|
 Whether
small, medium or large, local businesses get opportunity to buy
electricity at a lower rate
Smart business owners not only watch their revenue and profit lines,
but they look for ways to cut expenses. The recent rise energy costs
has made that expenditure a prime focus. Traditionally the best way
to control energy costs has been to look for ways to reduce
consumption. But now it has become important to consider another
aspect of energy control, procurement
Ameren and Cilco are now energy distribution companies providing the
structure to carry electricity. The electricity being supplied is
billed at a default rate. The default rate has been and will
probably continue to be higher to businesses than if the business
were to negotiate a rate from a supplier.
Problems of being too small or not familiar with the energy market
are now being eliminated by cooperatives. CQI Associates, Energy and
Management Consultants, have developed a program they are offering
to chamber of commerce’s across the nation. Bonnie Grady was asked
to come present the program to Lincoln and Logan County businesses.
Last week Grady shared a wealth of information on the history,
current market conditions and the anticipated future of energy
prices.
According to CQI statistics they have conducted over 155 energy
procurement assignments since 2000 that have included over 17,800
accounts for over 12,000 owner locations. Energy management programs
have saved clients over $950,000,000.
The majority of the chambers that are participating are in Maryland
and there are several in Delaware. In Illinois CQI has established
cooperatives with the Decatur, Champaign County and Peoria Area
Chamber of Commerce’s.
[to top of second column] |
In the program being offered contracts are set up in advance and the
cooperative monitors market prices waiting for a low rate to lock
in. “Members have the option to accept or reject the final offer,”
when a price is offered, Grady said.
Any business spending over $200 a month on electricity will want to
consider this program, Grady said. She documented savings that have
been seen from the program so far.
First year
- Small businesses see a savings of 6% to 8% savings
- Mid-sized businesses, 8% to 12%
- Over 1 megawatt load, over 15%
These savings can be two to three times better following the first
year, Grady said.
The program is ideal for a wide range of participants that may not
realize it, such Dr.’s offices or municipalities. Participation in
the program is open to all chamber members. Any business can join
the chamber at a low membership fee.
The $300 program application fee is made to CQI, the company hosting
the program.
The Lincoln/Logan County Chamber of Commerce has scheduled one
additional presentation of “Buying energy in an open market.” It
will take place on Thursday, July 26 at 3:00 p.m. at the Lincoln
Park District. It is open to all businesses in the Logan County.
[Jan
Youngquist] |
