HERE’S THE BAD NEWS.

It’s becoming clear that energy prices have bottomed out and are beginning to rise again. Coronavirus shutdowns, more workers staying at home, and reduced travel all lowered demand, hiding this trend to some extent.

However, several factors will raise prices worldwide and right here in Northwest Illinois:

• Higher energy demand in countries recovering from coronavirus. The U.S. Energy Information Administration predicts an 18% rise in crude oil prices alone.
• Presidential policies will increase your bill. Trump administration regulation changes make it more likely that fossil fuel plants will take over for nuclear plants, while Biden is likely to take action against fracking.
• An analysis by The Sun Times found the average Illinois residential user will pay $70 more per year if the Byron and Dresden nuclear plants shut down. If residential customers are paying that much more, imagine what it will be like for heavy industrial users!

HERE’S THE GOOD NEWS.

We help industrial businesses increase their profitability with better energy technology. We can help you develop customized options that get you ahead of the energy cost curve.

• Changing your lighting technology can slash your power bills and reduce your maintenance expenses, too. LEDs use less power and need to be replaced far less often than traditional technologies. They handle vibration better, too.
• New controls help you use lighting more efficiently, ensuring it’s only used when needed and adapts to the amount of natural light available.
• Get assistance locking in rates that will keep your power expense steady for years, and in qualifying for rebates and other incentives.
• Supplement your electrical service with solar panels. Beginning your project in 2020 will qualify you for tax incentives that are due to decline sharply in the future.