The Smarter Energy Buyer's Guide: Practical Insights for U.S. Businesses in Deregulated States

In today's volatile U.S. energy markets, one wrong move can cost your business millions. The wrong contract, the wrong supplier, or even a misunderstood electricity bill can quietly drain profits year after year. If you operate in a deregulated state, energy procurement is no longer just about paying the utility bill - it's a strategic decision that directly impacts your bottom line, risk exposure, and long-term competitiveness. The Smarter Energy Buyer's Guide is the handbook every commercial energy buyer needs. Written in plain, practical English, it is designed for finance directors, procurement managers, facility leaders, and executives who want to take control of their energy spend without becoming full-time energy traders. Whether your company spends a few hundred thousand or tens of millions of dollars annually, this book will help you cut costs, reduce risks, and make smarter decisions in deregulated markets. Inside, you'll discover how to: Cut hidden costs by understanding the true drivers of your energy bill - from demand charges and capacity costs to obscure line items most buyers overlook. Select the right supplier by moving beyond headline rates and evaluating transparency, financial stability, and contract terms that truly protect your business. Master contract types - from fixed all-in agreements to block-and-index structures - and learn how each affects your cost, flexibility, and risk profile. Manage risk with confidence, using proven procurement strategies that protect you from price spikes, seasonal volatility, and market uncertainty. Turn deregulation into a competitive advantage, instead of a liability, by leveraging choice to secure better terms and align contracts with your business goals. Integrate sustainability into procurement, with clear explanations of renewable energy certificates (RECs), green tariffs, and power purchase agreements (PPAs). Unlike technical manuals written for energy insiders, this guide speaks directly to business leaders. It simplifies complex topics without dumbing them down, giving you the confidence to negotiate contracts, question suppliers, and make informed choices. Real-world examples show how companies of all sizes can lower costs, reduce risk, and even use energy strategy to support corporate sustainability targets. Why this guide matters now: Energy markets across the U.S. have become more volatile, with prices driven by fuel costs, extreme weather, and regulatory changes. At the same time, regulators and stakeholders are placing new demands on businesses to reduce emissions and demonstrate ESG leadership. The combination of rising risk and rising expectations means energy buying can no longer be treated as an afterthought. The stakes are higher - but so are the opportunities for those who know how to navigate them. About Marcus Energy: Marcus Energy helps U.S. businesses turn complexity into clarity in deregulated markets. With deep market expertise and a track record of guiding commercial buyers, Marcus Energy is trusted by executives and procurement leaders who want unbiased advice, stronger contracts, and better results. This guide distills years of hands-on market experience into practical strategies any business can apply. Whether you are renegotiating a multi-site contract, entering the market for the first time, or simply tired of being surprised by your bills, The Smarter Energy Buyer's Guide will give you the tools, insights, and confidence to take control of your energy future. Stop overpaying. Stop accepting one-sided contracts. Start buying energy on your terms.