for a long time, but now it’s rising — along with everything else — there’s renewed interest in that,” Huddleson said. AES Ohio raised their price per kWh for electricity from its “standard offer” price of 4.805 cents to 10.91 cents last year. In contrast, Greene County residents that are part of the electric aggregation program are locked in at 4.47 kWh through May of 2024, less than half of AES Ohio’s rate.

Explore our natural gas procurement services to see if your business or household can secure lower rates and more cost savings.

Toledo Edison Customers Confused Over New Supplier On Electricity Bill

Thu, 02 Mar 2023 15:10:40 GMT

Toledo Edison Electricity Customers Confused About Bill Change

Toledo Edison customer Nikie Craig recently discovered a letter from an energy supplier that she had disregarded, which led her to notice a higher-than-usual bill with another company listed at the bottom. Dozens of other Toledo Edison customers have reported the same issue.

According to a spokesperson for Toledo Edison, customers who reside in a municipality enrolled in a government aggregation program are automatically enrolled in the program, unless they opt out of it individually.

It is advisable to pay close attention to all the mail received in your mailbox, as what may appear to be junk mail could actually be important, particularly when it comes to your electric bill.

Customers can contact Toledo Edison to opt out of the aggregation program.

The FirstEnergy electric bill comprises two parts: delivery and supply. FirstEnergy is responsible for delivering electricity to customers, while energy suppliers generate the electricity that powers the community. Customers have the option to shop for an energy supplier. If customers do not choose a supplier, they are charged a default energy supply rate negotiated by FirstEnergy.

Customers can visit the PUCO’s Apples to Apples tool online to explore alternative electricity supplier options. It is essential to consider factors such as the price, plan structure, contract terms and conditions, and any applicable taxes, charges or fees when evaluating alternative supplier offers.

Customers are also encouraged to conserve energy by exploring energy-saving tips available on the FirstEnergy website.

US Natural Gas Prices Fall To Lowest Level Since 2020

Wed, 22 Feb 2023 15:24:48 GMT

Natural Gas Prices Plunge Nearly 80%

The U.S. benchmark natural gas price experienced a sharp decline on Tuesday, falling by up to 10% to reach its lowest level since September 2020. This price drop was caused by milder weather conditions, which led to lower demand for natural gas. On Wednesday, the cost of natural gas at the Henry Hub was recorded at approximately $2.043 per million British thermal units (MMBtu), which indicates a 1.59% decrease.

The plummeting prices observed in recent weeks can be attributed to several factors, including a mild start to January, consistently high supply, and an outage at the Freeport LNG export facility. The benchmark U.S. natural gas prices have been impacted by mild weather and high production, resulting in a decrease of $6 per MMBtu from mid-December and over $9 per MMBtu from August 2022. This translates to a crash of nearly 80% from August to February.

According to last week’s Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report by the EIA , the stocks of working gas in storage were 328 Bcf higher than last year at this time and 183 Bcf above the five-year average.

The price slide can also be attributed to the imminent expiration of the front-month contract on February 24.

EBW Analytics Group analyst Eli Rubin stated that the technical outlook for natural gas prices is “strongly bearish.” Last Friday, prices dropped below the “critical technical support” at the $2.35 per MMBtu level. However, Rubin noted that "solidifying fundamentals may offer support after the March contract rolls off the board and April becomes the front-month contract."

The Energy Information Administration's Short-Term Energy Outlook (STEO) for February forecasts a 30% reduction in the Henry Hub spot price, estimating $3.40 per MMBtu for 2023, down from $4.90 per MMBtu in the January forecast. The Henry Hub natural gas price averaged $6.42 per MMBtu last year.

If you are looking to take advantage of this major dip in the market contact us to learn more about natural gas procurement !

Ameren Rate Increase in Illinois - Electricity and Gas Hike

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 14:31:23 GMT

Ameren Files For Another Electricity and Natural Gas Rate Hike.

Ameren Illinois, a leading electric and gas delivery company in the state, has submitted proposals for electric and gas rate hikes.

The proposals include a $160.4 million gas rate increase over one year and a four-year $435.6 million increase in electric rates, which will be reviewed by the Illinois Commerce Commission. The requests are due to various factors, such as the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act, which aims to make the state's energy sources 100% carbon-free by 2050. This act requires electric utility companies to file a multi-year integrated grid plan with the ICC. The plan will help Ameren maintain the stability of its grid during severe weather conditions and transition to clean energy.

However, the citizens Utility Board and other groups are concerned about the high rates, especially after a monthly increase of $52 for the average Ameren customer last year.

The reasons for the rate increases include supply and demand challenges, the COVID-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, and the requirement to shut down coal-powered facilities in the state. Ameren expects to see a 25% increase in energy costs for customers this winter. The company serves 1.2 million electric and 816,000 natural gas customers in central and southern Illinois.

According to their website, Ameren covers three-quarters of the state and serves 1.2 million electric and 816,000 natural gas customers in central and southern Illinois.

A customer's bill covers supply and delivery costs, but Ameren claims that they do not profit from the increased rates. According to the company's documents, the cost of energy makes up less than half of the typical monthly bill.

The CUB, a non-partisan non-profit organization, has opposed the rate hikes and will challenge every penny that Ameren cannot justify.

“This is awful news for Ameren customers who already were suffering under some of the highest electric and gas supply prices in Illinois history as well as earlier Ameren rate hikes,” said CUB Executive Director, David Kolata.

The 11-month ICC review process, including public comment, will conclude in December.

The state of Illinois provides a low-income home energy assistance program to help households struggling with their utility bills, with eligible customers able to apply until May 31 or until funding runs out.

If your business is in Illinois and at risk, please give us a call to discuss your energy saving solutions in Illinois.

Electric Vehicles Linked to Reduction In Air Pollution

Wed, 08 Feb 2023 15:50:11 GMT

New Study Links Electric Vehicles to Reduction In Air Pollution & Respiratory Problems

A study by the Keck School of Medicine of USC found a link between increased use of zero-emission vehicles (ZEVs) and improved air quality and public health in California. The study is one of the first to use real-world data and shows that EVs are associated with reductions in air pollution and respiratory problems.

Results show that each increase of 20 ZEVs per 1,000 people within a zip code reduced NO2 by 0.41 parts per billion in the air and reduced asthma-related emergency visits by 3.2%.

The study also highlights the ZEV adoption gap in neighborhoods with low educational attainment, leading to disparities in cleaner air and improved public health. The findings are important for policymakers and provide evidence for creating policies that ensure a just and equitable transition to ZEVs.

Future research is needed to better understand the long-term effects of the transition to ZEVs on air quality and public health.

So, how was this study conducted?

A research team analyzed four datasets to study the effects of electric vehicle (ZEV) adoption on air quality and health. They obtained data on ZEVs, air pollutant nitrogen dioxide levels, and asthma-related emergency room visits from the California Department of Motor Vehicles and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The team also calculated the percentage of adults with bachelor's degrees in each zip code as a measure of socioeconomic status.

Looking for ways to make your workplace safer for employees and the environment? Contact us to learn about our Electric Vehicle Charging options .

FirstEnergy PA Commercial Price-To-Compare Electricity Prices to Fall 30%

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 17:39:13 GMT

FirstEnergy Pennsylvania Commercial Price to Compare Falling Up To 30%

The Pennsylvania PUC has received new tariffed commercial PTC-Default rate filings from FirstEnergy utilities for the period starting March 1, 2023. These rates represent the all-in default service prices, before the addition of the State Tax Adjustment Surcharge, which is currently 0%.

For commercial customers, there are different rates depending on the utility.

Met-Ed will offer a commercial PTC-Default rate of $0.08679 per kWh starting March 1, a decrease of 31% from the current rate of $0.12567 per kWh.

Penelec will offer a commercial PTC-Default rate of $0.09161 per kWh starting March 1, a decrease of 14% from the current rate of $0.10679 per kWh.

Penn Power will offer a commercial PTC-Default rate of $0.10818 per kWh starting March 1, a decrease of 10% from the current rate of $0.12035 per kWh.

West Penn Power will offer a commercial PTC-Default rate of $0.07529 per kWh starting March 1, a decrease of 28% from the current rate of $0.10504 per kWh.

Shopping for electricity rates in Pennsylvania can be a headache. Learn more on how we can help you save on your energy bill .

What Is A Virtual Power Plant? Electricity On-Demand

Thu, 19 Jan 2023 03:30:26 GMT

The Virtual Power Plant Market

The virtual power plant market is expected to grow rapidly , reaching a revenue of USD 12,273.3 million by 2030. This growth can be attributed to factors such as the increasing acceptance of advanced technologies in the power industry, a focus on cost-effectiveness in power generation, ease of access to power through VPPs, and growing awareness of the benefits of renewable power. The demand response category is currently the largest segment of the market and is expected to continue to be so in the future, due to the direct benefits it provides to end consumers in the form of incentives for varying their power usage. Key trends in the industry include high investment in VPP installations and the fastest growth in the electric vehicles category. North America is currently the largest market for VPP solutions, driven by factors such as the growth of renewable power installations, expansion of smart grid networks, and increasing acceptance of grid balancing solutions.

Meanwhile, Tesla's California Virtual Power Plant (VPP) has seen quick growth, reaching over 5,700 homes from both PG&E and SoCal Edison customers by the end of 2022. According to LastBulb , the system was used in ten events between August and September 2022, and it contributed an estimated 577 MWh to the grid during these events. Each home that took part in the events contributed an average of 15 kWh to the grid, and the system was able to provide an estimated 84 MWh of potential backup energy per event. The system is expected to continue to grow and improve in the future, potentially providing a significant amount of energy to support the state's grid.

What Does A Virtual Power Plant Do?

A virtual power plant (VPP) is a system that combines the output of multiple distributed energy resources (DERs), such as solar panels and battery storage systems, to create a single, centrally controlled asset that can be used to generate electricity on demand. The VPP is typically controlled by a central management system that receives data from the individual DERs and uses it to optimize their output in real-time.

The idea behind a VPP is to create a decentralized power grid that is more resilient, flexible, and efficient than a traditional grid. By using distributed energy resources, a VPP can take advantage of small-scale generation and storage capabilities, allowing it to respond quickly to changes in demand or supply. Additionally, by using advanced control algorithms, a VPP can be used to balance supply and demand on the grid, reducing the need for expensive power plants and helping to improve overall grid reliability.

The working of VPP can be seen in three main components:

The distributed energy resources (DERs), such as solar panels, wind turbines, and battery storage systems, that make up the VPP.
The communications infrastructure, such as smart meters and wireless networks, that connects the DERs to the central management system.
The central management system, which receives data from the DERs and uses it to optimize their output in real-time.

Overall, a VPP functions as a sophisticated tool to aggregate, manage and control distributed energy resources, enabling to optimize grid and energy services.

So, WHY Is The Term 'Virtual Power Plant' Used?

A virtual power plant (VPP) is called as such because it functions in a similar way to a traditional power plant, but it does not physically exist as a single, centralized facility. Instead, a VPP is a virtual system that combines the output of multiple distributed energy resources (DERs) in order to generate electricity on demand.

The term "virtual" refers to the fact that the power plant is not a physical entity, but rather a digital system that is created through the integration of various technologies such as advanced control algorithms, communication infrastructure, and software platforms. The distributed energy resources (DERs) that make up the VPP can be located in different places, and the power generated by them can be combined and dispatched centrally to provide energy services.

Virtual Power Plants Vs. Energy Cogeneration

Co-generation , also known as combined heat and power (CHP), is a process in which electricity and useful thermal energy (heat) are generated simultaneously from a single fuel source, typically through the use of a combustion engine or turbine. The heat generated by the engine or turbine is typically used for heating or cooling buildings, or for industrial processes.

Virtual power plants, on the other hand, are systems that combine the output of multiple distributed energy resources (DERs) to create a single, centrally controlled asset that can be used to generate electricity on demand. These resources could be a mix of power sources including, solar, wind, batteries and other energy storage. The distributed energy resources (DERs) that make up the VPP can be located in different places, and the power generated by them can be combined and dispatched centrally to provide energy services.

In short, both co-generation and virtual power plants aim to generate electricity and utilize the generated heat, but in the case of Co-generation, it happens in a single facility or equipment using a single fuel source. While in VPP, multiple sources of energy are combined to create a digital asset that can be controlled and dispatched centrally to provide energy services.

Are you looking for ways to support the grid and reduce your energy costs? Contact us for more information.

What Is An Electrical Interval Meter?

Fri, 06 Jan 2023 18:21:35 GMT

Why Business Owners Should Know About Electrical Interval Meters

An electrical interval meter is a device that measures the amount of electricity consumption over a certain period of time. It is typically installed in businesses or homes to monitor the amount of power consumed by various appliances or electrical systems. The meter records the amount of electricity used in intervals, such as 15-minute or 30-minute periods, and then stores this information in a log. This data can then be used to calculate the cost of electricity usage and identify any potential problems or inefficiencies in the system. Since these meters have communications attached and are remotely read they are known as Type 1 to 4 meters and have also been called "Time of Use" meters.

Business owners can benefit from reading their electrical interval meter in several ways. First, monitoring electricity usage can help business owners identify potential areas where they can save money on their electricity bills . By examining the meter's records, business owners can identify which appliances or systems are using the most electricity and take steps to reduce their energy consumption.

For example, if a business owner notices that the office refrigerator is using more energy than necessary, they can replace it with a more energy-efficient model. This can lead to significant savings in the long run.

An interval meter can also help business owners identify any potential problems with their electrical systems. The meter can detect any spikes in electricity usage that may indicate a malfunctioning appliance, lighting, or any other system. By addressing these issues early, business owners can save time and money on repairs and minimize the risk of electrical fires or other safety hazards.

Finally, reading an electrical interval meter can help business owners better understand the amount of electricity they use and how they use it. This information can help them make informed decisions about their electricity usage and identify areas where they can reduce electricity costs. For example, if a business owner notices that their electricity usage tends to spike during certain times of the day, they can adjust their usage habits to reduce their overall electricity consumption and save money. In summary, electrical interval meters can be a valuable tool for business owners. Business owners who monitor their electricity usage can identify potential areas where they can save money, identify any potential problems with their electrical system, and make informed decisions about their electricity usage.

Be sure to stay up to date on interval meter rules in your state. For example, AES Ohio requires electric choice businesses with peak demand that is equal to or exceeds 200 kW within the last 12 months to install an interval meter.

AAHOA 2023 Convention & Tradeshow | Things to Know

Wed, 14 Dec 2022 16:23:12 GMT

What is the AAHOA 2023 Convention?

AAHOA Convention (Asian American Hotel Owners Association) is the largest gathering of hoteliers in the world. It is a four-day event which brings together hotel owners and operators, industry suppliers and other professionals from around the world to discuss the latest trends, strategies and resources in the hospitality industry. The event also serves as a platform to network, build business partnerships, and gain insight into the ever-changing hospitality industry. The annual AAHOA Convention is important because it offers a valuable source of information, resources and best practices to hospitality industry professionals from all around the world. The AAHOA Tradeshow is a great opportunity to create business relationships with key industry players and to learn about the newest developments and innovations in the hospitality industry.

Where is AAHOA 2023?

The 2023 AAHOA Convention will take place at The Los Angeles Convention Center, an iconic landmark in the city of L.A. It has hosted some of the most well-known events in the city, including the Academy Awards and the Emmy Awards, and is also the site of the popular E3 video game expo, one of the largest events of its kind in the world. The convention center has also been used as a filming location for a number of popular movies and television shows, such as Blade Runner and the Fresh Prince of Bel Air.

How Do I Get There?

Traffic in Los Angeles can get a bit hectic. However, there are many ways to get to the LACC. For the most up to date directions head over to their website and choose your route .

Exhibiting at AAHOA 2023

Exhibiting at AAHOA convention can be a great way to gain exposure and develop relationships within the hospitality industry. It provides a platform to meet and network with key players in the industry, showcase your products and services, and gain valuable insight from industry experts. Additionally, it allows exhibitors to demonstrate the latest in hospitality innovation, learn about best practices and share ideas with peers. By participating in an AAHOA convention, exhibitors can increase their visibility and gain valuable business contacts.

To be an exhibitor head over to the AAHOA page to reserve your booth.

Last Year @ AAHOA Featuring Ray Lewis

Meet Tom...

Once upon a time there was a hotelier named Tom who was determined to make it big in the hospitality industry. He had heard about the Annual American Hotel & Lodging Association Convention (AAHOA) and was eager to attend. With some saved up money, he was able to make the trip and arrived at the convention full of hope and ambition. He quickly got to work, introducing himself to as many people as possible and networking with potential business partners. After a few hours, he had managed to build a solid foundation of contacts but still hadn't made a deal. Frustrated, Tom decided to take a break and explore the convention. As he was walking around, he stumbled across a small booth tucked away in a corner. Inside, he found an elderly gentleman who was selling a rundown motel. Tom thought it looked like a lost cause, but something about the old man piqued his curiosity. He decided to take a chance and strike a deal. After some back and forth, the two eventually agreed on a price. Tom had just made the deal of his life. He was feeling ecstatic, for he knew that this motel could be the start of something big. Tom quickly got to work on renovating and modernizing the motel, and before long it was transformed into a beautiful and successful hotel. He was now a successful hotelier in his own right, and he had the AAHOA convention - and the old man - to thank for it.

This is just one example of the hundreds of thousands of interactions that take place at AAHOA.

Top 10 Reasons to Attend the AAHOA Convention and Tradeshow 2023

1. Network with top hospitality industry professionals.

2. Learn about the latest trends and developments in the hospitality industry.

3. Gain insight into how to manage and grow your business.

4. Get inspired by the keynote speakers.

5. Attend educational sessions and workshops.

6. Explore new business opportunities.

7. Discover new products and services.

8. Access resources and tools to help you succeed.

9. Take advantage of special discounts and packages.

10. Have fun and make lasting connections.

The 2023 AAHOA Convention Schedule

Tuesday, April 11

9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Attendee & Exhibitor Registration

3:00 PM - 4:30 PM Past Chair Meeting

3:30 PM - 5:00 PM Education Workshop

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM PAC Reception, Invite Only

7:30 PM - 9:30 PM Welcome Reception

Wednesday, April 12

6:00 AM - 7:00 AM Wellness - Yoga/Meditation

7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Attendee & Exhibitor Breakfast

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Attendee & Exhibitor Registration

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM General Session

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Trade Show Open

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Attendee Lunch on Trade Show Floor

1:30 PM - 4:30 PM Concurrent Education Sessions

4:30 PM - 5:30 PM Young Professionals Session

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM VIP Reception, Invite Only

7:30 PM - 10:00 PM AAHOA Block Party

Thursday, April 13

6:00 AM - 7:00 AM Wellness - Yoga/Meditation

7:00 AM - 9:00 AM Attendee & Exhibitor Breakfast

7:00 AM - 5:00 PM Attendee & Exhibitor Registration

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM General Session

11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Trade Show Open

11:00 AM - 7:00 PM E-Voting

11:30 AM - 2:00 PM Women's Hoteliers Session & Luncheon

12:00 PM - 2:00 PM Lunch on Trade Show Floor

1:30 PM - 4:30 PM Concurent Education Sessions

5:00 PM - 6:30 PM Tech Pitch Competition

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Young Professionals Reception

7:00 PM - 11:00 PM Garba Night

Friday, April 14

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM Attendee Breakfast

9:00 AM - 11:45 AM General Session

11:45 AM - 12:30 PM Open Forum

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM Attendee Lunch

1:30 PM - 6:00 PM Explore LA - On Own

6:00 PM - 7:00 PM Gala Reception

7:00 PM - 2:00 AM Gala Dinner + Entertainment

For the most up-to-date information on the AAHOA 2023 schedule/agenda be sure to check out their site .

20 Reasons Why Energy Deregulation Is Good

Thu, 08 Dec 2022 18:21:16 GMT

There are many benefits to energy deregulation. Here are 20.

1. Deregulation offers consumers more choice in energy suppliers and plans, allowing them to select the energy option that works best for them.

2. It encourages competition in the energy market, which can drive down prices and increase the quality of service.

3. It encourages innovation by allowing companies to create and offer new energy products and services.

4. It can provide consumers with access to renewable energy sources, like solar and wind power.

5. Deregulation often includes consumer protection measures that can help guard against price gouging or other unfair practices.

6. It can create job opportunities in the energy sector, allowing for the growth of new businesses.

7. It encourages investment in energy infrastructure, which can help improve reliability and access to energy.

8. It can promote energy efficiency, as consumers will be more likely to use only the energy they need.

9. Deregulation can improve the financial outlook for energy companies, allowing them to reinvest in their businesses.

10. It can reduce dependence on foreign energy sources, promoting energy independence.

11. It can help reduce air pollution, as more efficient energy sources are used.

12. It can increase transparency and accountability in the energy market, as customers can more easily compare prices and services.

13. It can provide more access to energy sources in rural or remote areas, as companies can provide services to more customers.

14. It can help reduce the amount of energy wasted by allowing customers to choose the most efficient plans.

15. It can help increase the utilization of renewable energy sources, as customers may be more likely to choose these options.

16. It can provide customers with more control over their energy use, as they can choose plans that are tailored to their own needs.

17. It can lead to more energy-related jobs, as companies will need to hire people to manage the deregulation process.

18. It may lead to a decrease in the cost of energy, as companies will be competing to offer the lowest prices.

19. It may provide a better balance between energy supply and demand, as customers can better match their energy use to their needs.

20. It may encourage energy companies to focus more on customer satisfaction, as they will be competing for customers.

PPL Price to Compare Rate Increase Drives Up Business Costs in Pennsylvania

Wed, 02 Nov 2022 16:40:45 GMT

PPL Electric Price to Compare to Rise 26%

It's that time of year! The PPL Price-to-Compare (PTC) has officially been posted on the PPL website .

For small business customers in Pennsylvania, including GS-1 and GS-3 (< 100 kW), the new PTC will be 14.751¢/kWh , which is 26% higher than the current PTC of 11.695¢/kWh . For many businesses, the beginning of winter means more electricity use and higher bills .

The new PPL default rate will be effective from December 1st, 2022 - May 31st, 2023 .

Now is a perfect time to go shopping for a new commercial electricity plan.

The PPL Now Under Investigation

The Pennsylvania Public Utility Commission (PUC) has announced an investigation into PPL Electric Utilities after some customers received "unusually high" energy bills. The PUC will examine the cause of the excessive bills, as well as the accuracy and billing practices of the company. The commission is encouraging customers to reach out to PPL with any concerns, but if they don't receive a satisfactory response, they are advised to contact the PUC's Bureau of Consumer Services. The PUC's investigation will aim to ensure "safe and reliable utility service at reasonable rates."

Last month, PPL acknowledged a technical system issue that temporarily prevented the company from accessing customer usage data, leading to some customers receiving estimated bills based on their past usage. The company informed customers that the differences between the estimated bills would be corrected in the following bill, however, some customers were still surprised to receive bills much higher than expected. Although the PUC allows for estimated bills to be temporarily charged, the agency's investigation will ensure that customers are not overcharged.

The recent price increase by PPL, which took effect on December 1, has likely contributed to the customer's surprise. The rate increase raised the default rate to 14.61 cents per kilowatt-hour, an 18% increase from the previous rate of 12.36 cents. The company acknowledged that the rate increase would add approximately $22 to the average customer's monthly bill, and that this was the third price increase in just over a year.

On Tuesday, the president of PPL apologized to customers, admitting that the company has "fallen short" in its billing and responsiveness to customers.

PPL isn't the only utility raising their rates. Check out what is happening all around Pennsylvania!

PPL Electric Utilities is a subsidiary of PPL Corporation, a publicly traded company headquartered in Allentown, Pennsylvania. PPL Electric Utilities is responsible for the delivery of electric service to more than 1.4 million customers in 29 counties in eastern and central Pennsylvania. The company was founded in 1920 as the Pennsylvania Power and Light Company (PP&L).

PP&L was created by the merger of several smaller electric companies, including the Allentown Electric Company, the Bethlehem Gas and Electric Company, and the Easton Electric Company. The company's primary focus was the generation and distribution of electricity to customers in the eastern part of the state.

In the early years, PP&L's power generation was primarily fueled by coal, but the company gradually diversified its fuel mix to include natural gas, nuclear, and hydroelectric power. In the 1980s, PP&L was one of the first utilities in the United States to begin investing in energy efficiency and demand-side management programs to help customers reduce their electricity usage.

