Understanding Energy Supply And Risk Tolerance Guest Series Part 2

By Jim Poad, Ecova

Over the past few years, retailers have continued to feel the effects of money spent on energy. With costs constantly on the rise, it is important for retailers to understand their energy markets and risk tolerance. While forecasters recently predicted that electricity prices would decline for the first time in seven years, they also believe oil prices will increase towards the end of 2010 due to constant growth in oil consumption. Owners need to know what options are available in regulated and deregulated markets and the risk that comes along with them.

The volatile markets and current state of the economy leave many retailers searching for ways to lower operating costs as much as possible without cutting corners within their stores. Recruiting the help of energy consultants can lift a great weight off of retailers in search of the best solutions. Many of the retailers utilizing consultants are gaining a competitive edge in today’s market, and better positioning in the future.

Be sure to catch up on Part 1, Part 3, and Part 4 of this series.