With the opening of the Free Energy Market for companies connected to medium and high voltage, various opportunities arise for businesses seeking to save on energy costs. Starting in January 2024, companies such as supermarkets, restaurants, gas stations, and condominiums, with energy bills from R$8,000, can opt for this alternative and ensure greater control over their energy expenses. However, when migrating to this market, a common question arises: which payment model to choose, Fixed Price or Guaranteed Savings?
In this article, we will explain each of these modalities, their benefits, and particularities, helping you make the best decision for your business.
What is Fixed Price?
The Fixed Price modality allows the consumer to close a contract with a defined value per megawatt-hour (MWh) from the beginning, providing predictability and security. In this model, the energy price is fixed throughout the entire contract, which usually has an average to long term and is adjusted annually only by a previously agreed index, such as the IPCA or IGP-M. With this predictability, companies can plan their budgets without major surprises, maintaining stable energy costs even with market fluctuations.
Advantages of Fixed Price:
- Predictability and stability: The fixed price allows for more efficient financial planning, as the cost is known in advance.
- No tariff flags: This modality is not subject to tariff flags that impact the regulated market, which eliminates seasonal price fluctuations.
- Transparency in charges: With a closed value, it is easier to monitor costs and understand the impact of energy on the company’s finances.
This option is ideal for companies that desire greater cost predictability and prioritize financial stability, avoiding price variation risks.
What is Guaranteed Savings?
The Guaranteed Savings modality offers a payment model where, instead of a fixed price, the consumer receives a fixed percentage discount compared to what they would pay in the regulated market, also known as the Captive Market. The discount, which can reach up to 35% depending on the consumption profile, is applied monthly, ensuring that the consumer pays less than they would in the conventional market.
However, in Guaranteed Savings, the final value of the energy bill is adjusted each month, according to the current tariffs of the distributor and market fluctuations. Thus, although it ensures savings compared to the captive market, it does not provide the same cost predictability as the Fixed Price.
Advantages of Guaranteed Savings:
- Guaranteed discount: Even with fluctuations in the energy price, the consumer knows they will be paying less than in the regulated market.
- Contractual flexibility: This model allows for easier contract adaptations, according to the company’s needs and market conditions.
- Suitability for different consumption profiles: Companies with more variable consumption profiles or those seeking flexibility in tariffs can benefit more from this modality.
Guaranteed Savings is indicated for companies that are more willing to deal with price variations and prefer to ensure a discount compared to the regulated market, without worrying so much about the monthly predictability of costs.
Comparison between Fixed Price and Guaranteed Savings
Below is a summary of the main differences between the modalities:
| Feature | Fixed Price | Guaranteed Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Predictability | Yes | No |
| Tariff Flag | No | Yes |
| Tariff Adjustment | No | Yes |
| Transparency in Charges | Yes | No |
| Fixed Energy Tariff | Yes | No |
Which Model to Choose?
The choice between Fixed Price and Guaranteed Savings depends on the company’s profile and its financial objectives. Companies that seek stability and cost predictability, such as when budget planning is critical, tend to prefer Fixed Price. On the other hand, those that are open to a certain cost variation but wish to always pay less than the regulated market may benefit more from Guaranteed Savings.
Before making a decision, it is essential to analyze:
- The company’s consumption profile: Evaluate whether consumption is more stable or varies a lot over the months.
- The current energy market scenario: In periods of high volatility, Fixed Price may offer greater security.
- Financial objectives: Define whether the company prioritizes budget predictability or wishes to maximize the discount compared to the regulated market.
Regardless of the chosen modality, migrating to the Free Energy Market allows your company to optimize energy costs, choose the supplier, and have greater control over energy expenditure.
How can Deal Comercializadora Help?
Deal Comercializadora is a company specialized in solutions for the Free Energy Market. We operate both in trading and in the wholesale and retail commercialization of energy, also offering management and specialized advisory services to ensure that your company maximizes the benefits of this transition. With Deal, you have a personalized analysis of your business needs and complete guidance to choose the best option between Fixed Price and Guaranteed Savings. Our goal is to support our clients in all stages of the process, from the initial analysis to the ongoing management of energy contracts, promoting security and real savings for your company.
Want to know more? Contact Deal Comercializadora and discover how we can help your company save and prosper in the Free Energy Market!