In the 1990s, PP&L was acquired by the UK-based company, Powergen plc. In 2000, PPL Corporation was created as a spin-off from Powergen and became an independent company. The company's primary business became the generation, transmission, and distribution of electricity in the United States, primarily in Kentucky and Pennsylvania.

In 2010, PPL Electric Utilities was separated from PPL Generation, LLC and became a stand-alone utility company. PPL Electric Utilities has since focused on modernizing its electric distribution system, upgrading substations and transmission lines, and investing in advanced metering infrastructure and smart grid technologies.

Today, PPL Electric Utilities is one of the leading utilities companies in the state of Pennsylvania. The company is committed to providing reliable and affordable electricity to its customers while also investing in cleaner energy sources, energy efficiency, and demand-side management programs.

If your business has been affected by the PPL rate increase please contact us as soon as possible to start saving !

BMW Electric Vehicle Sales Experience 115% Growth in 2022

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 17:18:22 GMT

BMW Electric Vehicle Sales Double in 2022

The past few years have seen sluggish movement for BMW after the release of the EV industry-disruptive BMW i3.

Fast-forward to 2022, BMW has been making huge strides with rollouts of their iX3, iX, i4, iX1 and i7 models, while doubling their sales in the first 3 quarters of 2022. Don’t forget about the MINI E by MINI COOPER, who is owned by BMW, is seeing a huge boost in sales.

It is now safe to say that BMW’s 100%-electric models are on the rise!

In 2022, BMW Group sold 128,196 100% electric vehicles, which puts the company up 114.8% if you compare EV sales against the first 9 months of 2021. In total BMW Group experienced 6.6% growth as a whole.

"Dynamic growth in fully-electric vehicles underlines the appeal of our products,” says Pieter Nota, member of the Board of Management of BMW AG.

BMW EV sales are growing at a fast pace, noting that 52,306 electric vehicles were sold in the 3rd quarter of 2022 — above the average across the first three quarters (which would be 42,732.) Of all of the BMW vehicles sold in the third quarter, electric cars accounted for 8.9% of those sales. BMW’s two newest fully-electric models, the BMW i7 and the BMW iX1 are both expected to continue to drive growth.

Meanwhile, the all-electric MINI Cooper SE Electric is also reporting an increase in sales, with the MINI Countryman on the horizon. In 2023, the BEV lineup to be expanded by the BMW i5 and pure battery-electric Rolls-Royce Spectre, which will celebrate its world premiere in October (with sales starting in Q4 2023.)

If you own an electric vehicle and require EV charging solutions, contact us to shop the best available options.

AES Ohio Electricity Rate Increases - Price to Compare

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 17:10:21 GMT

Why is my AES Ohio Electric Bill So High?

All across the nation, energy prices have gone up, and AES Ohio’s electricity rate increases continue. According to AES, the rate was determined by a third party auction with oversight by the Public Utility Commission of Ohio. The increase was affected by a number of factors including the war in Ukraine, inflation and the price of natural gas.

Rewind to June 1, 2022, when PUCO (Public Utilities Commission of Ohio) approved a rate hike for energy, increasing the default rate for customers that are receiving energy through their local utility. Those especially hit hard were AES-Ohio (DP&L), which saw a whopping increase of 120% above their previous default rate.

If you are under the AES Ohio utility, we have actual data that shows your bill has gone up about 120% for your rate per kWh over the past couple of months.

Watch the video for more info.

From EnergyChoiceMatters :

The Public Utilities Commission of Ohio has approved results from an April procurement of Standard Service Offer supplies at Dayton Power & Light (AES Ohio.)
The SSO auction procured 50 tranches of supply for the period June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023 at a tranche-weighted average price of winning bids of $122.50 per MWh.
The starting price range for the auction had been $85.00 to $105.00 per MWh (there was a sealed bid round.)

For comparison, a March auction had procured 50 tranches of SSO supply for the period June 1, 2022 - May 31, 2023 at a tranche-weighted average price of winning bids of $75.13 per MWh.

Notably, the March auction had been scheduled to procure 100 tranches (100% of supply), but, shortly after the auction commenced, the tranche target was reduced from 100 tranches to 50 tranches, based on predetermined criteria and consistent with auction rules and procedures.

During the PUCO meeting, Commissioner Daniel Conway criticized FERC, stating that delays in various PJM capacity auctions, due to FERC, have "compromised" the ability of the PUCO to stagger standard service offer contracts and procurements as a risk mitigation measure. Conway said FERC's actions, or inactions, have "adversely materially" affected the ability to spread out the procurement dates and has compressed the term lengths of the supply contracts, leaving procurements vulnerable to transient market and global issues, such as the case in the instant procurement.

Commissioner Lawrence Friedeman took the opportunity during the meeting to remind customers that there are alternatives to default service, including competitive supplier offers that may provide relief and/or greater value, and aggregation.

What can I do to lower my AES Ohio Bill?

Those especially hit hard by the AES Ohio rate hikes, saw a whopping increase of 120% above their previous default rate. Our HERA analysis takes these new default rate hikes and makes predictions based off of a customer's historical usage. With that data, we can compare the new default rate with rates we are receiving from our suppliers to see if locking in with a supplier makes sense. We calculate the projected savings/premiums, which our customers can use to plan for their future.

We can answer the following scenarios based off of our research:

This scenario answers the question, how much more can I expect to pay looking at the default rate increase only?
This scenario answers, how much will I save by locking in at the 36 month option from the new default rate?
This scenario answers, how much will I save by locking in at the 48 month option from the new default rate?
This scenario answers, how much will I save by locking in at the 60 month option from the new default rate?
If I lock in at the 48 month, how much more will I be paying than the current default rate that's going to expire.
If I lock in at the 60 month, how much more will I be paying than the current default rate that's going to expire.

See below for examples based on one of our Hotel clients in Dayton:

For more information on how to prevent these rate increases, and start saving in Dayton, Fairborn, Miamisburg, and other areas, contact us sooner than later!

Update: 9/26/22 - AES Files For Default Service Procurement Plan That Would "Protect Customers From Volatile Market-Driven Cost Impacts

AES PRESS RELEASE: Today, AES Ohio, a subsidiary of The AES Corporation ( NYSE: AES ), filed its latest Electric Security Plan (ESP) with the Public Utilities Commission of Ohio (PUCO).

The company's ESP is a comprehensive plan to enhance and upgrade its network and improve service reliability, provide greater safeguards for price stability and continue investments in local economic development. AES Ohio intends to increase investments in the distribution infrastructure and deploy a proactive vegetation management program.

"We understand, first and foremost, our customers want reliable service while maintaining affordable rates," said AES Ohio President and Chief Executive Officer Kristina Lund. "With the lowest distribution rates in Ohio, this plan provides a mechanism to strengthen reliability well into the future and protect our customers from volatile market-driven cost impacts."

If approved as proposed, the initial impact for an AES Ohio residential customer using 750 kilowatt hours per month would be less than $1.00.

Beyond the various requirements of the ESP, AES Ohio is proposing new and innovative programs to help customers save money while meeting their ever-changing energy needs driven by new smart technologies. The plan has energy efficiency programs for residential and low-income customers, which include ways to save by utilizing smart thermostat technology.

Lastly, the plan includes new pricing incentives to promote the growth and expansion of companies in the region, helping to foster a strong local job market.

"AES Ohio remains committed to providing reliable energy at competitive prices, while investing and supporting the communities where we live and work," Lund said. "This plan is thoughtfully designed to best serve our customers, reaffirms our commitment to the community and accelerates the future of energy."

The National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program (NEVI)

Wed, 07 Sep 2022 17:48:21 GMT

What is the NEVI Program? (National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure Program)

With the recent explosion of electric vehicle drivers on the road, more and more do we find the need for a reliable and accessible EV charging station network across the United States. Before we know it a vast majority of new drivers will be driving electric vehicles as their first cars and diesel and gasoline cars will be banned. Currently many states have their own set of rules when it comes to EV charging stations and it has been a challenge to roll out a network of charging stations to operate effectively across the entire nation.

However, The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) NEVI Formula Program provides funding to states to strategically deploy EV charging stations and to establish an interconnected network to facilitate data collection, access, and reliability.

Funding for the NEVI Program is available for up to 80% of eligible project costs, including:

The acquisition, installation, and network connection of EV charging stations to facilitate data collection, access, and reliability;
Proper operation and maintenance of EV charging stations; and,
Long-term EV charging station data sharing.

According to the AFDC :

“EV charging stations must be non-proprietary, allow for open-access payment methods, be publicly available or available to authorized commercial motor vehicle operators from more than one company, and be located along designated FHWA Alternative Fuel Corridors (AFCs). If a state and DOT determine that all AFCs in the state have been fully developed, then the state can propose alternative public locations and roads for EV charging station installation. "

Ananta's CEO, Merrill Mangalasseril, has been investing some of his time into R & D for the DC fast charging industry and is currently exploring solutions for the average hotelier looking to turn their parking lot into an “energy vending machine.” Profit margins could be in the 80%-90% depending on your state, utility, and current rates you have in place.

Disclaimer: This opportunity will not be a good fit for every hotel; pending location and various other factors.

What Are Off-Peak Hours for Electricity

Wed, 10 Aug 2022 17:33:08 GMT

Off-Peak Hours for Electricity Explained

Simply put, Off-peak electricity hours are when the demand for energy is at its lowest. At this time, the electricity rates are usually at their lowest throughout the day.

For example, in Texas , peak demand occurs in the busiest times of the day, typically from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. During these times the cost for electricity is at its lowest for Texas residents and business owners.

There are a few ways you can save money with off-peak electricity rates.

For starters, unplugging appliances and electronics is one of the most common ways to start saving on your bills. Appliances that are plugged in but switched off can still drain your power. In some cases, this energy drain can account for 20% of your electric bill. Be mindful.
Another way to save money on your bill is to program your thermostat. A smart thermostat can be a useful tool in programming temperature settings for each room.
Changing your electricity use to lower-priced (off-peak) times of the day can also be a way to save, depending on your lifestyle.
Time-of-Use Rate Plans are available in many areas. TOU rates are optional rates that allow for a customer to be billed based on on-peak and off-peaks periods of time. To find out more about TOU rates near you, give us a call .

So, What Are Peak Hours?

Peak hours are the periods of the day when electricity demand is at its highest. Generally speaking, electricity is cheaper at night.

When Are Peak Hours?

Peak hours will vary depending on the time of year it is and region of the country you are in. An example of a peak period is the time when folks get off of work and come home. During this period, people are turning on their electronics and appliances and settling into their home for the night. Now that you know what part of the day is electricity cheaper, you can make more informed decisions.

What Happens to EV Batteries When They Die?

Wed, 27 Jul 2022 19:01:36 GMT

How Are EV Batteries Disposed of After They Die?

With so many exciting changes happening in the EV industry we had a few burning questions.

To satisfy our minds, we caught up with our good friends over at XCharge Energy. XCharge offers turn-key smart charging solutions which removes the need for building a costly infrastructure and enabling efficient and easy management solutions that fit your charging needs.

Who better to answer the following questions?

What happens to EV batteries when they are done?
Where do EV batteries go when they die?

Answered by Aatish Patel and Alex Urist of XCharge Power)

What happens to EV batteries when they are done?

When electric batteries are done for EV use (I.e. the capacity rate or performance falls below the needed figures), often the cells are repurposed into other, less intensive applications (generally those that don't require as much itense charge/discharge). In an effort to reduce waste and align with the objectives of a green, “circular economy”, many manufacturers are researching how EV batteries can be repurposed once they have reached the end of their life in electric vehicles.

Once removed from an electric vehicle, most batteries will be fit for other uses, such as energy storage in the electricity grid or the home – both growing areas of storage demand.

Energy Storage is actually the most common use case for depleted EV batteries, hence a lot of the systems you see for energy storage generally are using "refreshed" cells.

Where do EV batteries go when they die?

A key thing to note is that EV batteries never really die. They get to a point where their capacity/performance deteriorates below any useful case.

When batteries do reach the end of their working life in an electric vehicle, the primary focus is on repurposing them (as described above)

If the battery cannot be used for alternative storage purposes, the valuable materials are separated out, such as cobalt, lithium salts, stainless steel, copper, aluminum, and plastic.

Currently, only about half of the materials in an EV battery pack are recycled, but manufacturers are looking to improve on this. For example, Volkswagen is piloting a program to recycle 97% of battery components.

Former Tesla CTO solving lithium-ion battery issues

Other companies have been also making huge strides in electric battery recycling.

Former Tesla CTO who was behind many of their core technologies, JB Straubel, launched Redwood Materials to solve the lithium-ion battery shortage an e-waste issue in the U.S. His company recycles "end-of-life" batteries and then supplies major battery makers with materials in short supply, as EV production surges around the world.

Are you interested in EV charging solutions for your business? Contact us to find out more.

Is Liberty Power Filing for Bankruptcy?

Thu, 14 Jul 2022 18:24:36 GMT

What you need to know about the Liberty Power Bankruptcy

Do you remember when Liberty Power came into the ComEd Illinois marketplace somewhere between 2009 - 2010? They had aggressive rates, aggressive upfront payouts, and maintained some great relationships with their clients.

When we launched Ananta Energy in 2011, the top three energy companies we worked with were Hudson Energy, Direct Energy, and a newer supplier, Energy.Me. Ananta did pursue Liberty Power as a possible option, however, at that time we had more agreements in place from companies like Constellation, Ameren Energy Marketing ( now Dynegy), Champion Energy, Nordic Energy, Bluestar Energy (now AEP Energy), etc.

It is difficult to see any energy company File Chapter 11: Bankruptcy, but to see Liberty Power filing for bankruptcy raises some questions.

When you navigate to this link on Liberty Power's website , the page begins with the following message:

“Liberty Power Remains Open and Continues to Service Customers Across Entire Footprint.”

Business as usual, right?

However, Liberty Power has notified one of our newest clients that they have recently filed for bankruptcy and due to that ruling, they are required to terminate their existing energy contracts. The message dives into great detail about why they’ve filed for bankruptcy.

In their frequently asked questions (FAQs) section, they do mention terminating their remaining energy contracts and switching their clients automatically to a Provider of Last Resort (POLR,) in the event their clients do not pick a new supplier.

Please read carefully as this has gone into effect. If you’re a Liberty Power customer who’s energy contract is being terminated prematurely, please give us a call at 312-520-4220 or send us an email to info@goananta.com with your inquiry and we’ll have an associate you help you shop around for electricity rates.

Below you can read the email that was sent to one of our clients:

IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING YOUR ELECTRICITY SUPPLY PLAN

This email will be followed by a mailed notice with account specific details.

Account Name: ABC Company, LLC

Dear ______,

At Liberty Power, we appreciate your business and have enjoyed serving as your retail electricity supplier. As you are likely aware, Liberty Power Holdings, LLC and its subsidiaries filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy on April 20, 2021 and June 4, 2021 respectively. This notice is to inform you that the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Florida, overseeing the Liberty Power bankruptcy proceedings has entered an order effectively ending your contract with Liberty Power. This means your electric supply service from Liberty Power will be ending and your service will be assumed by your designated Provider of Last Resort (POLR).

What Happened?

In February, an unprecedented winter storm in Texas caused market prices to rise to extremely high levels. Liberty Power’s fixed rates did what they were designed to do – protect customers from spikes in wholesale market rates – but by protecting its customers, Liberty Power and its subsidiaries took on substantial financial losses and ultimately declared bankruptcy in April and June 2021, respectively. As a result, Liberty Power can no longer provide electricity supply to customers in that region.

What to Expect Now

Don’t worry. There will be no interruption of your electric service because of this issue. Liberty Power will no longer be your Retail Electricity Provider (REP) and will not provide your electricity supply. Your existing agreement with Liberty Power is now ending (without any additional costs to you); this is in accordance with a ruling from the United States Bankruptcy Court. Also by regulation, you will be transitioned to the designated POLR provider in your service area on their default supply rates. You will receive a separate notice from your assigned POLR provider that will disclose your exact service start date.

For More Information

If you have questions about your current service with Liberty Power, please call 1-866-769-3799, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., or email customercare@libertypowercorp.com. You can also contact the Public Utility Commission of Texas (PUCT) toll-free at 1-888-782-8477, or via email at customer@puc.state.tx.us.

Sincerely,

Liberty Power Holdings, LLC

Frequently Asked Questions of Liberty Power Customers

Q1: Do I need to do anything on my end?

A1: No. There is no action you need to take. The transition to your POLR providers supply service will be automatic, unless you elect to choose another supplier.

Q2: What if I want to switch to a new, alternative retail energy supplier instead of POLR?

A2: You still have the ability to move away from the default POLR program by choosing a competitive product or service offered by the POLR provider or another competitive Retail Electric Provider (REP). If you would like to see offers from different retail electric providers, please access www.powertochoose.org , or call toll-free 1-866-PWR-4-TEX (1-866-797-4839) for a list of providers in your area. You may accelerate the switch to a new REP by asking for a special out-of-cycle meter read.

Q3: Will I experience any interruption in my electricity service with the transition?

A3: No. The transition to your assigned POLR provider will not cause any service interruptions.

Q4: What will happen to my current pricing plan with Liberty Power?

A4: Your plan with Liberty Power is being cancelled. As a result, your POLR provider will set new pricing.

Q5: Will I owe anything to Liberty Power?

A5: Yes, you will be charged for service provided through the date of transfer. These charges will be presented on your final invoice subsequent to transition. Liberty Power will pursue any unpaid charges which may result in your account bring reported to consumer reporting agencies.

Q6: How do I make my final payment to Liberty Power?

A6: There is no need to do anything differently. Your last invoice and any payments for your remaining balance for your Liberty Power account can be made in the same manner you have used to pay your previous invoices.

Q7: What happens to the deposit I had with Liberty Power?

A7: Deposits will first be applied to any outstanding balances owed on your account. Liberty Power will then refund any remaining deposit to you within seven (7) days of your account being transferred to the assigned POLR provider.

Q8: What happens to the credit balance I had with Liberty Power?

A8: Once outstanding balances are settled, Liberty Power will refund your credit balance to you after your account is transferred to your assigned POLR provider and your Liberty Power account has been closed.

Q9: What happens to any loyalty or reward programs I was on?

A9: Liberty Power’s reward programs have been canceled. You will still have the ability to redeem your rewards points however you will no longer accumulate new rewards points.

What is Backwardation?

Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:52:39 GMT

Understanding Backwardation

Normally we use terms like spot price to describe the contract of buying or selling a commodity, security or currency for an immediate settlement.

However, sometimes futures prices will be lower than the current day’s spot price, meaning the current price may be too high and the spot price may begin to fall in the future. This is an example of backwardation.

In this example, where futures contracts may be lower than the current spot price, traders will often try to sell their assets short at their spot price and then buy futures contracts for a profit. Typically this is a major signal that the current market prices are too high.

In the chart below, the spot price is above the future price which generates a downward sloping curve, which is an example of backwardation.

When it comes to natural gas futures, the main cause of backwardation is a shortage in the spot market.

Backwardation vs. Contango

Now that we’ve defined what a downward sloping forward curve means, what does it mean when you see an upward sloping forward curve?

This opposite curve is called contango , which means the spot price is lower than the futures price.

A futures market can shift between contango and backwardation and remain in either state for a short or extended period.

3 Types of Energy Scams and How to Avoid Them

Wed, 08 Jun 2022 17:27:45 GMT

3 Utility Scams to Look Out For

Each year, energy utility scams slap vulnerable small businesses with hundreds of thousands of dollars in unforeseen utility charges. Each using different strategies to convince business owners and consumers to pay more or give up sensitive information. In order to protect yourself against utility scams it is important to be educated about what scams are out there.

A scammer is usually an uninvited stranger acting as a worker from your utility provider or your current energy supplier. Sometimes they will even pretend to be an energy broker. Their main goal is to retrieve private information from you so that they can scam you into a contract that can hurt you and your business. More often than not, they start by informing you that you're behind on your bill or that you need to pay for some electricity service they performed at your property, all of which is not true, or valid. To take things further, sometimes they will tell you that if you do not pay now, this bill will result in your power being cut off.

Imposter scams can come in many forms, including over the phone, in-person/door-to-door sales agents, and through email.

Utility Scam 1: Phone scam

With a phone scam a business owner will receive a phone call from a person claiming to be calling on behalf of either, your local utility company, your current energy supplier, or your current energy broker. They will introduce themselves and typically follow up with a time-sensitive message.

Here are some things to listen for:

“We noticed that you are overdue a payment on your utility bill. I am calling to let you know that our service will be shut off if you do not submit a payment today.”
“There’s a recent rate hike in your utility. To opt out and apply for a discount, please obtain a copy of your bill, so I can show you the next steps.”
“There’s a recent rate hike. To sign up for discounts, please send me your fax, or email information, so I can send you a letter to sign off on. This letter will allow me to shop around and protect your accounts from any rate increases.”
“Hello, I am calling to let you know that your current utility plan is expiring. It is my job to call you and make sure you sign up for a low rate prior to your contract termination.”

A scammer will very often be pushy and so convincing that you may be scared into paying them money directly, or even worse, providing them information that can turned into a disaster of an energy contract.

Utility Scam 2: In-Person

Sometimes you will get an actual in-person visit from an uninvited person who is claiming to be acting on behalf of either, your utility company, your energy provider, or your energy broker.

A classic example of an in-person scam involves an uninvited person showing up at your door. They will say something like:

“You're behind on your bill, may I "inspect" your business (or home?)

This person may ask for payment for something they “fixed.” In-person scammers will try to take your money and acquire information from your utility bill. Sometimes they will be aggressive and pressure you into signing routine documents. These documents usually end up being permission slips to shop energy rates on your behalf.

Utility Scam 3: Email Scam (Phishing)

One very common scam is the email scam, or phishing . Much like the other scams, this is a fraudulent email that appears to have been sent from your utility company, energy supplier, or energy broker. It often states that your bill is overdue, that there's an error on your account, or that your billing information needs to be updated.

After the “issue” with your bill is explained, the email may ask you to follow a link and enter sensitive information like your legal entity, account number, and address. Email scams can result in malware being downloaded and installed unintentionally, which can extract sensitive information right from your computer.

Additionally, business owners should be on the lookout for emails requesting an electronic signature via mediums like DocuSign, or Adobe Sign. Please use caution when signing any e-signature prompt.

How To Protect Yourself From Utility Imposter Scams

One of the safest ways to protect yourself from an energy scam is by going to your utility provider's website and logging into your account.

There you can view all of your plans, payment schedule, and find other information about your bill. It is extremely important that you as the business owner, or general manager, are trained on the latest utility scams. It is equally as important for your staff to be trained as well.

Here are a few other things to keep in mind:

Your utility will never shut off your service for no reason.
Scammers will ask for wire transfer, gift cards or prepaid cards. Do not give these to them.
Don't let an unidentified utility worker on your property. If someone does show up on your property, ask to see their identification and call your utility company immediately.

If something does not feel right, it probably isn't. Contacting a transparent energy broker like Ananta Energy will put you and your business in the driver’s seat. With our open-book pricing model we ensure you are always receiving the best rates possible.

Illinois ComEd Residential and Business Prices to Compare to Rise 40%

Mon, 23 May 2022 17:35:02 GMT

Commonwealth Edison Prices to Compare 2022

According to recent report from Energy Choice Matters, Commonwealth Edison electricity prices to compare for residential and small commercial customers will increase 41% on June 1.

New Purchased Electricity Charges (PECs) and PJM Services Charges (PSCs) have been filed by ComEd for June 1, 2022. Typically the new PECs are announced in the month of April, but a supplemental block energy procurement was conducted for summer 2022, and ComEd has filed new PECs reflecting that procurement after the results were approved by the ICC last week.

ComEd's residential price to compare will be 11.041 cents per kWh for the period June through September 2022, 41% higher than the current residential PTC of 7.809 cents per kWh.

ComEd's Watt-hour Non-Electric Space Heating price to compare will be 11.094 cents per kWh for the period June through September 2022. That's 41% higher than the current PTC of 7.844 cents per kWh.

ComEd Purchased Electricity Charges (PECs) are below. Note that the listed non-summer PECs are indicative, and rates may be updated depending on any fall 2022 procurement event conducted by the Illinois Power Agency.

From the EnergyChoiceMatters website:

ComEd Rate Increase in Summer 2022

To summarize this year's ComEd rate increase, effective June 2022, both residential and small to medium-sized businesses in Illinois will see a large energy rate hike on their ComEd electricity bills. Whether you are located in the city of Chicago, or located in a suburb of Illinois that pays an electricity bill to Commonwealth Edison, this June 2022 you will see a big rate hike that ranges from $.08-$.11, so we are talking about a 40% rate hike and just your energy supply charge rate.

