Businesses Turn to Consultants to Rethink Energy Expenses
May 22, 2008
By VAL CLIFTON
Houston Community Newspapers
vclifton@hcnonline.com
When Caldwell Companies needed assistance placing energy contracts for their portfolio of commercial properties, they brought in an outsider.
They called on Windrose resident Brian Dafferner’s company, GSE Consulting, which handles energy procurement for commercial and industrial companies.
“Because of his experience, he was able to customize some products for us where we would have some flexibility,” said Caldwell Companies General Counsel, Brad Fishman. “The more flexibility you have to control your costs with fluctuating market rates, the easier it is to control your operating costs. “
Natural gas prices have caused a rise in electricity prices, with a 40 percent increase that has held steady for almost four months. As a result of the escalating prices, many business owners are rethinking their energy procurement strategies.
By using an energy consultant or broker, businesses can leverage the experience and market knowledge that only a company with day-to-day market interaction can provide.
“It helps us by saving us a lot of money because Brian uses his buying power and knowledge to help us find the best rates available,” said Fishman. “It saved us a lot of time having someone represent us out there.”
GSE gives their clients the market info and runs comparisons of electrical providers to help them evaluate the best price, pricing structure. They then evaluate the retail electric providers in preparation for negotiating a desired contract.
“Once the transaction takes place, we become the liaison between the companies,” Dafferner said.
Dafferner said there was only a need for energy consultants inside the industry prior to the deregulation. Now that there are more choices available, employees must be knowledgeable enough to make energy decisions for their company.
“It’s a lot for someone to take on,” Dafferner said. “Right now if you make the wrong decision, you can put your company out of business.”
Dafferner said like in any market, people react on fear and greed. When the market is volatile and prices go up, his services are in greater demand. Businesses call on him so that they can achieve their desired budget.
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