OnSite Partners was founded in 2015 within American Electric Power, building on a rich legacy of over 100 years of history in the energy and utilities sector. With offices in Columbus, Ohio, and Chicago, Illinois, our team brings deep expertise in energy markets, utility rates, and on-site energy technologies. We specialize in supporting energy supply management, developing and operating distributed energy resources, and addressing key business needs such as resiliency, utility cost optimization, sustainability, and decarbonization planning and execution.
Tell us more about your role as SVP Client Solutions and Business Operations. What makes Chicago such an important part of OnSite Partners (OSP)?
In my role as leader of Client Solutions and Business Operations at OnSite Partners, it is my responsibility to ensure that each client we work with receives a comprehensive energy solution, tailored precisely to their needs, and delivered flawlessly every day. In our work with commercial, industrial, and institutional clients we use cutting edge data analytics, wide and deep energy market expertise, and in depth knowledge of energy consumption and behind-the-meter technologies to customize energy solutions for a meaningful impact on business operations. Specific solutions that OSP delivers to clients include:
Energy Supply Procurement and Risk Management: OSP offers comprehensive strategy development and execution services, including product structuring, strategic procurement, and hands-on contract negotiation as a steward for our clients. Leveraging robust market analytics and deep expertise in Midwestern power and gas markets, OSP ensures optimized energy procurement strategies. Our team, with over two decades of senior leadership experience in the energy industry, brings a unique level of industry insight to each project.
Energy Efficiency Programs & Behind-the-Meter Solutions: OSP specializes in creating and managing customized energy efficiency programs aimed at reducing consumption, enhancing operational performance, and driving significant cost reductions. Our services include advanced energy audits, the installation of efficient lighting and HVAC systems, on-site renewable energy generation, demand response programs, energy storage solutions, and the integration of innovative technologies to maximize energy performance and sustainability.
Our behind-the-meter solutions also support our clients’ sustainability and resiliency needs and objectives. We offer funding and ownership services for on-site solar projects, as well as turnkey installation, operation, and optimization of back up generation solutions.
Utility Data and Cost Management: OSP provides in-depth utility billing analysis and payment services, data management, along with reporting and analyses to identify cost-saving opportunities, detect billing discrepancies, and optimize energy expenditures. Through advanced analytics, we support accurate utility cost tracking, budgeting, forecasting, and the streamlining of administrative processes to improve efficiency.
Energy Sustainability: OSP helps clients craft and implement effective sustainability strategies, including renewable energy sourcing, carbon footprint analysis, sustainability reporting, and on-site renewable energy solutions. Our holistic approach ensures alignment with sustainability goals and industry best practices, delivering tangible environmental and financial benefits.
I’m personally committed to OnSite’s presence, growth, and impact in Chicago, driven by my love of the city and my belief in its depth and dynamism. In my mind Chicago is the greatest city in the county, and we are proud of our presence here.
Beyond that, Chicago stands out as a prime hub for competitive energy businesses, thanks to its position as the largest city and economy in the Midwest, and its long history of competitive energy options for businesses and organizations in the region. The city’s significant energy demand makes it an attractive market for suppliers, resulting in lower prices and a wider range of options for businesses to select energy rates that align with their needs.
Additionally, Chicago’s thriving workforce of 5 million, coupled with growth in key sectors like technology, professional services, and healthcare, strengthens its energy market. The city’s growing commitment to renewable energy further enhances its competitive energy environment, offering businesses more sustainable and cost-effective energy solutions.
What motivated you to start advisory services?
Making major energy decisions can be incredibly challenging, particularly for those doing so for the first time. The complexity of energy markets, coupled with the need to balance cost, sustainability, and long-term goals, can make it difficult to navigate the right path forward.
Our clients inspired the direction of our business. Initially, we were focused on addressing specific needs, such as energy supply and distributed energy resources (DER), but over time, we recognized the broader, more complex energy challenges our clients faced. As their needs evolved, so did our approach, expanding to offer a comprehensive suite of solutions that align with their overall energy goals and objectives.
With your extensive experience, what are some key insights you would offer to business owners to help them avoid potential pitfalls in energy?
1. The Importance of Strategic Energy Procurement: Balancing Needs with Market Opportunities
Understanding when, what, and how much energy to procure is critical for optimizing your business’s energy strategy. Many organizations simply put not enough time or attention to these matters, and can end up overpaying by a lot, or being caught in very unfavorable market conditions that can stick with them for a long time.
By aligning procurement decisions with your operational needs, and by establishing a comprehensive and rigorous energy supply management program, you can ensure reliable energy supply while also managing your costs effectively. In markets where shopping for energy suppliers is possible, like in Illinois, actively managing your position in the market can help you make wise choices, secure competitive rates and reduce costs. This approach not only satisfies your current energy demands but also positions your business to take advantage of market fluctuations, driving long-term financial efficiency.
2. Managing Risk in Energy Markets: The Value of Timely Decisions and Monitoring
In volatile energy markets, effective risk management is crucial for maintaining a healthy bottom line. Timely decision-making and continuous market monitoring are essential in mitigating exposure to price spikes and supply shortages. Staying proactive with peak shaving opportunities—such as reducing energy consumption during periods of high demand—can have a substantial impact on controlling operational costs. By implementing these practices, businesses can navigate market uncertainty and enhance overall financial performance.
3. Enhancing Facility Efficiency: Strategies for Sustainable Savings and Revenue Generation
Improving the energy efficiency of your facilities is a powerful way to reduce operational costs and boost profitability. The key is to implement strategies that minimize disruption, maintain financial flexibility, and deliver long-term savings. Additionally, many businesses can unlock new revenue opportunities by participating in external programs offered by government organizations, grid operators, and utilities. These programs can provide incentives, rebates, or compensation for energy savings, turning efficiency improvements into a revenue-generating asset for your business.
How do you ensure that clients are receiving the care they need?
We act as our clients’ trusted energy solutions partner, collaborating closely with them to provide comprehensive energy strategies. The effectiveness of our delivery here is supported by our Client Program Management team based here in Chicago. This team
works with our clients every step of the way – from the initial stages of our engagement, through each phase of delivery, and long-term optimization of strategy and results.
Leveraging our deep market knowledge, technical expertise, and strong deal structuring capabilities, we simplify complex energy programs, enabling our clients to achieve tangible results and optimize their energy management.
Through our strategic Advisory Services, we provide comprehensive solutions in energy supply management, decarbonization, and utility data and cost management across client sites nationwide. We serve a wide range of industries, including retail, healthcare, manufacturing, automotive, industrial, energy, finance, and federal government, among others. Our Advisory Services have consistently achieved significant cost savings for clients while supporting their sustainability goals and initiatives.
Learn more about Onsite Partners, LLC.