In fact, below are images of electricity bills from a carwash located in Elgin, IL. from the month of May and the month of June. When you calculate the rates for each month you will notice a large increase. Unfortunately this increase is here to stay through May 2023.

May 2022 Electricity Bill

June 2022 Electricity Bill

These new ComEd rates are normally set for both residential and small to medium size businesses for a 12 month window, and then reset during an auction that takes place between the Illinois utility commission (ICC) and Illinois Power Agency .

Auctions, and or discussions of auctions for next year are already taking place. However, with how volatile the energy market has been recently, there are several challenges in planning for these actions.

If your business is in Illinois, you may be affected by these changes. If you are in need of energy procurement service please contact us.

U.S. Natural Gas Output Demand to Rise in 2022

Tue, 10 May 2022 18:51:44 GMT

The Demand for Natural Gas Production Rises

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration's Short Term Energy Outlook, U.S. natural gas production and demand will both rise in 2022 as the economy grows. Also included in the report is that the EIA projects that dry gas production will rise to 96.71 billion cubic feet per day (bcfd) in 2022 and 101.71 bcfd in 2023 from a record 93.55 bcfd in 2021.

Another projection mentions that gas consumption would rise from 82.97 in 2021 to 85.73 bcfd in 2022 before sliding to 85.28 bcfd in 2023. That compares with a record 85.29 bcfd in 2019.

The EIA predicts that U.S. coal production would rise to 598 million short tons in 2022 and 605 million short tons in 2023 from 578 million short tons in 2021 as power plants burn more coal due to an expected rise in gas prices. However, also noted was that in 2020, coal output fell to 535 million short tons, its lowest since 1965.

What does this mean for businesses?

Businesses Should Plan Now to Beat Energy Market Volatility

With the energy market so volatile businesses should be looking closely at their energy procurement strategies.

In 2020, we saw a warm winter season paired with with lower demand through the pandemic, which brought us record low NG prices. When 2021 rolled around, prices went up and we saw a good amount of volatility in the energy market. Both years were great years to lock-in a lower rate.

Now that 2022 has come around, demand for energy has sharply risen, but supply has not seen as much as an increase. Coupled with decarbonization efforts and weather impacts on the power grid, and we have the mixings for expensive natural gas and electricity prices. Throw the Ukraine war on top of mix, it's hard to predict if we will see a sustained decrease in prices any time soon.

Is this the new normal?

7 Steps to A Procurement Process

Mon, 09 May 2022 20:14:22 GMT

Creating a Procurement Process for Your Business

For many businesses to operate effectively and efficiently, they must procure goods and services from various suppliers. Making a procurement process an integral part of any organization. With so much at stake, creating a strategic sourcing process is a must.

For an effective procurement and strategic sourcing process to be successful, it must help a company save costs, aid in compliance, and ensure it works with reputable suppliers. Another important advantage of having a procurement sourcing strategy is that it gives an organization the ability to create and achieve sustainability and environmental goals, such as reducing environmental impact.

The following steps can be used to start your procurement process.

Step 1: What Are You Procuring?

The first thing you want to do is figure out what your goal is, and what exactly you need to source in order to achieve that goal. What is your procurement cycle? Once your goal is set, you will then be able to begin shopping for your supplier.

Step 2: Supply Market Analysis

Before choosing your supplier, you will need to determine your purchasing power and determine what strategy will best fit your needs.

Step 3: Develop a Strategic Sourcing Strategy

Knowing how and where to find the best suppliers is essential. When selecting a supplier pool, you should consider suppliers you have worked in the past, and ones that are new potentials. You will want to supply each supplier with your requirements and goals.

Step 4: Select The Strategic Sourcing Process

Once your requirements are defined it’s time to send out some bids, typically in the form of RFP's. These request for proposals will outline the details. such as the product or service specifications, requirements, pricing breakdown, legal and financial terms and conditions, etc.

Step 5: Negotiate with and Select Suppliers

Once your proposals start coming in, it is time to start narrowing down the list of suppliers and asking the right questions to negotiate the best terms.

Step 6: Implementation and Integration

Once you have negotiated your terms, it is time to make sure you notify your winning suppliers. Your organization should begin to integrate your chosen suppliers into everyday discussions and procedures, making sure they’re up-to-date on the most recent changes and updates.

Step 7: Benchmarking

To ensure sustained success, it is very important to measure the supplier’s performance over time. You will want to start with recording the current status of your company before signing on with a new supplier, and you will want to continue monitoring results periodically.

Ananta Energy Source Electricity and Natural Gas Procurement Service

Stay competitive in the market with Ananta Energy’s open-book energy procurement solutions and start saving on your energy bills.

The U.S. Ends Winter With Lowest Natural Gas In Storage in Years

Wed, 20 Apr 2022 03:28:27 GMT

U.S. Natural Gas in Storage Hits Another Low Point

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, Natural Gas Monthly and Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report , 2022 has seen an increase in demand for natural gas as Americans looked to keep themselves warm and heated through this past winter, which has resulted in larger amounts of withdrawals from U.S. natural gas storages. This is not typical for most winters, and by the end of March, the least amount of natural gas was kept in U.S underground storage since 2019.

There were varying factors which caused a shortage in natural gas in storage. For starters, in January, temperatures across the entire country were much more frigid than normal. These cooling temperatures caused an increase in residential, commercial, and electric power demand for natural gas. An increase in heating demand and record-high liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports resulted in above-average withdrawals from working natural gas storage despite the increase in natural gas production.

Furthermore, working natural gas in underground storage facilities in the Lower 48 states totaled 1,387 billion cubic feet (Bcf) as of March 31, 2022, bringing inventories down 17% lower than the previous five-year average (2017–21) for that time of year, according to the Weekly Natural Gas Storage Report.

Working gas is the volume of natural gas in the storage reservoir that can be extracted during the normal operation of the storage facility. This is the natural gas that is being stored and withdrawn.

Are you feeling the impact of the increased demand of natural gas? Contact us now to discuss your business needs.

What Is An Ampere?

Wed, 30 Mar 2022 00:40:52 GMT

What is An Ampere in Electricity?

Have you ever heard the word “Amp” and wondered what it meant? Amp is the shortened version of Ampere , a SI unit to measure electric current, named after André-Marie Ampère. André was a French physicist, mathematician, and one of the founding principals of electromagnetism. André brought electrodynamics and science education to light during the French Enlightenment, in the 18th century. This included discovering Ampere’s Force Law, which is a theory in electrodynamics that explains attraction or resistance between two wires or circuits that contain electric current.

An electric current is a flow or stream of electrical charge within a circuit. To describe an electrical current, you may think of it as the reaction that occurs as well as the number of electrons that flow, when electricity travels through a wire to bring power from point A to point B. Electric currents typically travel through the wiring of some sort, to use common products like charging mechanisms, appliances, or essentially any type of product that has a cord and needs to be plugged in to be used.

You may have noticed that certain household electric-using products have a specific wattage application necessary to actually work, such as a light bulb. To break this down further, amps refer to the amount of electricity used by a product, while volts are the actual measurements of the force of that electricity. Multiplying the two would give you the workload, or total wattage of the product. A watt is calculated by multiplying amps by volts.

Watts = Amps * Volts

120 Watts = 1 Amp * 120 Volts

By checking your home circuit breaker box, you can determine what amperage rating your household circuit has. Most homes in the United States are wired with a circuit of 120-volts and most use 15-amp receptacles or 20-amp circuits for larger household appliances such as dishwashers, refrigerators, freezers, washers, and dryers.

Battery banks can be helpful in times of electric outages, as they offer electricity if primary sources aren’t available. They are rated for a specific quantity of amp-hours. Amp-hours (Ah or amp hr) are used to define how much amperage can be provided by a battery within one hour. The rating is usually categorized and measured in milli-amp hours or mAh. The amp hour rating can usually be found on deep cycle batteries and the measured quantity refers to the battery capacity.

There are a couple of ways to measure amperage or electricity within a circuit. One method would be to use an ammeter . Typically, an ammeter uses a voltmeter, has a small area of application within a circuit, and measures resistance within that circuit. It’s not used to test transistors or diodes. Alternatively, a multimeter is used to measure more in-depth information and parameters within an electrical circuit as well as multiple electrical properties. They can be used to test transistors and diodes and can be used to substitute an ammeter. Ammeters, however, cannot substitute multimeters as they are only used to read an amp measurement.

We hope this helps you understand more about amps and how they came to be as well as how and why they are used.

How Much Does a Home Wind Turbine Cost?

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 22:47:33 GMT

Let' s Take A Look at The Cost of A Home Wind Turbine

How energy is being produced is a topic that is wildly important today, as most of the energy produced in the world depends on the burning of fossil fuels, which leads to environmental damage and pollution.

Renewable energy resources such as wind and solar options are becoming more prevalent and popular, as many landowners are trying their best to address the issue of non-renewable resources and finding cleaner options to produce and utilize energy. According to the 2021 Edition of Wind Market Reports by Energy.gov, wind energy was one of the largest electric-generating capacity sources in the United States, in 2020.

One option that is becoming more popular recently, is installing wind turbines and this can be done either on residential or commercial properties, however, the costs may vary depending on how much energy is needed and how much space needs to be covered.

Wind energy systems have evolved greatly since the first options that were available for purchase, back in the day. Today, DIY power generator home kits are available for homeowners to purchase from some of the big-name retailers like Home Depo t or through local energy programs, offered by local utility companies. It’s good to note that, finding a credited professional to perform installations can be beneficial for both the installation itself and at times, certain clean-energy incentives can be offered through professional programs.

In the United States, small wind turbines can be used for residential or off-grid projects. These small wind turbines can cost between $3000 and $5000, per kilowatt of energy capacity, which comes to around $15,000 and $75,000 for expected installation project costs, according to the ACP (American Clean Power Association).

Factors that Affect the Cost of Home Wind Turbines:

Wind turbine’s capacity (estimated power output kW)
Quality of the unit and producing capabilities
Windspeed is required for the unit to properly function (arguably one of the most important factors)
Type of the turbine (horizontal or vertical axis)
Size of the turbine (check this link on hub height, rotor diameter, and nameplate capacity)
Installation costs

With all of the above factors being said, the wind turbine project is unique and pricing can only be indicative based on the unique circumstances of the factors above.

Although wind turbines can be more environmentally friendly and a great investment for the long term, it’s also important to consider how much wind is actually produced at the location in which a wind turbine is being planned for. These wind maps can help assess the local average wind speeds of recent months and once that is taken into account, building codes and regulations must additionally be considered to take on such a project.

If all of the above is considered and a wind-powered turbine is still in the cards, but still wouldn’t be enough power to produce enough electricity for the entire location, adding solar energy to the mix can help cover all the bases. Again, the upfront investment of these cleaner energy-producing systems can be steep, but over time can really pay off and help move toward a healthier and cleaner environment. Direct Energy advises on a few ways to bring the two options together or their advantages and disadvantages, separately in this article .

As we progress toward cleaner and renewable options for energy, Ananta can help you understand if solar programs are available in your area. Contact us today!

What are Crude Oil Futures?

Mon, 14 Mar 2022 00:14:51 GMT

What is Crude Oil Futures Trading?

Crude Oil is a raw fossil fuel and a limited and non-renewable resource that naturally occurs when extracted from the earth and processed into usable, usually petroleum-based, commodities. Products such as diesel, jet fuel, gasoline, heating fuel, and other petrochemicals are produced by the process of refining crude oil.

Demand for crude oil generally correlates with seasons that are affected by fluctuations in weather. The commodity pricing can also be directly affected by geopolitical triggers such as unrest in oil-producing countries, which may cause pricing to surge or increase quickly. The impact of the United States’ ban on Russian oil and natural gas imports as a result of the Russian - Ukrainian tensions that are currently present, is and will continue to trigger high oil prices until the unrest is settled and there will likely still be residual effects to be experienced afterward.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)--In the United States, crude oil prices have increased steadily since the spring season of 2020, and are forecasted to remain elevated, to reach projected record-high production levels next year (2023). Click here for visuals and more specific information about EIA’s Short-Term Energy Outlook and related information about increasing crude oil prices.

The trading market for crude oil is one of the most active in the trading sector and is well known to futures day traders worldwide. This specific market is also very active, complex, and volatile, which means day traders that follow crude oil futures trading must be well educated about the topic and experienced with understanding the ins and outs of the futures market. Crude oil trends tend to track similarly to stock market trends, but the futures market is open 24 hours a day, which allows stock traders to have an idea of what stock pricing will look like when the stock market opens each morning.

This brings to question– what is the difference between trading futures and trading stocks? Trading futures is not the same as trading stocks, as trading futures usually requires a large investment of starting capital and a specialized account to trade in the market and represents a commitment to sell/buy at a price that’s agreed upon, while trading stocks does not always or typically require any large initial investment upfront and represents ownership of part of a corporation.

Now that we’ve covered crude oil futures trading, you may be considering what other investment options there are available, to become more involved with the crude oil industry. Getting involved with investing in or buying oil stocks is another potentially lucrative path to consider in this realm, as once the concept is thoroughly understood and practiced over and over again, it can be a very effective strategy.

Investing in oil stocks directly is not typically a very straightforward approach, however, a path that requires less risk, such as buying equities in oil companies, can still be manageable with thorough research and an evaluation of commonalities/differences between companies and their potential pros and cons. This article by NerdWallet breaks down the differences between some of the major categories of oil stocks and the differences between them.

We hope this helps you learn about crude oil and different ways to invest in this market.

Utility Bills Soaring In Philadelphia

Thu, 10 Mar 2022 18:53:55 GMT

Businesses In Philadelphia Face Utility Rate Increase

PECO , Philadelphia’s largest natural gas and electric utility, has been getting quite a bit of attention in the PA energy news sector lately, as electric and natural gas customers are seeing an intense increase in their monthly invoices, compared to previous years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , households in the Philadelphia area paid 17.2 cents per kilowatt-hour on average of electricity, in the month of January 2022. Gas pricing has not been this high since the polar vortex of 2014.

7 other Pennsylvania electric utilities also increased their energy prices as of December 1, 2021. Each utility has a unique plan that the PUC regulates, in order to procure energy from power generation plants. This is why the rates can vary by utility.

Natural gas prices, globally, have increased in this most recent year and have directly impacted pricing for energy and gas commodities. The demand and consumption for these commodities are also on the rise, while the economy is booming again, post-pandemic. Even with the 7.5% inflation rate , many customers in Philadelphia have recently seen higher increases than that on their utility bills. Although these increases affect all of the US, PA has seen some of the most dramatic increases overall.

According to this article from th e Philadelphia Inquirer , PGS (Philadelphia Gas Works) has seen an increase of 56% in gas prices in the last year, while PECO prices have raised by 67% in the last year.

The sharp increases in pricing as a result of both the rise of demand and the Covid-19 pandemic, have many PECO (and other PA utilities) facing financial difficulties and have made prevalent the need for resources to assist in paying utility bills.

The Pennsylvania Homeowner Assistance Fund (PAHAF) is one of the federally funded assistance programs for homeowners that are struggling to make their payments. This fund is known as grant funding and the assistance is capped, at 24 months or $3,000, if the customer is eligible.

If you are a PA electric and/or natural gas customer that is experiencing financial hardship, click here to see PUC’s Utility Assistance Programs, to check requirements and apply for help.

PGW (Philadelphia Gas Works) also filed a request on March 01, 2022, to the PUC (PA Public Utility Commission) to adjust the Gas Cost Rate (GCR) for residential customers to be slightly lower, starting September 01, 2022. This request has not yet been approved, but for reference would adjust from $5.6123 to $5.6048/Mcf. The GCR rate is calculated quarterly and refers to the supply charge on a PA invoice.

So you may be wondering, is there a way to prevent the price spikes from a volatile period of time in the market and protect yourself from unexpected and expensive utility bills? The answer is Yes if your service location is located in a deregulated energy market, you can protect yourself from market fluctuations and lock in on a fixed rate. Being in a deregulated energy market allows for you to shop for your energy and you have a choice in if you’d rather stay with the local utility or hedge an agreement with a fixed, all-in rate for the term of your agreement.

This doesn’t always equal paying less, however, if you’ve noticed over the course of the previous year, how high prices have jumped, and you want peace of mind of a rate that won’t change when the market does. It’s not always an easy process to undergo shopping for your own plan, but Ananta Energy Source can help you understand your situation and shop for your energy needs. Contact us, here !

What is Energy Poverty And The Reasons Behind It

Wed, 09 Mar 2022 02:43:04 GMT

Energy Poverty. Is There An End?

Energy Poverty is defined as the lack of access to modern electric sources and/or the usability of traditional energy sources, to support development.

To further clarify, energy resources that are not accessible equally worldwide are limited in countries that also may be experiencing financial poverty, however, the two may or may not be completely synonymous. This makes it challenging for people to access reliable, adequate, and safe sources of energy and also stunts the growth and development of society and the environment in certain countries.

What Are the Reasons Behind Energy Poverty and How Are They Caused?

Lack of access to clean energy sources for cooking in their households causes indoor and 2nd hand outdoor air pollution.
Globally, 4 out of 10 people or 40% don’t have accessible clean fuels for cooking.
Toxic chemicals are released into the air when using certain times of fuels (like charcoal, coal, crop waste, wood, biomasses, etc.) and can deeply pollute the air of those that are cooking and breathing in that area.
Using wood as an energy source also leads to environmental and forest degradation.
Low Total Household Income.
Electricity, especially clean energy, is not affordable for many in lesser developed countries, and this, in turn, leads to using of more use of unhealthy fuel sources in low-income households, which leads to health deterioration or poor health.
The high and rising cost of living and energy prices.
The cost of living steadily increases, as the gap increases between income and expenditures. Prioritizing immediate financial needs over searching for alternative methods of energy use can make it difficult to keep up with strategizing healthier energy use methods.
Mismatch in service location energy requirements versus availability and access to resources in those areas.

How Are We Reversing Energy Poverty?

Corporations such as The Rockefeller Foundation are aiming to end energy poverty, with the use of modern technology energy systems and leveraging decentralized renewable energy to help protect more vulnerable populations.
Incorporating solar energy in areas of poverty, can help reduce air pollution, toxic fuel emissions, and health risks overall. Being that solar is renewable and a clean-energy resource, can help alleviate poverty in a sustainable way. This article by Global Citizen addresses how renewable energy options can play a key role in reducing poverty as a whole.
Striving toward significant investments toward improving energy efficiency on a systematic scale. The United Nationals Department of Economic and Social Affairs highlights the importance of energy efficiency reform and how action toward climate change and renewable energy generation could change the world. Check out their article here.

Reserve Margin - Texas Electricity Rate Increase

Wed, 02 Mar 2022 14:50:02 GMT

What is a Reserve Margin?

Have you heard of the term “reserve margin”? This energy-related term refers to the amount of power generation capacity available, opposed to the amount of power demand that’s expected. ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) manages the power/electric grid for most of Texas and reserve margin is used to plan, prepare, and assess upcoming supply and demand strategies.

For example, the reserve margin that’s typically used by Texas’ ERCOT to ensure reliability is right around 13.75%--meaning 13.75% more power generation capacity is available than the expected demand. This gives a bit of a buffer when weather conditions don’t pan out as expected or other unique reasons for when demand could be higher than normal/average business flow.

Based on ERCOT’s most recent CDR (Capacity, Demand, and Reserves) report that was published in December 2021, the following percentages for reserve margins for summer are predicted in the upcoming summer and following years (page 13)::

Summer 2022 - 23.9%

Summer 2023 - 39.4%

Summer 2024 - 41.7%

Summer 2025 - 40.3%

Summer 2026 - 38.7%

The report also includes predictions for the following years, up to 2031.

So you may be wondering, how are Texas electricity prices affected by reserve margin forecasts. Essentially, the projections that are made on the CDR report directly affect how trading occurs for wholesale energy in the open/deregulated markets. ERCOT has stated that this summer, Texas customers will experience record-increases in electric pricing, with the change of weather during the heat of summer.

Third-party electricity retail suppliers take all of this into account, while presenting pricing for their brokers, or directly to the client. Suppliers must decide how much power to purchase or hedge in advance and the quantity of electricity they would want to purchase in the open market.

After Winter Storm Uri hit in 2021, new laws and legislations were put into place after pitfalls in Texas’s power grid were exposed and Governor Greg Abbott took action toward reducing the risk of potential similar devastating situations. Market rate caps on ancillary services and the wholesale electricity market were also affected by these regulation changes, making the shopping process a bit more complicated than in the past.

What’s the best plan of action that Texas electricity customers can take, to prepare for the seasonal change and Texas electricity rate increases ? Lock in on a fixed-rate all-inclusive contract for peace of mind and to protect themselves from weather and market volatility. Fixed-rate contracts supply charge does not fluctuate and isn’t impacted by weather volatility or variability, so it’s always best to lock in early. There are short term to long term options available and you don’t have to figure it out on your own.

Ananta Energy Source is a trusted procurement company that assists in the shopping process for hedging your agreements and protecting you from volatile conditions that may affect your energy rates. Let us help you by contacting us here .

New Jersey Businesses Must Pay Energy Bills or Lose Services

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 16:20:58 GMT

New Jersey Warns Businesses of Energy Bill Payments

The Winter season, along with unprecedented times of the pandemic, has truly brought about a financial conundrum for many in the New Jersey area. Governor Phil Murphy signed an extension grace period moratorium (S4081) to begin on December 31, 2021, through March 15, 2022, that was already twice extended, preventing NJ utilities from shutting off municipal utilities, water, and sewer services during this time of financial hardship for many.

Under Executive Order #246, all utilities were also required to offer additional provisions–such as an interest-free payment plan, with no down payment required, and that would last for a duration of 12 months.

As that time is rapidly approaching, New Jersey residents and business owners are faced with the harsh reality that time is running out with this grace period and they will soon need to pay what they owe on their utility bills or risk having their utilities shut off, as a normal business procedure in pre-pandemic times.

Come March 15, 2022– Collections will begin to resume normal collections-related activities and this should prompt New Jersey customers who are behind on their bills to reach out to their local utilities and inquire about payment plans and options for assistance. This is no surprise and customers should have been receiving updates via mail and other multimedia communications, to help prepare for the change.

There are normal processes and procedures when it comes time to shut off any customer’s natural gas or electric service. It does not happen automatically and certain checks and balances must be required before processing a turn-off. A utility company representative also must travel to the actual location of where the service would be turned off to speak with the owner (or whoever makes payments on their utility bills) to ensure that they are aware and what else needs to be done at that time.

Although this change is certain to affect many with the choices they will be needing to make in the near future, New Jersey key spokespersons are doing everything they can to reach out to and assist customers that need help during this difficult time. See below for links on if you or someone you know needs assistance with the upcoming change.

NJ BPU (New Jersey Board of Public Utilities) Utility Assistance Programs
NJPOWERON - an Affordable Housing Alliance and a private, non-profit organization
DCAid - The Universal Service Fund is able to help certain income-eligible customers with their bills, by issuing monthly bill credits, if eligible.

We hope this information helps you or someone you know, prepare for the upcoming change. Reach out to us at Ananta by clicking here and filling out the form. We specialize in energy procurement and could potentially find opportunities for you to lower your monthly utility bills, by choosing to shop for a fixed, all-in, energy plan with one of our trusted third-party energy suppliers .

Texas Commercial Electricity Rate Changes

Mon, 28 Feb 2022 16:30:43 GMT

Texas Businesses Will Experience Electricity Rate Increases

These charges are being applied to financially support ERCOT to get up to $3 billion in funds to help stabilize the wholesale market as a response to Winter Storm Uri. These price changes are something we can't control as your broker unfortunately. However, our energy consultant team is paying close attention to what effect these changes will have on your business and will be here for any of your questions and concerns.

Two types of charges added to your bill:

Default Securitization Charge 2 : a non-bypassable charge that is effective in January 2022.

Uplift Securitization Charge 3 : a non-bypassable charge, which will be effective in early Q2 2022.

How does it affect your business?

According to Direct Energy in a recent notice:

• Securitization : Securitization charges are brand new charges associated with serving customers in Texas and therefore we will be passing these charges through to all customers.

• Ancillary services obligation increase : If your agreement includes ancillary services as part of your energy price or as part of an adder, we will be passing through the difference between the cost of ancillaries that was built into your price or adder and the new increased cost to procure ancillary services on your behalf.** If your agreement passes ancillary services through, you may notice an increase in that line item.

