For businesses in Texas Forest Country, managing energy costs isn’t just about keeping the lights on—it’s about protecting profits, staying competitive, and ensuring long-term sustainability. With rising energy prices, unpredictable weather, and the complexities of the ERCOT energy market, many business owners face unique challenges when it comes to electricity.
Understanding these challenges and knowing how to tackle them can make a significant difference in both reducing operational costs and improving energy efficiency. Here are the three biggest energy challenges Texas businesses face today—and how they can take control of their energy strategy.
- Rising Energy Costs and Market Volatility
One of the biggest challenges businesses face is the unpredictability of electricity prices in the Texas deregulated energy market. Because ERCOT (Electric Reliability Council of Texas) operates on a supply-and-demand model, electricity prices can fluctuate, sometimes dramatically, depending on the season, weather conditions, and overall market demand.
What Causes Price Volatility?
- Summer heatwaves & winter freezes that drive up demand.
- Grid instability & high consumption periods that cause price surges.
- Changing fuel costs, particularly natural gas, which impacts wholesale electricity prices.
How Businesses Can Overcome This Challenge:
- Switch to a Fixed-Rate Plan: Instead of being subject to unpredictable spikes, businesses can lock in a fixed electricity rate that stays consistent, even during peak demand periods.
- Shop for Better Rates: Many businesses unknowingly stay on higher-priced contracts simply because they haven’t reviewed their energy plan in a while.
Pro Tip: Energy experts like Amerigy Energy work with over 50 electricity providers and can help businesses secure the best fixed-rate plans to protect against price fluctuations.
- High Energy Consumption and Waste
Many businesses are paying more for electricity than they should simply because they aren’t using energy as efficiently as possible. Hidden inefficiencies such as outdated HVAC systems, poor insulation, and unnecessary electricity usage during peak hours all contribute to wasted energy and higher bills.
Common Causes of Energy Waste:
- Running equipment after hours when not needed.
- Using inefficient lighting like older fluorescent or incandescent bulbs.
- Cooling or heating unoccupied areas unnecessarily.
How Businesses Can Reduce Energy Waste:
- Schedule an Energy Audit: Many businesses don’t realize how much energy they’re wasting until they see a detailed energy analysis.
- Upgrade to LED Lighting: LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy and last much longer than traditional lighting.
- Use Smart Meters to Track Usage: Business owners can sign up for a free Smart Meter Texas account at SmartMeterTexas.com to monitor their energy usage in 15-minute intervals and identify areas where they can cut back.
- Power Reliability and Backup Solutions
Texas businesses know that severe weather and unexpected grid strain can cause power outages, sometimes lasting for hours or even days. Whether it’s a summer storm, a winter freeze, or extreme grid demand, a sudden power loss can mean:
- Lost revenue due to business disruptions.
- Equipment damage from power surges.
- Food spoilage for restaurants and grocery stores.
- Data loss or system failures for offices and technology-driven businesses.
How Businesses Can Improve Power Reliability:
- Invest in Backup Power Solutions: Backup generators and battery storage systems can help businesses stay operational during grid outages.
- Consider Solar + Battery Storage: Installing solar panels with battery backup allows businesses to generate and store their own electricity, providing an additional layer of protection against grid failures.
Pro Tip: MCF Solar, a local solar company affiliated with Amerigy Energy, specializes in solar + battery storage solutions that can help businesses reduce grid dependence and keep power running when it matters most.
What Texas Businesses Can Do Right Now
Navigating the Texas energy market can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s locking in a fixed-rate plan, improving energy efficiency, or exploring solar + battery solutions, taking control of your energy strategy can reduce costs and improve reliability.
Simple Steps to Get Started:
Review Your Energy Plan: Don’t stay locked into an outdated contract. Compare current options to ensure you’re getting the best rate.
Monitor Usage with Smart Meters: Sign up for Smart Meter Texas and start tracking your energy use in real time.
Consider an Energy Audit: Identifying waste and inefficiencies now can lead to major savings down the road.
Plan for Power Outages: Explore solar + battery storage to keep your business running during unexpected outages.
Local experts like Amerigy Energy help businesses across Texas secure the best energy rates, reduce waste, and improve power reliability. Contact them today to get a free consultation and take control of your energy future! 877-631-8875
This article is part of our ongoing series to help Texas Forest Country businesses make informed choices about energy, sustainability, and smart operations.
