How the US energy market works: A guide for small and medium-sized businesses

Having a solid understanding of the US energy market can help you manage energy costs and set efficiency objectives for your business. World Kinect specializes in guiding businesses through the complexities of the energy market, helping you make informed decisions at every step.

This guide explores the structure of the US energy market, its evolution over time, and how its semi-deregulated nature affects your business. Understanding these factors can help you take advantage of competitive pricing and avoid unnecessary costs.

The US energy market: A changing landscape

From regulation to competition

In the early 20th century, the energy market in the US was fully regulated, with state utility companies holding monopolies over electricity and natural gas supply. Businesses had no choice but to buy from a single supplier, with rates set by regulators. While this system ensured reliability, it also kept prices high.

By the 1970s, rising energy costs pushed policymakers to introduce competition. The 1992 Energy Policy Act allowed states to deregulate their energy markets, giving businesses the ability to choose their suppliers. Today, 16 states have deregulated electricity and natural gas markets, enabling businesses to shop around for better rates and contract terms.

How the US energy market is structured

The US energy market consists of several key players. Energy generators produce electricity or extract natural gas and sell energy on the wholesale market, where prices fluctuate based on supply and demand. 

Even in deregulated states, businesses receive energy through local utilities, which maintain the power lines and gas pipelines. These transmission and distribution charges are regulated and appear on energy bills. In deregulated states, energy suppliers, or retail providers, purchase energy at wholesale prices and sell it to businesses. Their rates vary based on market conditions and contract terms. 

Regional grid operators, known as Independent System Operators (ISOs) and Regional Transmission Organizations (RTOs), balance electricity supply and demand to ensure grid stability.

Deregulated energy markets: What it means for your business

Businesses in deregulated states benefit from competitive pricing and the ability to lock in fixed rates. One of the key advantages of deregulation is cost control. Many suppliers offer fixed-rate contracts, which protect your business from sudden price hikes. Additionally, you have the option to choose renewable energy plans, aligning with your business’ sustainability goals.

Another significant benefit is increased supplier competition. More competition means better rates and greater flexibility in contract terms. For example, Texas businesses in deregulated areas have seen electricity prices decrease over the last decade, while regulated markets have experienced price increases.

The US electricity market: Key factors impacting pricing

Electricity prices are influenced by several factors:

• The price of natural gas, a major electricity source, significantly affects electricity rates.
• Infrastructure investments, such as grid upgrades and maintenance costs, also impact pricing.
• Federal and state regulatory policies, including environmental regulations, further influence supplier costs.
• Supply and demand fluctuations also drive electricity prices.
• Extreme weather events, peak usage periods, and power plant availability contribute to price changes. 

The US energy market is currently being impacted by several objectives that may affect the long-term future electricity prices. The most recent US administration’s clean energy push aimed to achieve a carbon-free power grid by 2035, has led to increased investment in renewable energy and grid modernization. 

While renewables such as wind and solar offer long-term cost savings, the transition requires significant upfront infrastructure spending, potentially raising short-term costs.

Additionally, regulatory changes, including potential tariffs on imported electricity and domestic energy policies, could drive price volatility. For example, new tariffs on Canadian electricity imports may impact businesses in states which rely on Canadian hydroelectric power.

If your business is in a deregulated state, you can choose pricing structures that fit your needs, such as fixed-rate plans for budget stability, variable-rate plans that fluctuate with the market, and time-of-use plans that offer lower rates during off-peak hours.

Contact World Kinect today to find out how we can help you reduce risks.  

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The US natural gas market: Understanding price influences

Natural gas plays a crucial role in business energy costs, particularly for heating and electricity generation. Several factors influence natural gas prices, and monitoring these can help businesses predict price changes and plan their energy usage effectively. 

• Seasonal demand. Prices typically rise in the winter due to increased heating needs.
• Storage and supply levels also affect costs, as limited storage can drive prices higher.
• Global market trends, such as increased US liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports, impact domestic prices.
• Regulations on methane emissions and drilling restrictions can affect supply and pricing. 

Fixed-rate contracts can help businesses avoid sudden price increases by locking in rates. If your business is in a deregulated state, you can select from different pricing structures, including fixed-rate plans that provide stability and index pricing that fluctuates based on market conditions. These offer potential savings but with risk.

Renewable energy options for US businesses

Businesses in deregulated markets can choose suppliers that offer renewable energy plans. Wind and solar energy are available through power purchase agreements (PPAs) or green energy contracts, while hydropower and biomass serve as reliable renewable sources in certain regions.

For businesses aiming to offset their carbon footprints, Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) are an option. With increasing investment in clean energy, businesses can take advantage of stable, long-term renewable energy pricing while reducing their environmental impact.

Key energy terms you should know

To navigate the energy market effectively, it’s helpful to understand some key terms:

• Deregulation refers to the process of allowing competition in energy markets, giving businesses the option to choose their suppliers.
• Kilowatt-hour (kWh) measures electricity consumption and is commonly used in billing.
• British Thermal Unit (BTU) is a measure of heat energy used for natural gas pricing.
• Tariff is the rate structure set by suppliers and utilities for energy services.

How World Kinect can help

Managing energy procurement can be complex, but working with an energy broker like World Kinect simplifies the process. An experienced broker can compare supplier rates to find the best deals tailored to your business needs. They also assist with managing contract terms, helping businesses avoid hidden fees and ensuring flexible contract options.

Monitoring market trends is another key service brokers provide, allowing businesses to lock in contracts at the best possible time to maximize savings. Additionally, brokers handle supplier switching, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal disruption to operations.

With over 30 years of experience, World Kinect has strong relationships with more than 40 suppliers US-wide and manages thousands of energy contracts annually, ensuring competitive rates for businesses like yours.