What do I do from here?:

Unfortunately, there's not much any of us can do when it comes to the government changing the law and imposing state wide increases. Even though every supplier we work with locks in and will fix your rate for you, they each have a “governing change in law,” clause that allows them to increase their costs if the government decides to change laws regarding rates.

What we can do to help you is again, be here to answer questions or concerns you may have. Every supplier seems to be handling this change in law differently. As we learn of these differences, we will be making posts to inform you. For more questions on these increases and tariff changes, please feel free to contact your energy broker at Ananta, or contact us directly at info@goananta.com .

ComEd Partners with Sunverge on Residential Battery Energy Storage

Thu, 24 Feb 2022 17:40:56 GMT

ComE d Partners with Sunverge (Illinois) to Boost Feeder-Level System Efficiency and Accuracy

Ananta Energy Newsflash:

ComEd has partnered with Sunverge on a new project that consists of a battery energy storage solution located at the front of the residential electric meter. This modern and innovative approach sets itself apart from typical residential battery storage applications that use more traditional solutions for data collection on the distribution-level grid by integrating with SCADA utility distribution. SCADA is a software system that allows for better monitoring or controlling of nearby or remote systems.

These new systems will not be placed on the customer’s actual premise, but in front of the residence’s meter, which will allow the grid systems to capture and confirm usage values for grid-based planning and operations. The integration of this new method for residential customers has a goal of completion by the end of 2022.

The goal of this project is to reduce how frequently residential customers may experience power outages, reliability of their energy flow data, intelligent power data management, and better energy control overall.

What is Carbon-Free Energy, Carbon Neutral, and Decarbonization?

Tue, 22 Feb 2022 17:53:49 GMT

Carbon Reduction Towards a Healthier Planet

You’ve likely heard one, two, or maybe even all of these terms below, as the world is facing an intense crisis of climate change.

Climate change is affecting human health, the environment, and the economy faster than many realize and much of the impact comes from carbon emissions. Active efforts towards transforming the way energy is produced in a cleaner and more sustainable fashion are being put into action.

Let’s dive into some Carbon energy terms:

What is Carbon-Free Electricity?

Carbon-free Electricity comes from clean energy producing methods that do not use fossil fuels or produce carbon emissions. Examples would be electricity from wind and solar sources. Ananta may be able to assist with your solar needs here .

What is Carbon Neutral?

Carbon Neutral is a policy that focuses on not increasing carbon emissions, while reducing them through offsetting. It means that the amount of C02 being released is equal to the amount being absorbed by the atmosphere.

What is Net-Zero?

Net Zero also refers to offsetting emissions, but at a global scale, and includes all greenhouse gases–not only Carbon Dioxide. The process is when the amount of carbon emissions released by producing energy are offset by the amount removed in the atmosphere by making changes. No more carbon emissions are released than what are taken away, meaning that it leaves the amount at 0 or neutral.

Dig deeper into the difference between Carbon Neutrality and Net-Zero Carbon, here .

Climate Negative Vs. Climate Positive

Climate Negative and climate positive are actually interchangeable which can be confusing. Nevertheless, the goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and both mean removing even more carbon dioxide than what would be required to achieve carbon neutrality, which is overall better for the environment and climate.

What Does Decarbonization Mean?

Decarbonization is the act of removing carbon emissions from the atmosphere. This article by The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine highlights technological, socio-economic, and policy goals to attain net-zero/carbon neutrality through decarbonization.

Companies Who Are Reducing Their Carbon Footprint

Many compan ies and corporations such as Google, Apple and Coca-Cola have begun to take drastic measures toward reducing their carbon footprint and taking action towards environmental sustainability and energy production. Forbes put together quite a large list of companies that are committed to working towards environmental sustainability and making a positive impact on the environment.

A greener future can also be worked towards with small, actionable steps. Check out this article by the Center for Climate and Energy Solutions , that gives an overview of how taking actionable steps can result in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. By using methods to find solutions based in nature and utilizing innovative technology, we are able to work toward decarbonization , a greener future, and a cleaner, healthier planet.

AHLA Safety Summit 2022

Fri, 18 Feb 2022 16:40:04 GMT

The 2022 AHLA Safety Summit in Washington D.C.

Every year the AHLA holds their signature Safety Summit event. This safety focused event welcomes safety and security experts from around the globe to discuss pressing concerns in the safety industry. Main topics that will be discussed will be:

The evolution of AHLA's Safe Stay
The future of AHLA's 5-Star Promise
Cybersecurity issues and precautions in today's interconnected world
Human trafficking prevention training through AHLA Foundation’s No Room for Trafficking

For those traveling in, the Grand Hyatt will have room blocks reserved for Safety Summit attendees from March 30, 2022 - April 1, 2022. The room rate is $329+ (at this time.) Reserve your room using Hyatt Group Booking . The group code will be G-AHL3.

To register for the Safety Summit click the button below.

This year's sponsors include the following companies:

The Grand Hyatt Washington

Grand Hyatt Washington is located in downtown Washington, D.C., conveniently in close proximity to the National Mall.

Check out our blog for some other events we love!

How to Switch Electricity Suppliers in Texas

Thu, 17 Feb 2022 02:30:11 GMT

Changing Your Electric Supplier in Texas?

Texas is the second-largest state in America and is comprised of the largest market in deregulated energy, making it a great place to consider switching your electricity suppliers. ERCOT–The Electric Reliability Council of Texas , manages Texas’s power grid. A unique fact about the deregulated energy market in Texas, is that electricity consumers must be signed on a supplier plan. In contrast, most other deregulated markets (Ananta’s main markets are Ohio and Illinois in this case) have the option of staying with their local utility, if they choose not to sign on with a supplier right away.

Deregulated energy is a fairly new and technical topic and Texas is more complex than some other deregulated markets, so we want to break it down into an easy step-by-step process of how to switch electricity suppliers in Texas.

A key factor before we dive into the details is that timing is of utmost importance for switching suppliers in Texa s. Most suppliers require an exact start and end date to flow supply of power and this is unique to Texas. Switching outside of the dates on any fixed agreement imposes the risk of potential early termination fees, overlaps, or being placed on a month-to-month variable default rate with a supplier, and all of those risks can cost exponentially more than being on a fixed-rate plan.

The best times to switch suppliers in Texas:

Right at the end of your current electricity contract.
Brokers (Hey, that’s us !) can also assist in the research, shopping, and tracking process, further in advance and are able to lock in fixed-rate, future-dated agreements if a desirable rate and term are found in advance.
If not tracking over time for a future-dated agreement well in advance, Is it recommended to pin down a plan to switch providers 14 days or less before your current supplier agreement ends.
Right before peak-demand seasons of Summer or Winter .
Typically, the market is volatile during seasons of unpredictable or often-changing weather conditions, so locking in with a fixed-rate supplier plan can protect you from high electric charges and rates during those times.
When relocating residential or business properties.
Usage may change and reviewing potential energy usage changes from one place to another, can help budget for your new electric consumption and help prepare for any changes in consumption rates.

What’s next?

Review which plan you’re currently on.
The cost to renew with your current supplier could benefit you, so nothing would change in terms of how you’re receiving your bills, communications with your supplier, and essentially–this makes the transition seamless.
To ensure you’re choosing the best option for your energy needs, it’s advisable to compare rates with other suppliers as well, but make sure you do your research on any changes that may occur if you choose to switch suppliers on your own.
Review the terms and conditions of each plan to compare anything that would be affected or changed from your current plan, so you can be prepared for the transition.
Ananta can help you shop with some of the top suppliers in the deregulated energy industry and make the process much easier overall!
Click here to see which suppliers we work with, in each state.
Shop early!
As mentioned above, future-dated plans can keep you on track to switch suppliers right on time and lock in a low rate, in advance.
We use your current contracted rate as a price-to-compare with rates that suppliers send us, so we can make the best possible recommendation for you, based on your unique energy needs.
Ensure a seamless transition from one agreement to the next.
Avoid a lapse in flow service or early termination fees , by ensuring that your new provider switches on the date or the day after your current agreement expiration date.
Your new supplier will notify the utility and previous agreement supplier of the change from there and will send you a confirmation of the change.

Now that you have a basic understanding of how to switch providers in Texas, use us as a resource if you have questions or would like assistance with your energy procurement needs.

Contact us if you have questions or email us at support@goananta.com with recent invoices for a complimentary invoice analysis!

Who is the Largest Carbon-Free Energy Producer in the U.S.?

Wed, 16 Feb 2022 02:03:56 GMT

What is Carbon-Free Energy?

Simply put, Carbon-free energy is the production of electricity in which no fossil fuels are used and zero carbon is emitted. Carbon-free energy sources include wind, solar, and nuclear energy. Many forward-thinking companies are moving in this direction.

The Biggest Carbon-Free Energy Producer

Constellation Energy recently announced on February 2nd, 2022, that they’ve separated from Exelon Corp. and began utilizing regular trading on the NASDAQ Global Select Market Composite (NQGS) under the trading symbol: CEG .

The nation’s largest carbon-free energy producer's mission is to provide the energy and services to transform our future and to take on the challenges of the climate crisis, head-on, by utilizing innovative technology and individualized offerings, to work towards a carbon-free economy.

Constellation Energy’s headquarters are located in Baltimore, MD and the nation’s largest clean-energy-focused company does not have any plan to relocate its headquarters. They do plan, however, to continue as a Fortune 200 company and the largest company/business in Greater Baltimore, as a competitive energy provider.

The difference between Constellation now and prior is that now, Constellation only services energy supply, while before– Constellation’s business was comprised of both energy supply and utilities. BGE (Baltimore Gas and Electric) , a subsidiary of Constellation was acquired directly by Exelon Corp , the largest utility company in the U.S., after the split between Exelon and Constellation, and the transition is set up to be seamless for customers.

Below, you’ll find Constellation’s strategy for moving forward and goals to respond to the current climate crisis:

Constellation Goals toward a carbon-free future (Source: Bloomberg )

By 2030, achieve 95% carbon-free electricity for the nation
By 2040, achieve 100% carbon-free electricity for the nation and a 100% reduction in operations-driven pollution and emissions
By 2040, eliminate all greenhouse gas emissions by utilizing multiple methods of modern technology and resources
Constellation will provide 100% of their business customers with individualized and custom data to help them understand and reduce their carbon footprints

For further details and facts on the separation of Constellation and Exelon, check out this link .

Constellation Energy is one of Ananta’s top suppliers we work with and their mission towards reducing carbon footprint and accelerating toward the clean-energy movement is part of what inspires us most about this amazing organization.

2022 Brady Ware Women’s Leadership Conference and Luncheon

Tue, 15 Feb 2022 02:20:09 GMT

Learn from the Leading Women in Business

The 2022 Brady Ware Women’s Leadership Conference and Luncheon in Columbus, OH, is presented by Better Business Bureau and the Women’s Small Business Accelerator (WSBA). This amazing live event's theme is "ENERGIZING YOUR GROWTH," and takes place on Friday, June 24th, marking it's 9th year!

Tickets will be available soon.

Looking to change the way we think about leadership, Cindy Solomon has been announced as the first keynote speaker. Cindy works with forward-thinking organizations to replace outdated leadership techniques with new tools that leverage personal courage and transform sluggish cultures into global powerhouses. You don't want to miss her!

Schedule of events coming soon!

Events like the Women's Leadership Conference and AAHOA 2022 are great ways for us to stay involved with the community. Attending one of these events? Let's chat about your energy needs .

What is Peak Load and Base Load?

Fri, 11 Feb 2022 20:30:26 GMT

What Is the Difference Between Peak Load vs. Base Load?

According to Sino Voltaics , Load is “the amount of current being drawn by all the components (appliances, motors, machines, etc.).” Load can be distinguished within two categories– Base Load and Peak Load. See below for what each of those terms mean, their differences, and why this information is important to know for any energy consumer.

The visual below portrays a graph of how load typically can flow throughout each day. (Source: Sino Voltaics link above.)

What is Base Load?

Baseload: Level of demand is at its minimum for electric current to be delivered or that is required over a given period of time, at a consistent and constant rate.

Continuous rate and lower amount of electricity needed, thus more predictable than Peak Load

What is Peak Load?

Peak load: The maximum load during a specified period of time.

The highest demand for electricity needed during a short amount of time
During times that the sum of electricity usage by appliances or other products that require electricity is high– for example, when staff is all in the office working or when the whole family is at home– the peak load is distinguished by the highest sum of electric current used within one hour of a regular, 24-hour day.

PLCs (Peak Load Contributions) Calculated Per Territory

NYISO

ICAP tag - Installed Capacity Tag
Determined by consumption from the highest, full, single hour, from the previous year.
Peak hour is the hour that usage was the highest across the entire NYISO grid (not just one zone/utility).
Effective each May 1- April 30.

PJM

PLC tag- determined by consumption from the highest demand usage during PJM’s five Coincident Peak Hours of the entire independent system operator grid, during the previous June 1 - September 30th metered period.
Effective each following June 1 to May 31.

ISO-NE

ICAP tag - Installed Capacity Tag
Similar to the NYISO market, peak load contribution is determined by the peak highest hour of usage, from the previous year.
Peak hour includes the entire ISO-NE grid (not just one zone/utility).
Effective each June 1 - May 31.

The Difference Between Base and Peak Load and Why It Is Important

Trying to find a balance utilizing electricity for your home or business is not always an easy task. You may know the hours in which your location is physically busy and using energy most already– that is a key factor for understanding when and where your peak demand lies. During the hours that your home or business is empty or not being used, would be considered the time that can be categorized as base load.

If you’re seeing your energy rates spike on your invoice during any specific month, you can find ways to lessen energy usage and controlling peak demand during busy times and make adjustments during those peak hours, to reduce energy costs over time.

Peak Load Management plans can also be helpful for learning how to reduce capacity charges in the future. One of the suppliers we work with, Constellation , can help strategize energy consumption, so to reduce your business’s energy consumption and lower the costs.

We hope this helps you understand how energy load and demand can directly affect your monthly bills. Contact us today if your property is in a deregulated energy territory and if you interested in a free energy analysis, by sending us a few of your most recent invoice copies to info@goananta.com and CC: support@goananta.com .

3 Ways to Save on Your Office Energy Bill

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 22:12:53 GMT

Here are 3 Ways to Save Money On Your Office Building Energy Bill

There are three main ways to save money on your office’s monthly energy bill:

Energy Procurement

Most office buildings in IL can shop for cheaper electricity pricing. Specifically in the ComEd utility; there are opportunities to save, regardless if your office building is small, with a 0 - 100 kW class, or a large, with usage over 100 kW. Depending on what class you’re in, your price to compare (PTC) will be different.

0 - 100 kW ComEd Customers and their options for saving money on their office energy bill
This rate tariff classifies small businesses peak kW (demand charge) that do not exceed 100 kW usage. Your office space would be considered part of ComEd’s Commercial Demand Tariff 0 - 100 kW, which means you’re more than likely paying a commercial electricity rate of $0.073/kWh (aka 7.3 cents per kWh).
100 - 400 kW or 400 kW + ComEd Customers and their options for saving money on their office energy bill are highly likely since they’re in ComEd’s Commercial Hourly rate, which can be viewed live on ComEd’s website - https://hourlypricing.comed.com/live-prices/ . ComEd’s website is very resourceful with hourly pricing and has options where you can view average hourly rates by day, week, month, and year. It’s safe to say that most offices are open during the on-peak hours, which historically comes in higher than off-peak pricing during off-peak hours. At any rate, we recommend looking at your ComEd utility invoices for the last 24 months. We call it an invoice scrape. Conduct a weighted-average-rate analysis and find your PTC. This will give you a starting point on what to shop around for.
To determine what tariff you’re on with ComEd, you can simply look at your electric bill (view Sample Below).

LED Lighting

It’s easy, affordable, and can highly impact energy savings for business customers; especially for how much lighting is required for an office space; converting to an LED system allows you to use less, which enables your office to spend less. LED lighting costs much less to operate and lasts far longer than other normally used commercial lighting options, such as halogen-lighting, fluorescent office lighting, or incandescents. Other benefits to note:

The quality of lighting can actually improve the working environment for employees, as the warm tone that LED bulbs typically produce do not impact vision as harshly as do fluorescent lights. Fluorescent lights are also known to give off UV rays, that over time, can damage your vision.
LED lighting typically has a longer lifespan than other types of lighting that are regularly used in office spaces. This lifespan does end up saving your office on future maintenance costs to replace older lights.

LED Rebates are available in ComEd area for both interior led lighting, and exterior led lighting. In some cases, ComEd can pay for up to 50% of the total cost of the LED improvements. For more information on how they work, and which LED lights can qualify for rebates, you can contact Ananta Energy Source ( www.goananta.com ).

Solar Energy

Ready for your office building to come off the grid? Imagine having all the power of your office coming from your roof? That’s where the future of energy is headed. To date, coming off the grid 100% might not be possible. Having your entire office building run 100% on solar energy depends on two main variables: (1) The sq ft of your roof, (2) how much energy your office building requires. Investing into solar energy options for your office building in IL can help you reduce costs over time. This in-turn reduces your carbon footprint and builds a more sustainable environment. A few reasons that solar energy as an investment in Illinois makes sense:
Rebates and incentives are available in Illinois
Comed Distribution Rebate
Check here to see if solar is right for you!
Awesome evaluation by ComEd estimating the cost to go solar with estimated paybacks and a list of pre-approved contracts from ComEd!

Top 5 Energy Suppliers in Illinois and Ohio

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 16:53:20 GMT

Here Are Some Of The Best Suppliers in the Midwest - IL, OH

Narrowing down all the options to what we at Ananta consider to be our top 5 retail energy suppliers, that operate in both Ohio and Illinois , is not an easy task.

Not every supplier operates in every market
Some suppliers procure electricity only--others natural gas only, and some procure both commodities
All of our top suppliers are similar in a variety of ways but have their own unique attributes and competencies in how they operate

Now, let's dive in. Who are Ananta's top 5 supplier picks in Ohio and Illinois (in no particular order)?

All of the above suppliers are notably prompt with their responsiveness and are knowledgeable about the industry and their specific processes/operations. Rarely do we need to be on hold or need to wait for another department to become involved for any inquiry.

Below are a few additional reasons why we believe that the suppliers we chose as our top 5, have gained our loyalty and trust over the lifespan of Ananta being in business, thus far:

Our channel managers always go the extra mile and are available to assist us in unique situations
Further elaborating on the channel manager side of the business, our channel managers at our top 5 companies make executing a contract from start to finish, a breeze. From education, to customer service, to contract execution-- our channel managers keep the communication flowing and assist us, even in difficult times
Hold ups are rare with these suppliers, as they clearly and concisely communicate with us, while educating us on supplier specifics, along the way
Energy deregulation is a fairly new industry and is always changing, updating procedures, and there will always be something new to learn. Education is a huge aspect of why we love our top channel managers. Our channel managers keep us informed of upcoming changes and updates as they happen, so we aren't searching for answers by scouring the net or elsewhere.

Terminology in Agreements

Blend and Extend Clauses

This is the “flexibility clause” that most business owners want especially when they sign up for a long-term energy contract. This clause allows our clients to renegotiate their rate down in the event the market goes down even while they're under contract. The frequently asked question (FAQ) we receive from clients is, “What if I lock in for 5 years, and the market goes back down? What happens then?” The standard response is, “Sign up with a supplier that allows you to blend & extend.”

For small to medium sized businesses (ie: 50,000 kWh annual - 2,000,000 kWh annual usage), blend & extends are rarely written in energy contracts. In fact, none of the top 5 energy suppliers mentioned are willing to put a blend & extend clause in writing at this point in time. Other suppliers we work with, such as Hudson, Tara, and Freepoint have their standard blend and extend clause built into their agreements for small to medium-sized businesses.
For small to medium-sized businesses, this clause is rather a policy the top 5 suppliers offer as an ancillary benefit while their customer is under contract. For example, if you sign an energy contract with AEP Energy, Constellation Energy, Direct Energy, IGS Energy, or Dynegy , you have the opportunity to request a “blend & extend” during the duration of your contract, but the new rate and extension offer may not make sense for the client’s specific needs at the time.
For larger commercial customers, this clause can be negotiated.

Bandwidth Clause

For small to medium-sized businesses, all 5 of our top energy suppliers can provide a full-swing (100% bandwidth) contract, which essentially means there are no penalties, or added fees for using more/less energy than what your account is requiring and hedging.

Change of Ownership

Direct Energy, Dynegy, IGS, and Constellation have the BEST change of ownership/assignment policies and protocols in place.

During the pandemic, several of our Ananta clients sold their restaurants and hotels. Direct Energy, Dynegy, and Constellation typically have a smooth process of transitioning the discounted rate from the current owner to the new owner. There are some suppliers who were not able to honor the energy rate, and this could be detrimental for all parties involved in the energy contract (ie: Current Customer, New Owner, Energy Supplier, and Energy Broker.)

Customer Service

Constellation Energy and IGS Energy are the top two energy suppliers when it comes to customer service. All of the suppliers we’ve mentioned are helpful in the customer service department, but Constellation Energy and IGS Energy set the bar with communication, support, and going the extra mile for Ananta’s customers.
Additionally, it’s their accountability. Both energy suppliers acknowledge when mistakes are made and go above and beyond to make things right. They continue to always put the customer first and they’re very diligent about resolving issues in a timely manner.

Contract Expiration / Month-to-Month (MTM) Variable Price

After a client’s contract expires, the client’s account may be transferred to a Month-to-month (MTM) Variable price. This un-fixed rate varies month-to-month, but may still be under the supplier’s variable contract, based on the market electricity rate and demand.
Dynegy and IGS Energy are the top suppliers to float month-to-month with. Their variable rates aren’t inflated. Some energy suppliers may charge premiums once a contract expires.

For example, DYNEGY and IGS might charge a variable rate in IL or OH for 5 to 6 cents per kWh, while other suppliers might charge 8 to 12 cents per kWh.

Aggregation and Capabilities

For aggregations and multi-unit deals, the top three easiest suppliers to work with are Dynegy, Constellation, and Direct Energy.
Our channel managers at each of these companies always go the extra mile to assist us and our customers with refreshing rates and executing/hedging deals. They are deeply familiar with the language that most multi-unit aggregations will ask for.
For example, over 90% of our aggregations are built with multiple decision-makers. They range from 2 decision-makers on 2 hotels or 125+ decision-makers with 500+ hotels. Our team has been able to price out aggregations with success for the last decade and it’s with the extra effort of these three suppliers, we’ve been able to learn a plethora of information through several trial & error approaches.

Aggregations are not easy, especially when dealing with several entities and accounts, and additionally, staggered start dates. Confirming the start dates alone is a process. Ensuring that all the customer data is accurate with credit passing on each entity is the next step, but not the last. The list goes on. Many times, there is quite a bit of extra effort put in between our operations team, the client, the agent, and our channel managers– all with the understanding that the supplier might not win this deal. Hence, there are other suppliers who might be discouraged by aggregations.

National Presence

Two of our top suppliers operate not only in Ohio and Illinois but nationally as well: Direct Energy and Constellation . They’re able to price in additional energy markets that Ananta is active in, such as IL, OH, TX, MD, NJ, NY, CT, and PA. The amount of information and education they provide in all of these markets is extraordinary. In the event they’re not an expert in a specific area, they’re extremely resourceful and always provide our team with necessary data.

Punctuality of Timelines

Every supplier has different timelines for when a contract is due for submission and this can change our strategy for several accounts, depending on how closely the commercial customer is watching the market.
Our favorite energy supplier with timelines and hedging energy contracts is AEP Energy. Why? Typically, when they issue a price, their provided rates are normally good for a 24 to 36-hour window! For those who do not know, this is very helpful on our end, as an energy broker.
All of our other suppliers require contracts to be hedged and booked not only within the same day, but some of them have specific time requirements (ie: Contracts due by 4p EST; otherwise offer is no longer valid).

How to Switch Electricity Suppliers in Maryland

Wed, 09 Feb 2022 02:52:04 GMT

Are You A Business Looking to Change Your Energy Provider?

Why switch to a supplier, after assessing your energy bills? The local utility variable rate has seemingly been working fine, but it’s a bit unpredictable in terms of how rates will vary month-to-month while staying with the default local utility.

Shopping with a deregulated energy broker can help speed up the process of invoice analysis, communicating with vendors for you, and seeing if they can really save you money over time. It’s not always the case, but as an energy consumer, you’ll have a better understanding of where your energy consumption demands are and how you can control them better. The best case would be to sign on with a retail electricity provider/supplier in your deregulated state, so you can have peace of mind, over the length of your agreement, that your supply charge won’t experience any market fluctuations or volatility.

