In a recently published article in Seeking Alpha, the evolution of energy suppliers was outlined, as more U.S. states have deregulated the electricity markets allowing for greater electricity choice. Contributor Calder H. Lamb, who has worked as an energy consultant, noted that deregulation has led to a consequential increase in competition between energy suppliers and a new “necessity for advisory services.”

Lamb has observed an increase in the quality of customer service from smaller, independent energy suppliers, with flexible contracts and “more immediate pricing than their larger competitors.” He relayed that the smaller, privately-held companies don’t really have a sales staff and rely on energy consultants, procurement specialists, company energy managers and energy brokers. One of the reasons these companies are able to offer competitive pricing is due to the decreased operating costs of a smaller company. Lamb said the growing trend in deregulated energy can also benefit investors, and he recommends investigating privately-held energy suppliers that are beating out the larger, inflexible suppliers.

Sales and marketing company FreedomFlow reported in late May that “there is an under the radar wave of opportunity in the energy industry due to energy deregulation,” which lends support to Lamb’s analysis of the industry. As the United States moves toward deregulation, energy suppliers evolve, providing attractive options to consumers and creating jobs and opportunity, the company stated.