The Difference Between Broker and Supplier – when not to shop
May 15, 2023

Energy brokers are service providers that help businesses find the most competitive prices for their energy needs. In a highly competitive market, they act as intermediaries between electricity and natural gas suppliers, helping customers get the best possible deals on their energy bills.  At a basic level, energy brokers are responsible for researching energy providers in the local area and finding the best deal for the customer. This includes vetting the supplier – reviewing customer reviews, credit-worthiness and fairness of contract terms.   Additionally, they use their knowledge of the local energy market to ensure customers get the best deal available.

Finally, an experienced broker can help businesses manage their risk by negotiating contracts with suppliers that offer flexibility or protection against price fluctuations caused by weather or other external factors. By ensuring that businesses have access to reliable sources of power at reasonable prices, brokers can save companies money while reducing risk exposure over time.

It is generally not recommended to use multiple brokers to obtain quotes for energy suppliers, as this approach can create a number of issues.

For one, using multiple brokers can cause confusion and miscommunication regarding pricing and other important details, resulting in higher costs overall.  Components like swing and line loss which could add to overall price may not be  quoted/conveyed by each broker the same – if at all.  Additionally, using multiple brokers could also lead to conflicting interests, leading to a less than optimal outcome.  Most suppliers are not willing to provide pricing to multiple brokers simultaneously.  Sometimes, it’s whatever broker was ‘first in’ or whatever broker can provide a letter of exclusivity.  Two brokers may be able to get two different prices on the same day due to discrepancies in imbedded costs/fees.

By relying on multiple brokers and attempting to find the best possible deal, companies run the risk of overpaying for their energy needs and missing out on potential savings that may be available through a single broker. Furthermore, if different brokers are used for different parts of the process, such as obtaining quotes from suppliers or negotiating terms with them, there could be discrepancies and delays which could cost time and money.  Prices very greatly from day to day and if all pricing in not quoted at the same time this could lead to inequitable comparisons.

Overall, working with a single broker is more efficient when it comes to sourcing energy supplies at reasonable prices. A single broker is better able to build trust with both suppliers and customers while understanding their needs better over time. This enables them to negotiate favorable terms on behalf of the customer while helping them feel more confident that they have access to reliable power at an affordable rate.

Therefore, it’s best practice for organizations looking to save time and money when sourcing energy supplies to stick with one experienced broker who has knowledge of local markets and trusted relationships with suppliers in order to get the best deal possible without risking any hiccups in the process.

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