So you may be wondering how to actually participate in the power of CHOICE in the deregulated energy market. See below for steps on how to take action and better manage your energy, by signing on with a new or different retail energy provider.

Step 1: Take A Look At Your Monthly Energy Bill

Check if your current energy supply is with the default utility or already signed up under a supplier agreement.

Local Utilities in Maryland include:
Baltimore Gas and Electric (BGE)
BGE Sample Invoice for reference
Delmarva Power
Delmarva Power Sample Invoice for reference
Pepco
Pepco Sample Invoice for reference
Potomac Edison
Potomac Edison Invoice for Reference

See above sub-bullets for sample invoices from each utility.

If you notice that there is a name other than the above four options in the SUPPLY or SUPPLIER section of the invoice, you may already have signed up with a supplier. If so, contact the supplier at the customer service # provided and request details on your agreement (term, rate, expiration, etc.)

It can be a confusing process at times, but understanding the difference is very important. If you still aren’t sure, email us your invoice at info@goananta.com and cc: support@goananta.com and we can help you analyze your bill for this information.

Step 2: Determine Your Current Contract Terms & Shop and Compare Electricity Rates

Your Price to Compare will essentially be in comparison to your weighted average rate, over 3-12 months. For us to calculate this average rate and price to compare, we need 3-12 recent invoices to be able to run a proper analysis. 12 Months-worth is ideal.

As rates come back from suppliers, Ananta calculates a variance between the Price to Compare and the incoming rates from providers, to see if we are able to find you savings over time. This is distinguished in closing terms (in months) and fixed, all-in, rates.
You can do all of the above on your own, but we can help and make it easier, as we have trusted relationships with every supplier/REP we work with at Ananta !

Step 3: Choose Which Supplier, Contract Duration Term, and Price You Prefer

Knowing the language built into your contract will help you decide.

Working with an energy procurement manager, (That’s us– Ananta!) will help and guide you through this process and do most of the work for you, if you choose to work with us!

Step 4: Your Electricity Supplier Switch Is Verified

Your new supplier will notify your local utility company and you should receive an update from both, ensuring that your contract has been processed and your electric supply charge will start on the given start date and the fixed, all-in rate will be set for your contract duration!

When the time to renew your contract comes up, we can shop for you, again and see if your current supplier or a different one would better suit your needs and budget at that time.

And there you have it! Shopping in such a deregulated energy market is not always so simple to do on your own, but we can help you understand the energy brokering model and hopefully we’ll be able to find you savings in the near future!

5 Ways to Help the Environment

Tue, 08 Feb 2022 03:31:30 GMT

Together We Can Help Save the Environment

1. Conserve Energy

Replacing conventional lighting with CFL s, LED s, or other energy-efficient lighting options helps decrease greenhouse gas emissions (and they last longer than traditional lighting products)
Click here to see which choice is best for your lighting needs.
Click here to see how we can help with your LED consulting needs.
Look for Energy Star -rated products.
Turn lights and unplug appliances as well as any other energy-consuming products when not in use.
Smart technology products for your home or commercial building, such as smart thermostats, can allow for analyzing energy consumption and controlling energy usage behaviors at home.
Seal any windows or doors that may be leaking air or causing drafts.
Check out our blog post on how to save on your utility bills during winter and in general

2. Recycle or Re-use

According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency , there are many benefits to recycling properly, for people and the environment.
The keyword is properly , as many products that are assumed to be recyclable, need additional checks and balances, prior to being recycled. If not handled properly, products still end up in landfills, which defeats the purpose of trying to better the environment and ultimately creates more waste– so it’s best to make sure that materials are properly disposed of, according to the label.
Recycling helps recreate jobs (hundreds of thousands of jobs are recycling-related and account for over 600,00 jobs, according to the U.S. EPA’s most recent Recycling Economic Information Report .
Recycling reduces waste and saves energy when done correctly.

Buy Locally Sourced, Fresh Food

Food bought at grocery stores often reaches their destination after much travel. Buying from local farmers' markets or within your local community, allows for fewer miles being traveled and thus, reduces carbon footprint, fuel use, and air contamination.
Locally sourced food options are normally fresher and contain fewer pesticides and/or contaminants than their non-local or even international counterparts.
Wildlife, land, and local food producers are protected with the income generated and typically practice in more humane and eco-friendly ways than big-box production companies.

Find Eco-Friendly Ways to Travel

Engine pollution is harmful to health and to the environment. Here is some background as to why and how to reduce pollution created from vehicles.
Walk or bike , when possible.
Use a battery-powered or rechargeable, fuel-efficient mode of transportation, such as an electric scooter if walking or biking aren’t viable options.

Conserve Water

Energy demands can be lowered drastically, even by utilizing methods to save water , alone.
Save water indoors by following some of these easy steps:
Use cold water, instead of hot, for laundry purposes and only wash full loads, when needed.
Upgrade appliances to Energy Star-rated products .
Take shorter showers–or showers instead of baths.
Turn off water from the faucet, when not in use.
Purchase products that have the Water-Sense Label .
Check out this infographic and the breakdown of water use by the EPA.

Although there are many ways to help improve our behaviors toward the environment, this list was just a brief overview of some of the easiest ways to start today.

Take a stand for the environment! Explore Mesothelioma Hope's free environmental resources, reviewed by certified oncologists, to gain in-depth knowledge about mesothelioma and its impact on health. Join our mission to raise awareness about cancer and asbestos-related diseases. Visit Mesothelioma Hope now and empower yourself with information to make a difference in saving lives and protecting the environment or read about asbestos recycling .

Contact us at info@goananta.com or click here , with any energy-related questions. We can help you analyze your energy consumption, potentially help lower your energy bills, and together work towards finding better solutions for your energy needs.

How to Switch Electricity Suppliers in Illinois

Sat, 05 Feb 2022 03:55:56 GMT

Are Your A Business Owner Looking to Change Energy Suppliers in Illinois?

Step 1: Identify Which Commercial Electricity Provider You Want to Change

Your lights are on but who is your electricity provider? Assess your current situation by checking the following:

Do you have a current energy agreement in place with a retail electricity provider?
If so, you will see a supplier company name listed in the Electricity Supply Services or Electric Supply section, noted above.
If the agreement is a fixed, all-in agreement, the invoice each month, should reflect the same rate on the Electric Supply line item (or in its own supply charge-related section) each month, until the agreement expires.
You could still have an agreement, but with a variable, month-to-month rate, which would show in the same line item as above, but the rate varies each month, depending on the market-based electric rate in your state.

Are you paying a variable rate each month with the local utility company?
If so, you won’t see a supplier company name or consistent fixed all-in rate under the Electricity Supply Services or Electric Supply section of your bill.
Click here to understand how to read your ComEd utility bill or here , for Ameren bills.

Step 2: Compare Business Electricity Rates by Provider

When shopping for a new electricity supplier, you will need to figure out your Price to Compare . This number can be found on the current electricity bill for your business.

You will then want to call a variety of suppliers to find the best energy rate that best fits your needs. You will want to negotiate your new rate, contract length, incentives, etc.

Step 3: Choose A New Electricity Supplier for your Business

Once you have read through all of the various contract terms and conditions from each commercial electricity provider, you’ll be ready to sign and secure your new electricity plan.

Your local electric utility will send you a confirmation of your new electricity supplier. You have seven days from the postmark date of their letter to make any adjustments.

Who Are the Best Commercial Electric Suppliers in Illinois ?

With the maturity of the Illinois deregulation market, there are a number of competing electricity suppliers. We take a look at the best commercial energy providers in Illinois.

DIY or Get Help?

Whether you’re the type to dig deep for your own research and findings or need a little assistance in the energy department with understanding your bills, analyzing your current energy findings, and shopping around, we can help! See what we do here .

At Ananta Energy Source we are able to shop for the lowest possible commercial energy rates for your business utilizing our transparent open-book pricing model.

Data Center Energy Efficiency Tips

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 20:39:15 GMT

Monitoring your Data Center Consumption

The federal government’s Energy Star program provides a list of opportunities for Energy Savings in Data Centers. The list includes power saving opportunities such as airflow management strategies, HVAC adjustments, and power infrastructure.

Airflow Management Strategies

Take advantage of “Hot Aisle/Cold Aisle” layouts – Hot and Cold Aisles are a way to optimize your space between continuous running servers vs. variable running servers.
Contain server racks — This will help avoid mixing cold supply air with hot exhaust air.
Retrofit your air conditioning with variable speed fan drives — Being able to adjust fan speed to accommodate changing cooling loads in your data center.
Review general airflow improvement tips – Talk to an engineer for the best recommendation of installation of things like blanking panels, structured cabling or grommets to improve operational efficiency.

HVAC Adjustments

Adjust the temperature and humidity — Data centers can save 4% to 5% in energy costs for every 1°F increase in server inlet temperature.
Install an air-side economizer — Bring outside cooling air into a building. Because data centers must be cooled 24/7, 365 days per year, airside economizers may even make sense in hot climates, where they can take advantage of cooler evenings and winter air temperatures to save 60% on cooling.
Install a water-side economizer — Use the evaporative cooling capacity of a cooling tower to produce chilled water during the winter months. Chilled water plant costs are reduced by up to 70% during water-side economizer operations.

Power Infrastructure

Use smart PDUs (Power Distribution Units) to help monitor energy use and to cut down on energy loss.
Smart PDUs can also help benchmark energy statistics and analysis within your data center and this can in-turn be helpful for energy planning/budgeting.
DCIM (Data Center Infrastructure Management) can also be helpful to ensure that smart PDUs are being used most efficiently and can help forecast future capacity trends for data center energy usage.

Many of the world’s top data center operators enjoy quick paybacks when implementing the above strategies in their facilities.

Data Center Power Consumption Statistics

40% of data centers costs come directly from the energy needed to power and cool the servers and equipment.
For an average, single data center, it will use the equivalent of 25,000 residential homes.
5.75 million servers across the world every year for a variety of industries and uses.
100x the power of a standard commercial building is what an average data center uses on an annual basis.
3-5 years is how often a data center upgrades or changes out to new equipment. Doing this can possibly increase their energy costs.
3-5% of global electricity will be used by data centers during 2022. The Natural Resources Defense Council say that number will continue to grow.
8% of all new data centers will be powered by green energy and be more efficient than any years prior.
There are 3 million data centers across the U.S. This equated to roughly 1 data center per 100 people in the U.S., giving them access to the internet.
5% of the U.S. electricity usage is consumed by data centers.
The continuous effort to make data centers more efficient could mean that the U.S. is saving more than 20 billion kWh's of energy in 2022. That's roughly $2 billion in energy cost savings.
A large portion of the Federal Government's electricity usage comes from government-owned or funded data centers. In 2022, it surpassed 10% of the total Federal Government's usage.

Sources:

https://www.energy.gov/eere/articles/10-facts-know-about-data-centers

https://www.ciena.com/insights/articles/Twelve-Mind-blowing-Data-Center-Facts-You-Need-to-Know.html

https://enabledenergy.net/blog/did-you-know-these-data-center-facts/

Winter Storm Landon's Affect On Energy Rates

Thu, 03 Feb 2022 15:08:15 GMT

How Retail Energy Rates Are Affected by Winter Storm Landon

Winter’s not over yet! In fact, some of the volatile weather conditions that we’ve been seeing in the U.S. would exemplify the opposite. Winter Storm Landon is predicted to impact a large portion of the US– from Texas and all the way to Maine, through this Friday 02/04/2022. Ice, freezing rain, sleet, and snow will definitely impact travel conditions and it’s advised to avoid travel if possible, where Landon is making it’s way through.

With these volatile weather conditions occurring, many residents and business owners in the affected locations are wondering:

How will this affect my power?
Are my energy bills going to spike, like they did with Winter Storm Uri?
How can I prepare for these types of storms now and in the future?

To answer the questions above, the consensus is that blackouts or rolling blackouts could affect much of the power in certain areas. Texas Governor Greg Abbott claimed that “no one can guarantee” those power outages won’t occur, but the state is doing its best to approach the situation based on this Washington Post article . Winter Storm Uri caused unprecedented high energy rates and it’s no wonder that energy customers want to be more prepared this time around and moving forward.

In Texas, specifically, the ERCOT power grid is heavily affected. Retail energy suppliers can only provide pricing for very short amounts of time and if provided, may need to pull any provided pricing, at any given time. Some may even need to shut down pricing altogether until weather conditions improve. This makes it difficult to sign on any fixed-rate contracts, as energy market volatility has caused rates to increase 2-3 tenths of a penny (ie: 2-3 mils) in the past 24-48 hours.

In terms of preparation for these volatile market conditions, a broker (hey, that’s us!) or energy procurement advisor can assist with the shopping around of fixed all-in rates, prior to when conditions become unpredictable or unstable. Essentially, choosing a fixed-rate energy plan allows for peace of mind and predictability for the client. The kWh rate stays fixed and does not fluctuate, even when market price volatility does. It’s important to note that the fixed-rate all-in (make sure ancillary fees are included) applies to only the supply charge of a bill. Distribution and transmission prices are not included in that price.

See your electric plan type options here , if you’re a resident or business owner in Texas. Contact Ananta Energy Source here if you’d like a complimentary energy analysis on your home or business, today!

Stay safe, warm, prepared, and protected this winter season.

What Is A Rolling Blackout?

Wed, 02 Feb 2022 02:32:48 GMT

What Is A Rolling Blackout and When Does it Happen?

You may have experienced a power outage at one point in time, with little notice. A reason why this may have happened in your area is that your local utility was supervised by the government agency that oversees your state’s power grid, which called for a rolling blackout .

Rolling blackouts are pre-planned, temporary outages, that only happen when there are volatile weather conditions or breakdown of power in the energy grid location where you or your business are located. Utilities will use this method of stabilizing the stress on their power systems if demand is too high for electricity in certain areas. This method causes a complete power outage.

Local utilities typically do not get much advance notice about these temporary power outages, as they are only administered as a final step of emergency procedures after there has been a detection of a supply shortage in the area/market. They are still planned ahead to some degree (yet, usually still with short notice) and are controlled, Customers that are to experience a rolling blackout are given some advanced warning from their local utility and take effect for specific, shorter lengths of time. Normally the utility will relocate the area in which they apply these rolling blackouts, so it does not majorly affect or cause inconvenience for only one area in particular for too long.

Rolling Blackout vs. Brownout

A similar, yet slightly different situation can occur is when your local utility’s demand is at or above the electric production capacity. This is called a brownout . A brownout is essentially a balancing of the energy flow in areas where the demand is too high. It can be classified as an unintentional voltage drop to allow for load reduction during an emergency. The local utility may stifle the flow in certain areas until power is restored to full strength in and around those areas. Brownouts can also occur abruptly and unexpectedly, due to a breakdown in the power grid and supply due to malfunction of some sort. If you notice your lights are dimming or power is fluctuating, make sure to unplug any computers or products that contain sensitive information you may need.

Ways to prepare for a brownout or blackout:

Invest in a backup generator to supply energy, if your typical power is ooc
Make sure your doors and windows are sealed
Minimize use of energy on appliances or other items that may use copious amounts of electricity or unplug them when not in use
Use battery-powered products, which won’t need any connection to your home or business’s electric power
Have a battery-powered NOAA Weather Radio on hand for these specific types of scenarios as well as flashlights for visibility purposes
Make sure to have an extra drinking water supply stored nearby, in case water is unavailable during these types of outages
Have a first aid kit available at all times and any medication supply in an easy-to-find location
Have an evacuation plan put into in place for all emergency situations
Check CDC guidelines for extra tips to help prepare for these types of unique outages in advance
Call your local utility if you can, to report an outage or seek status on repairs/restoration of electricity

Though there normally is not much time to respond to these types of situations, your utility should be alerting impacted customers when they are happening or prior to the occurrences.

We hope this helps you during these unique scenarios and check out our blog here about how to save on your utility bills during wintertime, or in general. Many of our tips can be useful year-round, to help balance energy usage and save on bills at your residence or business.

If your service location is part of a deregulated energy territory, feel free to reach out to us at info@goananta.com with your invoices and we can provide you with a free energy consultation and analysis, to see if we can help you save on your energy bills!

Texas Wholesale Electricity Rates the Lowest in the U.S.?

Fri, 28 Jan 2022 22:09:14 GMT

Where Does Texas Really Stand When it Comes to Wholesale Electricity in the U.S.?

Disclaimer: Wholesale electricity pricing (energy only) is not the same as fixed all-in supplier rates that are provided to our clients by us, or directly by your energy supplier.

In Texas electricity pricing skyrocketed after February 2021, following Winter Storm Uri. Electricity consumers were shocked by their monthly invoices and electricity suppliers were forced to pay millions of dollars on their end, as well. PUC (Public Utility Commission) in response, lowered the maximum price cap that utilities/power generators were able to charge.

For over the past 10 years, Texas energy prices have been lower than most other states in the US and the rest of the world.

Texas - Cheapest Electricity in the US

Texas is 9th in Electricity Prices in the US (less than a cent/kWh difference in total), in the latest energy report. (Sourced from U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA)
Business Rates- 2nd Place
Residential Rates- 22nd Place
In October 2021, 9.02 cents per/kWh was the average rate from Texas residential, commercial, and industrial buildings, combined.

Texas- Cheapest Electricity in the World

Ranks 6th cheapest territories for electricity, out of 30 developed countries (sourced from IEA )
Dr. Michael E Webber (Josey Centennial Professor in Energy Resources) confirmed that market design and rise of wind and solar, are the main factors that correlates with these lower electricity prices.

ERCOT (Electricity Reliability Council of Texas) manages most of Texas’s power grid and their main responsibilities include the following, based on their website:

Maintain system reliability.
Facilitate a competitive wholesale market.
Facilitate a competitive retail market.
Ensure open access to transmission.

During and immediately following the winter storm mentioned above, generating units of all fuel types that normally fell on the ERCOT power grid tripped, causing an enormous amount of power generation (30,000MW+) to be displaced off-grid. This, in turn, was the reason behind extreme power price spikes that were passed on to electricity consumers, during this time. Another important factor to note, that Reuters explains here, is that ERCOT doesn’t have a capacity market and therefore is susceptible to price spikes.

Generally–without volatile weather conditions or other unique factors that may cause price spikes, Texas still continues to have some of the best wholesale electricity prices in the world and Texas residents have the power to choose their energy provider/supplier in this deregulated market.

How is Electricity Measured?

Wed, 26 Jan 2022 15:58:35 GMT

The History of the Watt

Have you ever wondered about the history of how electricity is measured ?

Back in 1960, James Watt , an 18th-century inventor, instrument maker, and creator of the steam engine, became a prominent figure in science and mathematics history.

While working on his steam engine projects, Watt developed the concept of horsepowe r as a unit of power output. Since his engines replaced animals as the source of power, Watt decided to describe the power of the engines in terms of how many horses he would have needed to generate the same amount of power. One unit of horsepower was made equivalent to 33,000 pounds lifted one foot per minute. For his work related to efficiency and power, the watt was named after him.

Brittanica defines watt as a “unit of power in the International System of Units (SI) equal to one joule of work performed per second, or to 1/746 horsepower. An equivalent is a power dissipated in an electrical conductor carrying one ampere current between points at the one-volt potential difference.”

The Difference Between a Watt, kWh, and kW

You’ve probably heard of the term watt being used interchangeably with watt-hour , however– they are two different units. Although a watt is a unit of measurement of power, a watt-hour i s a unit of energy equal to one watt of output for an hour, which is equal to 3,600 joules. In addition, a kilowatt-hour (kWh) is how electrical power consumption is normally measured.

For reference, we’ll also dive into megawatts and gigawatts. This article gives a thorough breakdown of each unit of measurement.

Watts = Typically how a product like a lightbulb’s energy is measured

Kilowatts = Measuring unit of power consumption of larger devices

Megawatts = Measures the output of a power plant or amount of electricity required by an entire city, based on this article.

Gigawatts = Measures the consumption and capacity of larger or multiple power plants. 1,000,000 watts = 1,000 kilowatts = 1 megawatt (MW) and 1,000 megawatts = 1 gigawatt

If you’ve looked at your electricity bill and noticed that there are two similar-looking terms – kW and kWh , you may be wondering what the difference is between the two. A kW (kilowatt) is a measure of power, while kWh (kilowatt-hour) is a measurement of how much energy is being used, per hour.

How Much Electricity Does the Average Business Use in the U.S.?

According to this article by IotaComm, “the average office building spends an excess of $30,000 per year on energy.” In addition:

A food service facility consumes approximately 56 kWh/square foot.
A retail mall consumes approximately 23 kWh/square foot on average.
A public assembly building consumes approximately 15 kWh/square foot.
A warehouse consumes approximately 9 kWh/square foot.

These commercial buildings’ usages can really add up over the course of time and can lead to high energy bills. Many modern, commercial buildings are starting to invest in smart building technology, which helps decision makers understand and control their energy consumption in a more efficient way. Check out our blog post about how Wendy’s, a well-known restaurant franchise, has taken this approach to help build a more sustainable environment and lower their energy costs.

Analyze Your Energy Consumption

If you’d like assistance analyzing your energy bills or tips on reducing your energy consumption, please reach out to us at info@goananta.com . You can read more about what we do as energy brokers here and find opportunities to save as well, such as LED installations .

Check out these testimonials from some of our clients here .

What Are Electricity Supply and Delivery Charges?

Tue, 25 Jan 2022 17:49:50 GMT

Supply Charges vs. Delivery Charges on your Electric Bill

Depending on how your electricity billing is setup, you will likely receive one large electric bill for your business from your default local utility, or, if you've chosen to shop for lower rates on your electric bill, you may receive two smaller bills. One from your local utility company, and one from your commercial wholesale electric supplier.

Regardless, each month you will see line items for supply charge and a delivery charge on your electric bill.

Electricity Supply Charges vs. Electricity Delivery Charges

When searching through your bill you will most likely see a section for Electricity Supply Services. These charges include your electricity supply charge and are for the actual electricity supply that you purchase from a local utility company, or from a retail electricity provider.

Every month you will see a Delivery Services section on your energy bill, which includes all of your delivery charges . Your delivery charges are for the distribution of electricity to your business, and also include the maintenance and repair of wires, poles, and other electric delivery components. The delivery charges for a state is usually regulated by the state's public utility commission.

Take look at this sample business electric bill from ComEd.

Need help sorting through your electricity charges? Contact Ananta Energy for your free energy analysis and find out way we can save you on your electricity bill.

How Does An Energy Broker Get Paid?

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 23:18:26 GMT

How do energy consultants make money?

What Makes Us Different

Every energy broker and/or energy procurement firm gets paid differently. Some energy brokering companies that have owner representative agreements in place might charge a fee. Whether this is an upfront fee or a fee based on performance savings, some energy companies are compensated by the commercial client, directly. Hence, if you’re a commercial business looking for an energy broker, this is an important question to ask, so you 100% know what costs are associated with the energy broker and their energy procurement services.

Most energy brokering companies do not charge a fee to the commercial customer directly. They have contracts in place with one or several energy companies and these energy brokers are paid directly by the retail energy companies. Some examples of popular retail energy companies (aka: Retail energy suppliers/ providers) you might have heard of are: Direct Energy, Constellation Energy, Dynegy, TXU Energy, Hudson Energy, IGS Energy, Tara Energy, Eligo Energy, Nordic Energy, AEP Energy, Gas South, EDF, Engie, MidAmerican Energy, and many more. If you own a business within a deregulated electricity market , procuring your energy with a third-party energy supplier , through an energy broker (like Ananta Energy Source,) your commercial business would pay your electric bill through your regular utility provider. Once your local utility company receives your payment, that utility company would then pay the supplier, and then the supplier pays the broker (us!).

Markets Can Vary

Specific deregulated electricity markets like Texas do not have a utility consolidated bill (UCB). This market is dependent on third-party retail energy providers to handle the billing. This scenario is known as Supplier Consolidated billing, as the supplier issues the bill and this bill is inclusive of all supply charges as well as distribution charges + taxes.

Regardless of the billing option, most energy brokers are paid by third-party retail energy providers, as soon as they’re paid by the client.

Our Transparent Business Model

For 99% of our clients at Ananta Energy Source, we do not charge any upfront fee or a performance-based fee. We have our fees included in the supplier's rate. Does Ananta Energy Source work for free? No. Do Ananta Energy Customers pay us for our services? Yes, they do pay us, but never directly. Ananta clients simply pay their electric bills, and when the respective supplier receives their supply portion, that supplier then pays us our portion. What’s unique about our Ananta is that our fees are disclosed in our RFP (Request For Your Proposal), and our fees are the same across the board with suppliers when shopping. What does that mean? When we shop our pricing between companies like Direct Energy, Constellation Energy, and Dynegy to name a few, we keep our margin exactly the same between all of these companies to ensure that our customers receive zero bias from their energy broker. Ananta fees have been as low as $0.0001/kWh, and as high as $0.007/kWh depending on the customer, size, and energy product type. Our average margin across our entire portfolio of 900+ commercial customers is around $0.002/kWh.

The End Result

To conclude, some energy brokers get paid upfront by their customer and are paid a predetermined fee for the procurement services. Essentially, these energy brokers are paid directly just to shop around for energy rates from a variety of energy suppliers. Most energy brokers, including Ananta, DO NOT charge a fee upfront, but rather include their fee into the rates being provided. Depending on which energy provider wins the energy contract, that energy provider would then pay Ananta once the agreement has been booked and the energy contract has been started.

For more questions on how Ananta is paid, and/or how energy brokers are paid in the industry, please feel free to reach out to us . Building a portfolio, or a book of commercial energy accounts can be compared to a real estate landlord who has multiple tenants to manage every month and multiple rent checks to collect every month. The major difference here is that instead of collecting a monthly rent check, an energy broker receives fractions of a penny on their customer’s utility bills.

Electricity Distributors in Pennsylvania

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 20:55:24 GMT

Who is distributing your power in Pennsylvania?

As of 2022, there are eleven electric utility companies distributing power throughout Pennsylvania. Depending on where your business or home is your energy utility company may be different than another address.

Your energy utility company is your electric distributor. These are companies that maintain your power lines and transmit electricity to your business or home. You may see their trucks on the road when the power goes out.

Below is a list of the local utility companies / electricity distributors in Pennsylvania.

Citizens' Electric Company
Duquesne Light
Met-Ed
PECO Energy
Penelec
Penn Power
Pike County Light & Power
PPL Electric Utilities
UGI
Wellsboro Electric Company
West Penn Power

The electric utility company distributing your energy should not be confused with your electricity supplier, also known as your energy provider. When shopping for new energy rates in PA, you will work with a new electricity supplier. Your power will still be delivered by your local utility company.

Here is am infographic showing the flow on energy from the the generators to you.

Round Rock, TX Business Electricity Deregulation

Fri, 21 Jan 2022 19:57:40 GMT

Businesses save money on their energy bills in Round Rock, TX

Named after an actual round-shaped rock that can still be found in the middle of Brushy Creek, the town of Round Rock was formed in 1851. This round rock marked a convenient low-water crossing for travelers, wagons, horses, and cattle.

Fast-forward to today, Round Rock has made massive strides in constructing a world-class infrastructure system. From a diverse network of roadways to high-speed telecommunications and reliable utilities, the city of Round Rock will now meet the needs of both businesses and residents.

Electricity and Natural Gas Deregulation in Round Rock TX.

Round Rock is now part of the deregulated Texas electricity market, which means residents and commercial businesses can now choose a new retail electricity provider, ensuring they secure the lowest utility rates available in Texas.

Here is a list commercial electric providers in Texas.

If you are interested in switching electric utility providers in Round Rock, contact us for your free energy analysis. Ananta Energy is a fully transparent energy broker who simplifies the process for you, so you don't need to spend hours researching and finding information on your own.

The ERCOT Market Summit 2022 Schedule of Events

Thu, 20 Jan 2022 04:44:13 GMT

PUCT and ERCOT are driving mammoth changes

The 2022 ERCOT MARKET SUMMIT | February 24-25, 2022

The ERCOT market is going through some huge changes and restructuring with a whole new organization of new decision-makers. These new changes will have a immense impact on every market in the state of Texas.

The 2022 ERCOT Market Summit will train guests on the impacts of changes in the past and those coming in the future. Policymakers will come together with utilities, renewable developers, IPPs, retail energy providers, end-use customers, financiers, and traders to explore the ever-changing needs of commercial, industri al and retail customers.

Day 1 - February 24, 2022

7:00-7:50 am Registration & Networking Breakfast

7:50-8:00 am Welcome & Introduction by the Summit Chair

Juliana Sersen, Partner, BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.

Dealing with the Impacts of SB3 and Market Restructuring

8:00-8:30 am Keynote Presentation: Policy Implementation and Regulatory Directions at the PUCT

Peter Lake, Chairman, PUCT

8:30-9:00 am Keynote Presentation: ERCOT Response to SB3 and Increasing Reliability

9:00-9:45 am Panel: Impacts of Market Changes to Enhance Reliability

In an effort to chart a path to increased reliability, ERCOT released a 60-point Roadmap to

Increased Reliability, and the PUCT has likewise initiated “once in a generation” moves to

enhance reliability. These includes both existing and new initiatives, including:

• Realigning incentives related to how the state's power grid procures resources

• Changing how generators are paid for producing electricity

• ERCOT taking a more aggressive operating approach to acquire reserves

• Adding new “new financial products” to reward reliability or allocate costs differently

• Performing unannounced testing of generation resources

• Addressing transmission constraints in Rio Grande Valley

Many of these changes will be initiated by February, as well as possible legislation affecting

renewables and other energy infrastructure at the federal level. This panel will explore the

impact of these and other changes introduced in response to the events caused by Winter Storm

Uri:

• What is the predicted cost of ERCOT adders?

• Will working with the ORDC formula be enough?

• What impacts might changing transmission cost allocation rules have on wind and solar

project economics?

Moderator:

Emil J. Barth, Partner, BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.

Panelists:

Erika Bierschbach, Vice President, Energy Market Operations & Resource Planning, AUSTIN

ENERGY

Randa Stephenson, Senior Vice President, Wholesale Markets, LCRA

Resmi Surendran, Vice President, Regulatory Policy, SHELL ENERGY NORTH AMERICA

9:45-10:15 am Networking Break

10:15-11:00 am Panel: Responding to Weatherization Requirements

The draft weatherization rules go beyond mandating installation of new equipment, but will

include costs for non-performance that could have been paid by load in the past. This panel will

examine what was initiated in the November filing mandated by SB3, and its potential financial

and operational impacts.

• What is in the new rules?

• Renewable vs storage vs gas assets, what does it looks like from their perspective?

• How and when might weatherization be implemented?

• Are the required installations feasible, and at what cost?

• How will the availability rules work, and what will the impacts be on the wholesale

market?

Panelists:

Ned Bonskowski, Senior Director of Texas Regulatory Policy, VISTRA CORP.

Barksdale English, Director, Division of Compliance & Enforcement, PUBLIC UTILITY

COMMISSION OF TEXAS (PUCT)

Senior Representative, AVANGRID RENEWABLES

11:00-11:45 am Panel: Market Impacts of Redefining Ancillary Services

Lost to some degree in the coverage of overall energy prices last February was the extreme cost

of ancillary services in the crisis. Prices at times reached $20,000 for services that normally might

have been $15. As a result, some substantial changes are anticipated in the definition of ancillary

services to be provided, and the establishment of price caps on them. This panel will explore the

potential changes to ancillary services in ERCOT, and their market impacts.

• What is the current state of affairs, and how are the changes being negotiated?

• How could price caps change the nature of this sometimes-lucrative market?

• What new ancillary services and reliability services might be in the offing?

• How are ERCOT unilateral ancillary service demand increases in summer of 2021

affecting the overall market?

Moderator:

Juliana Sersen, Partner, BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.

Panelists:

Jeff Billo, Director of Forecasting and Ancillary Services, ERCOT

Eric Blakey, Director, Regulatory and Governmental Affairs, JUST ENERGY

Bob Helton, Senior Director, Regulatory Affairs, ENGIE

Katie Rich, Regulatory & Market Advocacy Manager, GOLDEN SPREAD ELECTRIC COOP

Resmi Surendran, Vice President, Regulatory Policy, SHELL ENERGY NORTH AMERICA

11:45 am-1:15 pm Group Luncheon

Perspectives on Policy and Market Changes and Challenges

1:15-2:00 pm Panel: Renewable Energy Provider Perspectives on Market Changes

The prospects for renewable energy development in ERCOT has never been so uncertain.

Renewable energy providers were in many cases particularly impacted by high power prices last

February, in some cases seeing several years of equity evaporate in the course of one week. The

changes to market rules could increase operating costs and create pricing uncertainty, while

supply chain issue continue to plague construction costs. On the other hand, over 6 Gw of solar in

the interconnection queue could drastically change the price curve. This panel will examine:

• How are developers handling pricing uncertainty?

• Will ERCOT see the advent of a California-style duck curve?

• Wind assets lost a lot of money in the freeze. Have they recovered? What does this

mean for wind in Texas?

• Are they still seeing impacts from steel, copper and other commodity price increases?

• Are tariffs and trade restrictions having an impact on supply chains and costs?

Moderator:

Kyle Hayes, Special Counsel, BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.

Panelists:

Mike Danielson, Vice President, BAYWA R.E. SOLAR PROJECTS

Chris Fallon, President, DUKE ENERGY SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS

Mike Kelly, Senior Vice President, TRI GLOBAL ENERGY

Vitaly Lee, Head of Development, Q CELLS USA CORP.

Dan Rodriguez, Director, Origination, NATIONAL GRID RENEWABLES

2:00-2:45 pm Panel: The Future of Thermal Assets in Texas

Thermal assets have been in a long decline in the ERCOT market as renewables’ bids lowered

marginal prices. Lower efficiency coal plants have increasingly gone inactive and

decommissioned, while the pipeline for additions of new gas units dried up. However, many of

the envisioned market reforms to address reliability issues are aimed at increasing the amount

and availability of dispatchable generation units.

This panel will explore:

• The prospects for thermal generation going forward.

• Is this a renewal, or just a temporary blip for these assets in overall competition?

• Will envisioned changes to the ORDC provide a long-term boost to the economic

performance of thermal generation units?

• Will plans for LNG export drive gas prices up?

• Will the closures of coal-fired units continue if gas prices increase substantially?

Panelists:

Jennifer S. Hsia, Managing Senior Counsel, NRG ENERGY, INC.

Michele Richmond, Executive Director, TEXAS COMPETITIVE POWER ADVOCATES (TCPA)

Colby Rodriguez, Chief Commercial Officer, TEXGEN POWER

Brandon Whittle, Director, Strategic Origination, CALPINE CORPORATION

2:45-3:30 pm Panel: LSE & REP Perspectives on ERCOT Market Reforms

The fallout from the freeze of 2021 will in some ways impact the relationship between

customers, LSEs, REPs and the wholesale ERCOT market players for years to come. Existing

customers will be paying the costs of energy provided for years going forward, while new types

of sophisticated C&I customers could drive substantive changes. LSEs and REPs will have to

manage the risk accompanying changing demand and new market rules, while maintaining

reliable power.

This panel will explore:

• How are they planning to manage default charges and short pay situations?

• How could cost allocation between retail and wholesale market parties for grid services

change going forward?

• How are they planning to serve crypto miners, data centers and other sophisticated C&I

customers?

• Will power supply agreements be adjusted via change of law clauses?

Moderator:

Stephanie Kroger, Counsel, EVERSHEDS SUTHERLAND (US) LLP

Panelists:

Erika Bierschbach, Vice President, Energy Market Operations & Resource Planning, AUSTIN

ENERGY

Joshua Chambers, Vice President, Supply, APG&E

Frank McGovern, President, CLEARVIEW ENERGY

3:30-4:00 pm Networking Break

Focus on Infrastructure Developments

3:30-4:10 pm Panel: Transmission and Interconnection Issues: Will the Needs be Met?

The impacts of transmission congestion continue to grow in ERCOT, putting in jeopardy the

ability to reliably and affordably power the high-growth Rio Grande Valley and deliver renewable

energy from the Panhandle and West Texas to load centers. It is now perhaps the most

important factor to consider in siting both wind and solar projects in Texas. The ongoing

economic and operational difficulties imposed by the rise in congestion are creating winners and

losers among generation owners, often creating “renewables cannibalization” and extreme basis

risk. At the same time, proposals to build significant amounts of new transmission have failed to

advance.

This panel will discuss:

• Where are the economic effects of transmission congestion being seen the most?

• How is congestion affecting power delivery, curtailments and basis risk?

• How is transmission access affecting siting decisions for utility-scale solar and other

assets?

• Could utility-owned storage help increase transmission and distribution reliability?

Panelists:

Joey Alexander, AMPACIMON

John Bernecker, PE, Manager, Transmission Planning Assessment, ERCOT

Ann Coultas, Senior Manager, Regulatory Affairs, ENEL NORTH AMERICA, INC.

Kip M. Fox, President, ELECTRIC TRANSMISSION TEXAS

Brad Schwarz, Director of System Planning, HUNT POWER TO HUNT UTILITY SERVICES

4:10-4:15 pm Networking Reception Welcome Remarks by: Senior Representative, Q CELLS USA CORP.

4:15-5:00 pm Panel: Storage in ERCOT

The value of energy storage was proven in the Big Freeze, providing a vital role in providing

ancillary and balancing services. As a result, the installed storage assets in ERCOT got massive

payouts, and a large wave of storage projects has entered the interconnection queue. However,

it isn’t at all clear how sustainable standalone storage projects might be financially without

extreme volatility seen then. A lot of rule changes governing storage are anticipated as part of

the current review of the ERCOT market.

This panel will explore the future role of storage in the ERCOT market, including:

• What progress is being made on rule changes to support storage in ERCOT?

• How quickly and easily are storage projects advancing in the interconnection queue?

• Will adding storage to solar projects be used by developers as a way to load shift and

avoid the worst impacts of the coming duck curve?

• Are LSEs actively contracting storage to enhance distribution reliability?

• Are LSEs embracing storage as a way to manage load?

• When will storage begin replacing peakers in ERCOT?

• Can the combined revenue stream dispatch platform of ancillary services (most of the

time) arbitraged against energy arbitrage (when viable) really justify the cost of

stationary storage-only projects?

Moderator:

John J. Leonti, Partner, TROUTMAN PEPPER

Panelists:

Paul Choi, EVP and Head of Origination, BROAD REACH POWER

Cody Guidry, Director, Business Development, STEM

Ian Haley, ERCOT Regulatory Policy, VISTRA CORP

Chris McKissack, CEO, GLIDEPATH

5:00-6:00 pm Networking Reception Sponsored by: Q CELLS USA CORP.

Day 2 - February 25, 2022

7:20-8:20 am Registration & Networking Breakfast

8:20-8:30 am Welcome & Introduction by the Summit Chair

Juliana Sersen, Partner, BAKER BOTTS L.L.P.

Contractual, Project Finance and Development Pipeline Impacts

8:30-9:30 am Panel Discussion: Development Market Outlook in ERCOT

A huge wave of solar projects is cresting in ERCOT: as of September 2021, developers had

100.3GW of solar capacity in the queue vs 42.4GW of utility-scale battery storage, 22.5GW of

wind, 13.5GW of natural gas. However, it isn’t clear what the future portends. Transmission

congestion is affecting the ability to deliver power from some of the most resource-rich areas,

while the increase of solar on the system is already having impacts on the power price curve.

This panel will explore the drivers and challenges for utility-scale renewable development in ERCOT,

including:

• How is the development community tackling the Texas market?

• What do corporate commitments to decarbonization mean for the ERCOT market

project pipeline?

• What impacts might the runaway trajectory of ERCOT REC prices from $.5/MWh to over

$6/MWh in 2 years have on portfolio planning?

• Will Texas state policies developed to support investments in carbon-intensive fossil

industries and plants affect renewable project deployments?

• How is transmission congestion affecting the value of new builds and existing projects?

• How are power prices affecting project economics?

• What strategic remedies may be used to deal with basis risk and other uncertainties?

• How much solar is really likely to come on the system in the next 3 years?

• What are the prospects for wind development in 2022 and 2023?

Moderator:

Carl J. Fleming, Partner, MCDERMOTT WILL & EMERY LLP

Panelists:

Michael Hoadley, Texas Region Leader, UKA GROUP

Claudia J. Morrow, Senior Vice President, Corporate Development, VISTRA CORP

Josh Teigiser, Vice President of Business Development - Solar & Storage, ORIGIS ENERGY

9:30-10:00 am Networking Break

10:00-11:00 am Panel: Hedge Markets Post-Freeze

Hedge markets were, to put it politely, blown to smithereens by Winter Storm Uri. As a result,

are fixed or floating swaps dead? If so, what might take their places to achieve offtakes? How

will volatility be managed without those tools?

This panel will explore the state of risk management and trading in the ERCOT market.

• How will risk be addressed going forward?

• Can you finance a fixed hedge?

• Can insurance fill the gaps?

• Are there any new tools emerging?

• Can storage provide an answer?

• Will there be enough capacity in the market to “gamma squeeze” volatility situations in

the future?

Moderator:

Matthew Berend, Managing Partner, AB POWER ADVISORS

Panelists:

Alex Deng, Director of Business Development, KWH ANALYTICS

Daniel Miller, Managing Director – Power & Energy Group, CIT BANK

Brandon Wax, Executive Director, Commodities, J.P. MORGAN

11:00 am-12:00 pm Panel: Impacts on Project Finance in ERCOT

The events of last February, the ensuing financial fallout on market participants, and the changes

in policy are impacting pricing, project costs, and risk assessment. How are financiers’

perceptions of project viability and risk changing?

This panel will discuss what will be needed to finance projects in ERCOT going forward.

• How are bankruptcy proceedings affecting their willingness to finance projects in

ERCOT?

• What will be needed for a project to be bankable going forward?

• Could ESG concerns affect the financeability of thermal projects?

• Are other markets now becoming more attractive to do business in than ERCOT?

Panelists:

Jay Chang, Managing Director, CCA GROUP LLC

Carl Cho, Director, Power Industry Specialist, CITI (invited)

Thanasis Iatrou, CEO, CAPROCK RENEWABLES

Rubiao Song, Managing Director - Energy Investments, J.P. MORGAN

12:00 pm Summit adjourns

Commercial Energy Providers in Texas

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 22:44:04 GMT

Choosing your electric provider in Texas?

A List of Energy Providers in Texas (Alphabetical)

Texas energy deregulation has been around for a long time. Since the early beginnings, many energy providers have emerged. Below is a complete list of energy providers in Texas. Ananta Energy is selective with which electric providers we partner with and will alway keep our client's needs first.

Updated: January 2022

174 POWER GLOBAL RETAIL TEXAS LLC

3000 Energy Corp

4CHANGE

4CHANGE ENERGY

ABACUS ENERGY RETAIL ELECTRICITY

ACACIA ENERGY

ACCEL ENERGY

ACCENT ENERGY

ACCENT ENERGY TEXAS LP

AES NEWENERGY

ALLIANCE POWER COMPANY LLC

AMERICAN POWERNET MANAGEMENT LP

AP GAS & ELECTRIC (TX) LLC

APEX CLEAN ENERGY RETAIL LLC

APG&E

APG&E ENERGY SOLUTIONS

BROOKLET ENERGY DISTRIBUTION LLC

Bulb

BULB US LLC

CALPINE ENERGY SOLUTIONS LLC

CAPITAL ENERGY PA LLC

CHAMPION ENERGY SERVICES LLC

CLEARVIEW ELECTRIC INC

CLEARVIEW ENERGY

CLYDE ENERGY

COMPASSION ENERGY

CONOCOPHILLIPS COMPANY

Constellation

CONSTELLATION NEWENERGY INC

CORAL POWER LLC

CORAL POWER SOLUTIONS

COST PLUS ENERGY

Cost Plus Power

CPL

DECLARATION ENERGY LLC

DIAMOND ENERGY

DIAMOND ENERGY TX LLC

DIRECT ENERGY

DIRECT ENERGY BUSINESS LLC

Discount Power

DYNOWATT

DYNOWATT POWERED BY ACCENT ENERGY

EAGLE ENERGY

EDF ENERGY SERVICES LLC

ELIGO ENERGY TX LLC

ENEL TRADING NORTH AMERICA LLC

FIRST CHOICE POWER LLC

FREEPOINT ENERGY SOLUTIONS LLC

FRONTIER UTILITIES

FULCRUM RETAIL ENERGY LLC

GREEN MOUNTAIN ENERGY COMPANY

HUDSON ENERGY SERVICES LLC

HYBRID POWER LLC

IGS ENERGY

INFUSE ENERGY LLC

INSPIRE ENERGY HOLDINGS LLC

IRONHORSE POWER SERVICES LLC

JP ENERGY RESOURCES LLC

MIDAMERICAN ENERGY SERVICES LLC

NATIONAL GAS & ELECTRIC TEXAS LLC

NORTH AMERICAN POWER AND GAS LLC

NUECES ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE (DISTRIBUTION SERVICE PROVIDER)

PILOT POWER GROUP LLC

POWER OF TEXAS HOLDINGS INC

PowerNext

POWERPASS

Prepay Power

PRO POWER PROVIDERS LLC

RELIANT ENERGY BUSINESS SERVICES

RELIANT ENERGY RETAIL SERVICES LLC

REVOLUTION ENERGY

REVOLUTION ENERGY LLC

SHELL ENERGY NORTH AMERICA (US) LP (SENA)

Shell Energy Solutions

SMART PREPAID ELECTRIC

SMARTENERGY HOLDINGS LLC

SmarTricity

SOL ENERGY

SOUTHERN FEDERAL POWER LLC

SOUTHWEST POWER & LIGHT

SUNRISE POWER & GAS TEXAS

Super Power

TARA ENERGY

TARA ENERGY LLC

TARA ENERGY RESOURCES

TARA POWER

TESLA

TESLA ENERGY VENTURES LLC

Texans Energy

TEXAS RETAIL ENERGY LLC

TotalEnergies Gas & Power North America Inc

TOWN SQUARE ENERGY LLC

TRAILSTONE ENERGY MARKETING LLC

TRIEAGLE ENERGY LP

TRIEAGLE ENERGY SERVICES

US ENERGY SAVINGS CORP

US RETAILERS LLC

V247 POWER CORPORATION

VALUE BASED BRANDS LLC

VOLT ELECTRICITY PROVIDER LP

Watt Bro

Windrose

WINDROSE ENERGY

WINDROSE POWER AND GAS LLC

XOOM ENERGY TEXAS LLC

Wendy's to Start Utilizing Smart Building Technologies

Wed, 19 Jan 2022 01:45:19 GMT

Smart buildings, smart burgers

Wendy's On A Mission to Reduce Energy Consumption

One of the largest and well-known fast-food companies, Wendy’s, is on track to reduce their energy consumption by at least 10%, and hopefully more, at 345 of their locations, by deploying smart building technology through Gridpoint’s platform . In an effort to reduce energy consumption and promote sustainability, this project could change how current and future franchises may view their energy consumption habits. Smart building technologies, such as the ones that are being incorporated in this project, also “allow customers to automate and control their assets”, per this article from EnergyTech.

Main Goals Of Smart Building Technologies

By using smart sensors and actuators, data can be thoroughly analyzed in real-time, to properly understand how energy can be utilized in the most energy-efficient and optimized way. These sensors can track data such as how busy certain areas are at any given time and over a period of time. The sensors can also automate a business’ HVAC system usage or any other unused systems that normally use energy during non-peak hours. By having these types of automation in place, energy consumption is less likely to be used inefficiently, thus lowering energy consumption and costs overall. With the tracking of data and analysis, business owners can make decisions about their energy usage and have better control over energy consumption at their business locations. The main goals of utilizing smart building technologies are to conserve energy, reduce energy consumption, reduce energy costs, and decrease carbon footprint making a business more environmentally friendly.

Wendy's Smart Technology Pilot Program

The initial pilot project between Meritage Hospitality Group and Gridpoint back in February 2021, started with five Wendy’s sites, one which is located in Florida. This Florida location achieved a 23% energy savings after analyzing and tracking their data for consumption–much more than initially anticipated! Gridpoint plans to expand this technology to the other 340 locations over the course of the first quarter of 2022.

This doesn’t just end at these locations either. By using Gridpoint’s grid-interactive platform, many other commercial businesses that are utilizing their technologies, as well as local utilities, have the opportunity to benefit each other. Per this article from Businesswire, by aggregating small businesses’ energy usage and data, utilities are able to be better supported and can help with supply and demand challenges. At the same time customers are able to reduce spending on energy.

To give you a recap on this topic, smart building technology can help businesses build a more sustainable future for their company, be more environmentally friendly and aware, and save some money in the long-term by doing so!

Contact Ananta to learn more about how the energy procurement process works and how we can help you shop with suppliers for the best energy rates

Save on Refrigeration Costs at Your Business

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 21:43:57 GMT

Don't let commercial cooling costs slow you down

Reducing Commercial Refrigeration Costs

Restaurants, grocery stores, gas stations, and refrigeration warehouses are a few types of businesses that heavily rely on commercial refrigeration for perishable items. Depending on the brand of refrigeration, the reliability and maintenance spend over a 10-year period could range from $40,000 to $120,000. If you assume an average cost of $2,000 for a new unit, you could have replaced 20-60 units in that time frame instead.

Did you know that there are quite a few ways to save on refrigeration energy costs besides replacing new units? Just by monitoring your commercial refrigeration components as well as your own habits towards checking energy consumption at your business? Let’s start by factoring in costs.

Constellation Energy published this article that goes over various factors that contribute to the costs of commercial refrigeration and how to save on that specific usage. Click here to read Constellation’s article about how energy usage is calculated for businesses and how you can better understand your energy bill when you receive it.

AEP , another one of the suppliers Ananta works with , also has some valuable tips and information about how to save on costs for energy at your business.

Costs of Running Commercial Cooling Equipment

Purchase price of the unit
Installation
Preventative maintenance
Service and Repairs
Commercial refrigerator electric usage
Temperature the refrigeration unit is kept at

8 Tips to Reduce Your Commercial Refrigeration Costs

Check and clean your evaporator, condenser coils, and air filters, to keep your refrigerator working at its best.
Keep the doors closed as much as possible and sealed tightly, to ensure there are no air leaks or drafts.
Update refrigeration equipment or replace altogether with products that are labeled as part of the ENERGY STAR® program , as older units are far less energy-efficient than newer models.
Ensure correct temperatures within your unit. The FDA and USDA regulations require that refrigerated food items must be stored at under 40 degrees Fahrenheit, and bacteria can grow quickly in temperatures that rise above that. Colder is better here, and slightly under the 40 degrees, Fahrenheit temperature (~35 to 38 degrees F) is the optimal temperature range.
Update defrost controls on your unit. Newer models of refrigeration units are able to sense and start the defrost cycle only as needed, rather than on a set timer. This helps by only turning on the cooling unit when needed to keep the temperature at your desired setting.
Switch your refrigerator bulbs to LED lighting options and to even further increase your savings, install lighting sensors so lights are only being used and turned on/off as needed, by demand.
Ensure your employees know best practices with appliances and/or anything that uses energy at your business.
Research what type of smart building technologies are available in your area. Wendy’s, a very well known restaurant franchise, recently began reducing energy consumption through a smart-building platform and this has proven to be very successful, where it’s available. Learn more about smart-building technologies in this article by TrueOccupancy.

Did you know that Ananta Energy Source procures energy for 10% of the Dunkin’ Donuts locations in the entire state of Illinois? Although more goes into it than refrigeration costs alone, we can help you find ways to maximize your energy usage and efficiency. Click here to read more and fill out the form if you’re interested in a free energy bill analysis from our team at Ananta!

Closing the Books in Accounting

Fri, 14 Jan 2022 00:20:45 GMT

It's time to close the books out for your business

It’s that time of the year again, where several businesses and organizations are closing out their books. What does closing out the books mean? Closing the “books” in accounting is a common accounting phrase that has historically been used among accountants who prepare their year-end financial statements (ie: income statements [ a.k.a. profit & loss statements ], balance sheets, cash flow statements, and shareholders’ equity statements). Each of these statements tells a different financial story of the business and offers multiple perspectives about how to understand and analyze the financial health of a business.

How to Look Over Profit and Loss Statements

For many businesses, they live and die off of the income statements. Depending on the specific business or organization and what their business model is, the income statement provides valuable insight into how much revenue and income the business earned during that given year, as well as all the expenses. In its simplest form, when you deduct all of your expenses from the revenue, that’s when you arrive at your Net Income.

When net income is positive, a business is to report a profit at the end of the year, and they’d be considered, “in the green,” for that year. When the business’s net income is negative, essentially the business reports a loss at the end of the year, and it would then be considered, “in the red,” for that year.

When your business is in the green and reports a profit at the end of the year, it’s normally considered to have been a great year. Usually what comes next are discussions for the following year's budget plans and how to re-allocate the profit to shareholders, investors, and other partners. This is a process that is normally unique to that specific business, organization, or corporation. For example, some folks like Jeff Bezos take profits earned at Amazon and acquired businesses, such as Whole Foods. Regardless if you’re in the green, or red, reviewing costs and budgets in a forecast model regularly happens immediately after the books are closed, so decisions about costs can be made early-on, in an effort to reduce expenses for the following year.

When your business is in the red and reports a loss at the end of the year, it may not have been your best year, and you can learn a lot about your business while you close out the books. You have an opportunity to relive the entire year, month-to-month, and evaluate the purchasing decisions made for the year that’s being closed out.

The Rising Costs of Utilities in 2021

When reviewing all purchasing decisions and expenses, it’s very common to analyze each line item and assess the cost, to see if there are any areas to save money. One of the line items that may or may not get the most attention, are the utilities. Especially if your business has a location in a deregulated energy market, your utility costs in 2021 may have been higher than they were in the prior year.

Why were utility prices higher in 2021? There are several reasons (ie: Texas storms, extended summer weather and hot temperatures, Hurricane Ida, and LNG exports to name a few) why utility rates increased in 2021, but if your businesses are not in deregulated energy states, then you probably didn’t feel the impact, as much. If you’re in a deregulated energy state like Illinois, Ohio, Texas, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania, or Connecticut, your utility cost may have increased in 2021 if your electricity rates and/or natural gas rates were or still are on a default variable market. Electricity, natural gas, and water can amount to a very high line item under utility expenses, when you’re closing out the books at the end of the year. What steps are you and your organization taking in 2022 to reduce your utilities, by reducing your energy overhead?

For businesses in deregulated energy states, electricity and natural gas can almost be managed like an asset. For more information on different types of energy rates and plans, and how your business can reduce your energy overhead for 2022, please visit our website, goananta.com, or contact us at info@goananta.com

How to Lower Electric Bill in Winter

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 20:35:44 GMT

Here are some ways to save on utility bills during the winter...starting with electricity

Tips On Ways to Save on Utility Bills this Winter

Winter is officially here and with that comes cold weather, lots of travel, spending time with your family, and unfortunately, higher utility bills, more specifically, electricity bills.

While energy bills can seem quite high during the winter, we at Ananta Energy Source, have compiled a list of tips to help lower your electric utility bill and hopefully reduce the stress that comes with the winter season. That way you can spend time with your loved ones and focus on what truly matters most; all the while save a little money! :)

Check your home for drafts
Regardless if your home is heated through electric, or natural gas, drafts can cause your power bill to spike. Drafts can come through openings in between window openings, doors, insulation, your attic, your chimney, and many places you may not have had the opportunity to look. Thoroughly check for drafts because if they are present, you’re going to need more power to heat up the place; which will result in more usage and a higher utility bill.
For rooms that aren’t consistently used, close off those spaces and their air vents, so that the warm air travels to the most predominantly used areas of your home. Make sure the lights aren’t left on in these uncommon areas well!
Smart thermostat - being able to control the air temperature within your home, even while being away, will give you more control over how much energy is used. A good rule of thumb is to set your smart thermostat to 68*F while you are in your home and keep it lower during the times that you are not.
Ceiling fan direction - setting your ceiling fan to work clockwise during winter allows the cool air to be pulled upward and keeps the warm air lower to the ground.
Let sunlight warm your home or add solar panels, which are usually a bit more expensive upfront but can lower your energy bill, exponentially.
Use thermal curtains to keep warm air in your home and block drafts from entering your home/internal air from exiting.
Unplug anything that uses energy, when not in use- this one may be obvious, but every little bit of energy saved adds up and can help you save.
Wear warmer apparel during the colder months, rather than turning up the heat.
For outdoor lighting look into LED lights to lower the overall consumption of power being used to light up your house during the nighttime. Also, make sure to use timers, so that on days you’re busy and forget to turn them off, the lights aren’t on during the day.
For homes that have a wood burning fireplace, utilizing a fireplace during this holiday season can heat up your home significantly.

For more tips on lowering your utility bills during the holidays, please feel free to contact us at info@goananta.com . Know some tips we forgot to mention? Send us a note at info@goananta.com , so we can share your tips! Happy Holidays and Happy New Year!

Wholesale Electricity Prices in 2021

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 15:58:02 GMT

The electric wholesale market price spikes

Wholesale Electricity Prices in 2021

Navigating the electric wholesale market for electricity can be a bit confusing at times. There are many varying factors that affect energy resources and distribution, so being able to gauge the market takes years of practice or requires continuous energy consultation. Here are a few facts, tips, and notes to take, in order to understand the basics of wholesale electricity.

What is Wholesale Electricity?

Wholesale electricity costs are paid for by market participants that purchase electricity from the wholesale market, for either their own use or because they are a supplier to retail consumers. In particular, prices from the short-term wholesale markets are very different from the fixed prices that supplier services are able to provide to residential consumers, which tend to be fixed over a longer period of time.

Factors That Increase Wholesale Electricity Costs

WEATHER: At the start of February 2021, Texas experienced an energy crisis that had not been seen in decades. The Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) took a major hit to the power infrastructure, as a massive Polar Vortex crippled the state with extensive power outages and distribution interruptions. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration , "Between February 14 and February 19, hourly wholesale prices per MWh at the ERCOT North trading hub exceeded $6,000 per megawatt-hour (MWh) 70% of the time. For the month of February, the Texas wholesale electricity price averaged $1,485/MWh." The cold weather that started in Texas continued through the entire central U.S. This ended up with the cost of natural gas delivered to electric generators averaging $2.40 per million British thermal units (MMBtu) in 2020, and more than doubled by the time quarter 4 ended in 2021 to $5.04/MMBtu.

POWER PLANTS COSTS: Power plant costs can be affected by weather as well, which can have a positive or negative affect on wholesale electric prices. Power plants also have financing, construction, maintenance, and operating costs that may vary each year.

FUEL COSTS: Fuel prices may increase during periods of high electricity demand and when there are disruptions in fuel supply. This can be a result of extreme weather events and even transportation and delivery infrastructure issues. The higher the fuel price, the more it costs to generate electricity.

Overall, the cost spike of 2021 resulted in rising costs for natural gas across the U.S. While there has been some decline at the start of 2022, it's hard to tell if the natural gas market will ever be what it was prior to 2021. Another circumstance that will most likely become a major determining factor are U.S. LNG exports continuing to grow in demand for Europe and Asia, and profit margins for those LNG exports increasing at an unprecedented rate.

You can find out more about the recent news of U.S. LNG exports here .

How Much Electricity Does Crypto Mining Use?

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 03:40:05 GMT

Bitcoin: The rising costs of electricity for crypto mining

Crypto miners around the world are competing to validate Bitcoin transactions and enter them into public ledger. However, to accomplish this, Bitcoin miners must use more and more energy-hungry computers to compete with others "coin-hunters." The more computers they have to compete with, the better their odds. Because of this, well-funded miners are now building massive warehouses packed with powerful computers, all of which are racing to mine the next coin, and using tremendous amounts of energy in the process.

In today's crypto landscape, you need highly specialized machines, a huge amount of capital, a large space and enough cooling power to keep the constantly running crypto mining hardware from overheating. This is why mining now happens in giant data centers owned by companies or groups of investors.

Why Does Mining Crypto Use So Much Energy?

Graphics cards used in crypto mining rigs are working around the clock, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. According to CNET, a rig with three GPUs can consume 1,000 watts of powe r or more when it's running, That is about the same as a medium-size window AC unit. Not so bad, right? However, a crypto mining warehouse can have hundreds or even thousands of rigs in one location, all consuming precious electricity.

One Bitcoin mining center in Kazakhstan is said to be running 50,000 mining rigs . That is a 180-megawatt facility alone.

Not only do rigs take up power, they also generate heat, requiring miners to equip advanced cooling systems which drive electricity costs even higher.

How Much Electricity Does Bitcoin Mining Use?

According to the Digiconomist's Bitcoin Energy Consumption Inde x, it is estimated that one Bitcoin transaction takes up to 2,277 kWh of electricity to complete. In other words, mining one coin is the equivalent of approximately consuming 78 days of power for the average US household.

How Much Does Mining Crypto Cost?

If you take 2,277 kWh and multiply that by the average cost per kWh in the US, which is around 13 cents / kWh, the average Bitcoin mining transaction would cost more than $296 in energy bills. This is an estimate.

With so many variables, it is hard to calculate exactly how much energy bitcoin mining consumes, however, New York Times recently shared some interesting stats:

Bitcoin mining consumes around 204 terawatt-hours of electricity annually:

Comparable to the power use of Thailand.
0.5% of all electricity consumption worldwide.
Same amount of electricity consumed in the state of Washington each year.
More than a third of electricity used for residential cooling in the US annually.
Seven times the electricity used by all of Google's global operations.

If you are looking to save money on your data center electricity bill contact Ananta for your free energy analysis .

How to Change Your Electricity Provider in Ohio

Wed, 12 Jan 2022 17:09:43 GMT

How do you change your energy supplier in Columbus, OH?

Identify Which Commercial Electricity Provider You Want to Change

Assess your current situation and answer the following question, are you with the default utility paying default utility prices, or are you with a supplier and have some type of 3rd party energy rate?

Compare Business Electricity Rates by Provider

When shopping for a new electricity supplier, you will need to figure out your Price to Compare. This number can be found on the current electricity bill for your business.

You will then want to call a variety of suppliers to find the best energy rate that best fits your needs. You will want to negotiate your new rate, contract length, incentives, etc.

Choose A New Electricity Supplier for your Business

Once you have read through all of the various contract terms and conditions from each commercial electricity provider, you are ready to sign and secure your new electricity plan.

Your local electricity utility will send you a confirmation of your new electricity supplier. You have seven days from the postmark date of their letter to make any adjustments.

Who Are the Best Commercial Electric Suppliers in Columbus Ohio?

At Ananta Energy Source we are able to shop for the lowest possible commercial energy rates for your business utilizing our transparent open-book pricing model.

USA Liquified Natural Gas Exports

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 18:03:18 GMT

Natural Gas Prices expecting a volatile year

Natural gas pricing in the U.S. is projected to have another unpredictable and volatile year, after the intense effects of countrywide storms, weather changes, and LNG exports that occurred in 2021.

With regards to weather, 2021 started off on a negative note with the Texas storms and everything the ERCOT grid went through. You saw executives resign and relinquish their roles at several utilities as well as the TX utility commission. We also experienced a very hot summer that extended into your typical fall months. Combine these events with Hurricane Ida, and you have a recipe for a highly volatile energy market. It’s no secret that Illinois customers who are on a ComEd Hourly variable plan saw some of the highest rates in Q3-Q4 of 2021.

Taking a look at the history of LNG (liquified natural gas) exportation for the U.S., it is to note that international LNG transport did not have the infrastructure built to be able to ship to multiple areas in Europe and Asia prior to ~5 years ago. The U.S. natural gas market pricing was predicted by the local and domestic market, mostly by the observation of abrupt or irregular weather changes. Now, however, with 2022 seeing the effects of the supply chain shortage across the globe, the U.S. is seeing an increase in demand for natural gas exports.

Fast-forward to today, U.S. gas exports are taking a larger percentage of domestic natural gas production, according to this article , posted by Bloomberg. See the graph below for reference:

In conjunction with a record-setting amount of LNG exports, U.S. natural gas production has reached an all-time high with production facilities mining shale fields from Texas to Pennsylvania. Some experts are predicting LNG facilities to reach a point of producing more natural gas than the market can handle, threatening to swamp the market with more gas than it can burn.

So what does all this mean for U.S. consumers? We should expect to see a definite rise in pricing over the course of 2022 as high demand in Europe and Asia bring along a price war, where they are willing to pay a very high premium for American LNG exports.

In some cases, this can be upwards of a 400-1000% increase for what Americans are currently paying. As an LNG business owner, the incentive to raise prices in the U.S. when they are making 4 to 10 times more profit on the resource overseas is almost an obvious business decision. Americans could potentially expect to see prices for natural gas double, or possibly more, throughout 2022 into 2023.

Could the idea of having an abundance (aka oversupply) of NG in 2022 bring prices down? If they do, for how long? What variables need to be considered for individuals hoping for a bearish market? Please contact us as we welcome expert perspectives on the natural gas market.

Article for reference: U.S. Natural Gas Faces Wild 2022 as Foreign Crises Exert Pull

How to Be An Energy Broker

Mon, 10 Jan 2022 17:53:46 GMT

Asking yourself "Would I make a good energy broker?" Let's take a look...

Would I make a Good Energy Broker?

A common question that I receive is “Would I make a good energy broker?.” This can be very hard to answer. It’s like answering, would I be a great real estate agent, or a financial planner, insurance agent, a doctor, lawyer, or even a great athlete. Regardless of anything you pursue, being successful at something is going to require a serious amount of effort, determination, and discipline to be truly good. Becoming a successful energy broker is no exception.

Best Practices: What Makes A Good Energy Broker?

Being a good energy broker has nothing to do with how much money you earn. But rather, your work ethic, how you conduct your business, how many clients do you have, and your client retention.

What do energy brokers, real estate agents, insurance brokers, and financial planners all have in common? They all have a very strong work ethic; entrepreneurial with the notion that sometimes duty calls after the typical 9 to 5 work hours. Whether you were up late at night studying industry material, working on a proposal, or even taking a client or a group of clients to a ball game, a great energy broker is willing to put in some extra time that goes beyond the average 40 hr work week. In order to be good and great at anything, a level of commitment is necessary.

How you conduct business is a great determining factor when classifying whether an energy broker is good, or bad. If you are an energy broker that currently discloses your margin, which is also known as providing open book pricing, this single gesture validates you as trustworthy and transparent. Transparency in margins for energy brokering is something you will begin to see more and more in the energy deregulation industry, but a vast majority of energy brokers and energy broker firms do not disclose their margin in fear their clients will ask for a reduction. Our company, Ananta Energy Source competes with several energy brokering companies that DO NOT disclose their pricing. Additionally, if you are okay with taking phone calls (or texts) after hours for customer service related matters, that’s another positive variable distinguishing you as a good energy broker. Being punctual and knowledgeable about the industry and industry practices are also great qualities of conducting good business.

How many clients you have and your retention matters. If you are an energy broker that has a strong book of clients, which yields a high retention, You’re not only considered a good energy broker, but a very valuable one. In several cases, your book of business can always be sold. Some indicators of a great energy manager are client testimonials , reviews, and referrals.

What Personality Traits Do Energy Brokers Have?

Successful energy brokers are professionals who are always willing to go above and beyond, not only for their clients, but for themselves. Remember, to be an excellent energy manager, you should always be looking for opportunities to educate yourself on industry trends. This not only helps you in the field but ensures your clients are always up-to-date with the latest industry trends. Motivated, authentic, and having a thirst for knowledge are great traits to have as an energy manager.

Becoming an Energy Broker or Referral Partner

Interested in becoming an energy broker? Contact Ananta Energy Source to learn more about the Ananta Referral Program and open Energy Consultant positions.

Electricity Providers in Pennsylvania

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 20:55:50 GMT

A List of Pennsylvania Electricity Suppliers

Here is a list of electricity suppliers in Pennsylvania offering products on PAPowerSwitch.

Aadvantage Power
Advantage Energy Partners LLC
AEP Energy
Agera Energy LLC
Agway Energy Services LLC
All American Power and Gas PA LLC
Alpha Gas and Electric LLC
Ambit Energy
American Power & Gas of Pennsylvania LLC
American PowerNet
AP Gas & Electric (PA), LLC
Astral Energy LLC
Better Buy Energy
BidURenergy
Brice Associates LLC
Brighten Energy
Calpine Energy Solutions LLC
Champion Energy Services LLC
Choice Energy Services
Cirro Energy
CleanChoice Energy
CleanSky Energy
Clearview Energy
Community Energy
Constellation Energy
Constellation NewEnergy Inc.
Direct Energy
Discount Power Inc.
Duquesne Light Energy
Dynegy
Eligo Energy PA LLC
Energy Co-op
Energy Cooperative of America
Energy Harbor LLC
Energy Plus Holdings, LLC

EnergyPricing.com
Energy Rewards
Energy Savers Inc.
Energy.Me
Engie Resources
Freepoint Energy Solutions LLC
Frontier Utilities Northeast LLC
Gateway Energy Services Corporation
Great American Power
Green Mountain Energy Company
HIKO Energy LLC
Hudson Energy
IDT Energy, Inc.
IGS Energy
Indra Energy
Inspire
Just Energy
Just Energy Solutions
Liberty Power
Liberty Power Holdings
LifeEnergy
Louis DeSanto
Major Energy
Marathon Energy
MidAmerican Energy Services, LLC
MP2 Energy NE LLC
Mpower Energy NJ LLC
National Gas & Electric
New Wave Energy Corporation
NextEra Energy Services Pennsylvania LLC
Nittany Energy LLC
Nordic Energy Services LLC
North American Power
NRG Home
nTherm LLC
Oasis Energy
Pennsylvania Gas & Electric
Plymouth Rock Energy
Powervine Energy
PSEG Energy Solutions LLC
Public Power, LLC
Pure Energy USA PA LLC
PWI Engineering
Quest Energy Solutions
Residents Energy LLC
RiteRate Energy
RPA Energy dba Green Choice Energy
Rushmore Energy
Santanna Energy Services
SFE Energy Pennsylvania, Inc.
Shipley Energy
SmartEnergy
Spark Energy, LLC
Sprague Energy Solutions Inc.
Spring Power & Gas
Star Energy Partners LLC
Starion Energy
StateWise Energy Pennsylvania, LLC.
Stream Energy
Sunrise Power and Gas
Sunwave Gas & Power
Talen Energy
Think Energy
Tomorrow Energy
Town Square Energy
UGI
Unified Energy Services LLC
Value Plus Energy
Viridian Energ y
Vista Energy Marketing L.P.

WGL Energy Services
YEP Energy

Contact Ananta Energy for your free energy analysis and compare electricity rates in Pennsylvania.

AAHOA Convention & Tradeshow 2022 Agenda

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 03:43:00 GMT

The Official AAHOA Convention 2022 Agenda Has Been Released

What's It Like at AAHOA? Take a look...

We are so excited for the next edition of the nation’s largest event exclusively for hotel owners, the 2022 AAHOA Convention & Trade Show. Meet face-to-face with the nations most influential hoteliers and enjoy 4 days of networking, learning, mentorship, and deal-making.

What is the AAHOA Convention?

AAHOA stands for Asian American Hotel Owners Association , and is considered to be the largest hotel owners association in the country. AAHOA's 20,000 members combined own 60 percent of the hotels in the nation. With billions of dollars in property assets and over a million employees, members of AAHOA are massive contributors to the U.S. economy.

AAHOA 2022 Schedule

Below is the most up-to-date Agenda for the 2022 AAHOA Convention in Baltimore, MD.

TUESDAY, APRIL 12, 2022

8:00 AM – 9:00 PM

ATTENDEE & EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION

7:30 PM – 9:30 PM

WELCOME RECEPTION

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 13, 2022

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

BREAKFAST

7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

ATTENDEE & EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

DOORS TO GENERAL SESSIONS OPEN

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

GENERAL SESSION

11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

TRADE SHOW

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

LUNCH

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

EDUCATION SESSIONS

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

AAHOA INTERACTIVE

7:00 PM – 10:00 PM

AAHOA BLOCK PARTY

THURSDAY, APRIL 14, 2022

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

BREAKFAST

7:00 AM – 5:00 PM

ATTENDEE & EXHIBITOR REGISTRATION

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

DOORS TO GENERAL SESSION OPEN

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

GENERAL SESSION

11:00 AM – 5:00 PM

TRADE SHOW

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

LUNCH

1:00 PM – 4:00 PM

EDUCATION SESSIONS

2:00 PM – 5:00 PM

AAHOA INTERACTIVE

FRIDAY, APRIL 15, 2022

7:00 AM – 8:30 AM

BREAKFAST

7:00 AM – 10:00 AM

ATTENDEE REGISTRATION

8:00 AM – 9:00 AM

DOORS TO GENERAL SESSION OPEN

9:00 AM – 11:00 AM

GENERAL SESSION

11:00 AM – 1:00 PM

VOTING

12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

LUNCH

6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

GALA RECEPTION

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM

CLOSING SESSION

8:30 PM – 12:00 AM

GALA ENTERTAINMENT

Electricity Providers in Illinois

Sat, 08 Jan 2022 22:59:49 GMT

A List of Illinois Electric Suppliers

Below is a list certified electricity providers in Illinois who have also completed the registration process with ComEd to serve non-residential customers in ComEd's territories.

AEP Energy
Website: http://www.aepenergy.com

Agera Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.ageraenergy.com/

Ambit Northeast, LLC
Website: http://www.ambitenergy.com/

American Power & Gas of IL, LLC
Website: https://www.americanpowernet.com/

AP Gas & Electric (IL), LLC

Website: http://www.apge.com/

Aspirity Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.aspirityenergy.com/

Calpine Energy Solutions, LLC
Website: http://www.calpinesolutions.com/

Champion Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.championenergyservices.com/IL/

CleanChoice Energy, Inc.
Website: http://www.cleanchoiceenergy.com/

Clearview Energy
Website: http://clearviewenergy.com/

ConocoPhillips Company
Website: http://www.conocophillips.com/EN/Pages/index.aspx

Constellation Energy
Website: http://www.constellation.com

Direct Energy
Website: http://www.directenergy.com/businessenergy

Dynegy
Website: http://www.dynegy.com/electric-supplier

EDF Energy Services, LLC
Website: http://www.edfenergyservices.com/

Eligo Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.eligoenergy.com/

Energy Harbor LLC
Website: http://www.fes.com

Energy Plus
Website: http://www.energypluscompany.com

Energy Rewards
Website: http://comcastenergyrewards.com/

Energy.ME
Website: http://www.energy.me/

ENGIE Power & Gas LLC
Website: http://www.plymouthenergy.com/

Hero Power
Website: http://www.myheropower.com/

Hiko Energy
Website: http://www.hikoenergy.com/

Homefield Energy
Website: http://www.dynegy.com/homefield

Hudson Energy Services LLC
Website: http://www.hudsonenergy.net

IDT Energy, Inc.
Website: http://idtenergy.com/

IGS Energy
Website: http://igsenergy.com

Illinois Gas & Electric
Website: http://www.ilgande.com/

Independence Energy
Website: http://www.chooseindependence.com

Indra Energy
Website: http://indraenergy.com

Liberty Power Holdings LLC

Phone: 866-769-3799
Website: http://www.libertypowercorp.com

LifeEnergy, LLC
Website: http://www.lifeenergy.com/

Lower Electric LLC
Website: http://www.lowerelectric.com

Major Energy
Website: http://www.majorenergy.com/

MC Squared Energy Services, LLC
Website: http://www.mc2energyservices.com

Mega Energy
Website: http://megaenergyllc.com/

MidAmerican Energy Services, LLC
Website: http://www.midamericanenergyservices.com/

MP2 Energy NE LLC
Website: http://www.ngande.com/

NextEra Energy Services Illinois, LLC
Website: http://www.nexteraenergyservices.com

Nordic Energy Services
Website: http://www.nordicenergy-us.com

North American Power
Website: http://www.napower.com/

NRG Home
Website: http://www.reliant.com/Welcome.do

Oasis Energy
Website: http://www.oasisenergy.com/

Realgy, LLC
Website: http://www.realgyenergyservices.com/

ResCom Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.rescom-energy.com

Residents Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.residentsenergy.com/

Rushmore Energy, LLC
Website: http://www.RushmoreEnergy.com

Santanna Energy Services
Website: http://www.SantannaEnergyServices.com

SmartEnergy Holdings, LLC
Website: http://www.smartenergy.com/

Source Power & Gas LLC
Website: http://www.spgenergy.com/

Spark Energy, LLC

Sperian Energy
Website: http://www.sperianenergy.com

Star Energy Partners LLC
Website: http://starenergypartners.com/

Starion Energy
Website: http://www.starionenergy.com/

Verde Energy USA
Website: http://www.lowcostpower.com

Viridian Energy PA, LLC
Website: http://www.viridian.com/

XOOM Energy Illinois, LLC
Website: http://xoomenergy.com/

How Much Does It Cost to Charge an Electric Vehicle?

Sat, 08 Jan 2022 18:40:18 GMT

What Is the Cost of Electricity?

As Electrical Vehicles, or EV’s become more and more popular and alluring to car owners, it is a good idea to familiarize yourself with how much an electric vehicle will add to your electricity bill.

An easy way to calculate your EV charging electricity cost, you first need to find your car’s kWh/100 miles figure and multiply that number by your current facility or home’s price per kWh for the time of day you will most often be charging. Although this may not be exact, this is a good estimate of what your charges will look like. This total will tell you the cost per 100 miles.

Example:

If you drive the popular 2021 Tesla Model 3 Standard Range Plus you are getting an EPA-estimated 24 kWh/100 miles. If your commercial utility’s pricing plan starts at 18 cents per kWh it could cost as little as $8.64 to recharge at home after driving 200 miles, or $4.32 after 100 miles. If your electric utility’s pricing plan starts at 11.2 cents per kWh it could cost as little as $5.38 to recharge at home after driving 200 miles, or $2.68 after 100 miles.

How Much Does an EV Add to Your Electricity Bill?

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration , the average household in the United States pays nearly 14.11 cents per kWh and 11.56 cents for commercial users as of October 2021.

How Much Does It Cost to Install a Public EV Charging Station?

According to The Department of Energy “The cost of a single port EVSE unit ranges from $300-$1,500 for Level 1, $400-$6,500 for Level 2, and $10,000-$40,000 for DC fast charging. Installation costs vary greatly from site to site with a ballpark cost range of $0-$3,000 for Level 1, $600- $12,700 for Level 2, and $4,000-$51,000 for DC fast charging.”

EV Charging Electricity Plans

Since EV's are so popular, and electricity is deregulated in many states, you can find an Electric Vehicle charging plan online.

AEP’s Commercial Electric Vehicle (EV) Charging Station Incentive

Companies looking for an attractive feature for customers, now is the time to embrace electric vehicle charging stations and the incentives available. For example, AEP Ohio's powerful incentives can help you offer electric vehicle charging at your workplace, government facility, multifamily complex or other publicly available charging location.

Have more questions? Read more about our energy consulting services .

New Years Eve in New York City

Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:24:10 GMT

NYE in NYC - What does it really cost to spend the New Year's weekend in New York City?

NYE in NYC

New Years 2022 already has come and gone so quickly but that doesn't mean that it's too early to plan for 2023! For all of us in America, there's only one place where a giant, 6-ton ball drops to signal the beginning of the new year and that's New York City! Let’s dive into a few facts about NYE celebrations in the city that never sleeps.

New Year's Eve in New York City, Times Square , is a major holiday where people from all over the country and world come to experience. With a seemingly unlimited list of parties, events, and experiences to attend from December 31st to January 2nd, there are many ways that one might decide to celebrate New Year's in style. However, this might be one of the most expensive 3-day weekends you’ve experienced. If you went all out and really made the New Year's weekend worth it, here are some breakdowns of costs you likely encountered in one of the most expensive cities in the nation.

Booking and staying in a hotel:

A hotel in Times Square or just outside of it costs anywhere between $500 to over $1000 per night for a single king or 2 queen bedroom.
On average, one can expect to pay around $725 per night, for a room.
Rooms with a view of the ball drop cost a premium price and well over $1000 a night, and if you're really looking to go all-out, upwards of $6000-$10,000 a night for a penthouse suite.
The major hotels in Times Square are going to be mostly filled booked or very close to capacity and you likely dealt with many people, no matter where you choose to stay.
Celebrations and quite a bit of noise are to be expected with no lack of socializing.

NYE Parties:

There are an endless amount of parties to attend on NYE so it's important to do a little research before you go out on the town. Take a look at the website Balldrop for a brief list of events, parties, bars, and clubs
If you're looking to attend the most popular and legendary parties in the city, make sure your bank account is ready for some large withdrawals. Below is a list of a few of the best places to celebrate the 2023 NYE night.
BAR 54 AT HYATT CENTRIC TIMES SQUARE - Starting at $1599 for a General Admission Ticket *(2021 cost and experiences)*
Watch the Ball Drop Live
The Tallest Rooftop Lounge in NYC
Extensive Views that Stretch Across Manhattan
Premium 5 Hour Open Bar
3 Hours of Passed Appetizers
Black Tie Attire Optional
MARRIOTT MARQUIS TIME SQUARE - Starting at $1000 for a General Admission Ticket *(2021 cost and experiences)*
VIP Party atop the 8th Floor of the Marriott Marquis Times Square
LIVE DJ
5 Hour Premium Open Bar with Buffet, Dessert Stations, and Late Night Snacks
Available options to watch the LIVE Ball Drop
Formal Attire / Black Tie Optional
AMC 42nd STREET TIMES SQUARE - Starting at $749 for a General Admission Ticket *(2021 cost and experiences)*
Best View of Ball Drop Live Available (Specific Tickets)
Premium Open Bar
Live DJ Spinning Top 40
Festive NYE party favors
Champagne Toast at Midnight
Live NYE 2022 Countdown
Movies Playing All Night Long

Don't forget that you'll be traveling in a city where food can get very expensive as well and public transportation will be at a premium and very busy. With basic expenses of the hotel, food, transportation, tickets to events, and a flight, you should be prepared to spend anywhere between $2500 to $5000 for 3-days and 2-nights of the most amazing New Year's Eve experience of your life!!!

Holiday Travel Tips 2021

Sat, 25 Dec 2021 21:00:09 GMT

The holidays are here and many of you will be traveling near and far, to be with your loved ones.

This year, and last, have been difficult for everyone, without being able to socialize and come together with close ones and with the spreading of COVID-19, and more recently the Omicron variant. Luckily, with most airlines now continuously using methodical cleaning approaches and installing air filtration systems, plane travel has become far safer and the risk to spread COVID-19 is much lower.

A few facts and tips about Christmas and holiday travel this year:

According to CNN Travel, AAA estimates that over 109 million Americans will travel over this and next week and more specifically from December 23rd to January 2nd. This number comes very close to the 119 million travelers around this time, and is pre-pandemic, in 2019.
Taking your beloved pets with you on your travels? Here are a few tips to keep your pet close and safe, while flying or on the road.
Make sure your pet is tagged with the most up-to-date information for you to be contacted if your pet gets lost. Microchips can also help track your pet as well!
Check with your airline to see if they have specific rules and regulations in regards to pets before traveling and be prepared to show documents for your pet, to avoid delays.
With jet-fuel prices continuing to increase, many airlines have had to cancel or delay flights and can make traveling via airplane a little less straightforward.
Make sure to check your carrier app and flight information prior to your flight, to ensure you know of any changes.
Occupancy with hotels is typically lower during the holidays, so if you’re road-tripping, now is the perfect time to take advantage of lower hotel/lodging costs for travel!
Nearly every hotel and their respective brands have increased sanitary measures for holiday travels, so every aspect of checking in is safer and seamless. Certain brands like Marriott , Hilton , and Hyatt provide options where you can check in from your phone and download a room key straight to your phone, so in some cases you can avoid the entire front desk during check-in.
If you are looking for a hotel that we've personally done business with and we would recommend, please visit our Case Studies page to possibly find a hotel located in the Chicago, Dayton, Columbus, Cincinnati, and Dallas areas.

Here, at Ananta, we want to wish you all a blessed and beautiful time with your family and friends. We look forward to starting the new year, with a fresh start, and the opportunity to help you save.

The Energy Cost of Christmas Lights

Wed, 22 Dec 2021 18:19:13 GMT

Milk and cookies aren't the only things being consumed during the Christmas holiday season.

With a majority of Americans putting up some type of Christmas lighting inside and outside of their home, the energy industry sees a major upward shift in residential and commercial energy consumption during the month of December. It's the magical feeling that Christmas lights bring to our home, community, and city each year, but it doesn't come without a cost.

In an article from Forbes.com , the energy company Arcadia decided to do a study on the impact of Christmas lights on consumers' energy usage and the energy industry with those consumers using traditional lighting, which is categorized as a home using nine 20-ft strings of 100 incandescent bulbs, with each string using 40W of electricity. Their findings show that the impact of Christmas lights on the national power grid is more than most would have expected.

The average household is estimated to have Christmas lights on for 6 hours a day, resulting in an average of 65 kWh of electricity in December.
Of course, if you're one of those households that go all-out on a Christmas light show, your average would be quite higher.
Arcadia estimated that the combined households in America with Christmas lights would consume around 3.5 billion kWh in the month of December.
An estimated total for that increase of energy consumption due to Christmas lights costs Americans $645 million in energy expenses.
That's an average of a $12 increase on a residential electric bill and up to a $20 increase on a residential electric bill in California.
Powering those Christmas lights is not the "greenest" way of power usage either as that 3.5 billion kWhs emits about 2 million tons of Co2 into the atmosphere.

It's hard to imagine these numbers when the lights are usually only up for a month. If you're a person who loves Christmas and the feeling of joy you get looking at your home, lit up in an aura of colorful light, there's a sensible way to keep with tradition and lower your energy consumption.

According to the Department of Energy , if you convert all your traditional lights to LED bulbs, the amount of power you'll be using to light up your house and that Christmas tree in the living room will be drastically reduced. In fact, it only costs $0.27 to light a 6-foot tree for 12 hours a day for 40 days with LEDs compared to $10 for incandescent lights. For commercial real estate, not only are LED Christmas lights going to save you money, but a full LED conversion of your parking lot or interior building lights isn't a bad idea either and Ananta can help with that.

We hope your home shines bright, your energy bill stays low, and the rest of your December is filled with love, laughter, and joy. From all of us at Ananta, Merry Christmas!

How to Use Utility API

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 16:56:24 GMT

Using Utility API is as easy as entering your email, utility, username and password, then letting us do the work.

We're off to a great start with some of our Illinois hoteliers using Utility API with us! It's such a simple process and allows us to provide an in-depth weighted-average-rate analysis as well as a year-over-year analysis comparing actual data over the course of 24 months. We simply send you a secure link and after your click-of-approval, we're able to access all of your commercial electricity account data, with all of that data and information securely protected. The alternative is contacting your AP, Controller, CFO, etc, and asking them to manually pull invoices, which can be a daunting task and take up a lot of your valuable time as well as the rest of your team. With Utility AP I , it takes our team seconds to access and minutes to scrape the data.

Below is a quick video of how to navigate Utility API to sign up.

Attention ComEd Customers

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 18:51:48 GMT

As a full-service or limited-service hotel, your ComEd rate may have been good but in 2021, things may have changed for you.

This graph illustrates ACTUAL ComEd-Hourly Load hotel customers and their variable rates since the beginning of the year. For nearly a decade, limited service hotels were at an advantage of of this load because 60%-70% of their energy consumption was taking place in the evening during off-peak hours, and those rates were extremely low and favorable. We'd advised SEVERAL Hoteliers with limited-service properties to just stay with ComEd because it was the most cost-effective option.
Things have changed!

Fast forward to present day, we've included a side-by-side-by-SIDE comparison of 2 full-service hotels using 1.8 million annual kWhs - 2 million annual kWhs with a limited service hotel using approximately 500,000 annual kWh.
As you can see, since June 2021, these rates have been consistently over 5 cents, and with all the bullish variables out there (ie: weather, LNG exports, hurricane Ida, etc), these rates have not come back down. With winter just around the corner, normally we see an uptick in pricing. What steps have you taken to protect yourself from rate increases? Ananta is here to answer any questions or concerns you may have.

An Analysis of a Full-Service Hotel in Illinois That Is Large-Sized

Fri, 12 Nov 2021 15:35:41 GMT

Weighted Average Rate Analysis (WARA) for a large-sized, full-service hotel in Illinois that had the option to choose a variable or fixed rate.

We had an opportunity to lock in this client at a rate of $0.04111/kWh - $0.04193/kWh between 12 - 60 month terms. We signed up for the 12 month agreement in middle of September, 2020, which seemed like a no brainer since September 2020, ComEd's default (Commercial Hourly) rate for this hotel was $0.04314/kWh. However, we rescinded the agreement after we saw the default rate go down to $0.03909/kWh in October 2020. The next few months it stayed low as: $0.04079/kWh (Nov - 2020), $0.03174/kWh (Dec - 2020), $0.03261/kWh (Jan 2021). Hence, if this client was on our contracted rate of $0.04111/kWh, they would have paid a premium. However, it started to climb back up month-to-month and beginning in June 2021, we noticed a drastic increase. Rates have been between $0.05416/kWh - $0.07865/kWh. Please Swipe Right to take a look at the graphical illustration that shows the variability of his rate per kilowatt-hour ($/kWh), the weighted-average-rate he ended up paying since he's opened, and the 12 month offer. If you're a hotel owner, where would you like to be when it comes to managing your energy budgets?

An analysis of a 1.8 million annual kWh client in illinois

Wed, 10 Nov 2021 23:01:06 GMT

Chicago, IL | Full Service Hotel Example

This is an ACTUAL example of one of our friends in the hotel business who was kind enough to allow us to analyze their ComEd invoices since they acquired the property 28 months ago. At the beginning of June, 2021, we conducted a weighted average rate analysis and the rates weren’t bad. Our plan was to monitor the invoices month-to-month and see if the market would take a dip.

Since then (ie: June, 2021—Current), the rate per kWh has been consistently over 5 cents with a new high of 8.5 cents per kWh that we saw on their October, 2021 invoice. We’re not too surprised because the Natural Gas (NG) Futures market has been climbing through the roof since June, 2021. It’s been one variable after another on why the market has continued to climb. Even when the market shows a small dip, it takes another big spike shortly after. The extended heat/Summer like weather we experienced combined with natural disasters like Hurricane Ida do not help the situation.

Back in June, 2021, offers to lock in at 4.6 cents per kWh were available, which would have definitely saved some money for our friends the last 4 months, but we never know if & when the market decides to come back down to where those variable 3 cent rates are possible.

Present day, offers to lock in around 5.4 cents per kWh are available. If you were the hotelier, what would you do? Do you think prices are going to go back down, where the 5.4 cents would be considered a premium? Do you think prices are going to continue to remain high and maybe increase further where the 5.4 cents would be considered a discount? We welcome to hear your thoughts on where the energy industry is going.

DISCLAIMER: The above mentioned rates are described as “All In/Fixed” rates (aka Full Requirements Rate) that are used for apples-to-apples comparisons for ComEd Commercial electric accounts on the 100 kW—400 kW Commercial Hourly Load. These rates are inclusive of Capacity, Transmission, and all the line items that add up to your TOTAL COST for Electricity Supply Services. The above mentioned rates DO NOT include Distribution costs and taxes.

Utility API Integration

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 15:46:06 GMT

What Utility API is all about

We are excited to announce Ananta’s new integration with Utility API . Utility API allows our team to accelerate our energy process when it comes to managing and auditing your energy portfolio with a turnkey, hands-off approach! This includes downloading all your historical utility bill and interval data and can even set up ongoing monitoring, in which notifications are sent to our team when new monthly data is available. Streamlining this process will not only save us time, but we can ensure that we have all the correct data encompassing your energy portfolio. Here’s how the process works:

We send you a secure link that allows you to enter in your utility login credentials (watch the video below).
Once authorized, your entire meter list will automatically be collected and available for us to begin downloading your historical data.

That’s it! When it comes to energy procurement, timing is everything. Especially with all the major shifts we’ve seen in the energy industry the last 2020 and 2021, we truly believe this will help us manage more tactically efficiently and stay intimate with our clients and their energy accounts. Utility API is a great new tool allowing us to strengthen our relationship. For more information, please visit https://utilityapi.com/ . If you find your utility in the following list and want to take advantage of this process, please reach out to Merrill ( merrillm@goananta.com ), or our Operations Team ( support@goananta.com ), and we will be happy to assist you with every step of this process.

AEP Ohio Power
Baltimore Gas & Electric (BG&E)
ComEd
Consolidated Edison New York (ConEd)
Dominion Energy
Eversource Energy
Jersey Central Power and Light
National Grid New York
PECO Energy
Potomac Electric Power Company (PEPCO)
Pennsylvania Power and Light (PPL)
Public Services Electric and Gas

Once again, this will help us streamline our energy process and existing relationship and offer a turnkey approach to managing your energy budgets and requirements.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR CITY ELECTRICAL BILL

Wed, 02 Jun 2021 17:24:30 GMT

Understanding your electric bill can be challenging, especially if it’s not something you’re paying close attention to, each month. While some energy customers understand the technicalities of each bill, many customers will receive their electricity bill, pay it or file it, and throw it away afterwards. Which one are you?

Ananta Energy Source would like to break down your electric bill for you, providing a brief overview of all the line items. There are some variables that the consumer has control over and also a few variables that the consumer does not. We can help you understand each portion of your bill, so as to help you make better business decisions with your electricity and save you money over time.

Energy and Electricity Deregulation Blog

Capacity Isnt Just Another Line Item - It's the Hidden Risk Most Energy Contracts Don't Explain

Capacity Isn’t Just Another Line Item — It’s the Hidden Risk Most Energy Contracts Don’t Explain ﻿

First, what is capacity - in plain English?

The most important detail most contracts don’t clarify

Our team recently completed a deep dive across multiple national suppliers

Why this matters now more than ever

What we’re advising clients today

The bottom line

Energy Market Update: What Happened, What’s Next, and How We Navigate the Next 30 Days

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1. The Market Shifted — Fast

2. Why the Buying Group Didn't Deliver Huge Discounts

3. The Clock Is Ticking — Enrollment Windows Matter

4. Why Short-Term Rates (1–6 Months) Are Higher Than Long-Term Rates

5. A Look Back at History (May-September 2025)

6. Advanced Products: Hybrid, Index, Capacity Pass-Through

7. What Happens Next

Ohio Hotels: The 2025 Energy Data Every Owner Needs — And No Supplier Publishes

2025 Ohio Utility Price-To-Compare (PTC)

Real Pricing Trends We're Seeing for Ananta Clients

How Current Supplier Bids Compare to These Benchmarks

Final Thoughts

2025 Energy Procurement Strategy: What I’d Do If This Were My Hotel

2025 Energy Strategy: What I’d Do If This Were My Hotel

Every month, hotel owners ask me the same two questions:

Understanding Each Hotel’s Variables

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rates

Supplier Transparency and “Fixed” Pricing

Market Conditions and Timing

Final Thoughts

2025 Hotel Aggregation | Energy: Electricity & Natural Gas

Fighting Back Against Ohio’s Capacity Rate Hikes: How Hotel Owners Can Leverage Ananta’s Proven Approach

A Track Record That Spans Nearly Two Decades

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Transparency, Trust, and Community: What Sets Us Apart in Energy Procurement

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Beyond Contracts: Relationships Built on Intimacy

Community Matters

A Different Way Forward

Understanding ComEd Pricing Options: A Strategic Guide for Hotel Owners

ComEd Time-of-Day Pricing vs. Supplier Index Day-Ahead Rates:

A Hotel Owner’s Guide

How Time-of-Day Pricing Works

How the Day-Ahead Index Works

Why Hotels Should Pay Attention

Our analysis of recent ComEd Day-Ahead market data reveals increasing opportunities for savings, particularly during evening hours where rates have occasionally dropped below 1¢/kWh. This trend is especially relevant for hotels with significant overnight operations.

Merrill's Early March 2025 Market Overview

Natural Gas Market Summary – March 10, 2025 ﻿

Key Highlights:

Outlook for the Week:

Navigating Energy Contracts in 2025 with Capacity Rate Hikes (PJM-GRID)

Navigating between Full-Requirements, Capacity Pass-Thru, and Capacity Adjustment Energy Products in 2025: What You Need to Know

PJM Capacity Rate Hike 2025

Undertanding the Impact and How Ananta Can Help

Merrill's Market Overview

Bullish Market Overview

Maryland Price to Compare and Utility Increases 2024

Maryland Price to Compare and Utility Increases 2024

Historical Price to Compare Electricity Rates in Ohio

Historical Price to Compare Electric Rates in Ohio

What is an LED Shoebox Light? A Comprehensive Overview

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Benefits of LED Shoebox Lights

Long Lifespan

Superior Light Quality

Durability and Reliability

Environmental Impact

Applications of LED Shoebox Lights

Parking Lots

Streets and Roadways

Sports Complexes

Commercial and Industrial Facilities

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Initial Investment vs. Long-Term Savings

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LED Technology Advancements and Features

Capacity Isn’t Just Another Line Item — It’s the Hidden Risk Most Energy Contracts Don’t Explain

Natural Gas Market Summary – March 10, 2025

What is a community aggregation program?