Multi-site retail hedging splits supply across fixed-rate locks (capture stability) and real-time pricing (capture upside in flat markets). A 60-40 barbell — 60 percent fixed at 24 months, 40 percent RTP — captured most of the upside in 2024-2025 while limiting downside in cold snaps. Strategy works best for chains with 25+ sites and a procurement team that can monitor the RTP portion monthly.
Why the barbell works
A pure fixed-rate strategy locks at the contract price and captures no upside if wholesale falls. A pure RTP strategy captures upside but exposes the customer to extreme spikes.
The 60-40 barbell captures most of the RTP upside in normal years while limiting downside in spike events. The 60 percent fixed portion covers baseline; the 40 percent RTP captures market reversion.
Implementation across 25+ sites
Run the RFP for the 60 percent fixed portion 90 to 120 days before the next contract cycle. Lock 18 to 24 months at the August through October window.
Run the 40 percent RTP portion through a designated supplier with real-time invoicing. Monitor monthly; curtail or shift production during forecasted spike events.
Lock the rate before the next reset.
Seenra runs the supplier shortlist in 5 minutes. No credit pull, no on-site visit, no service interruption. Forever free for households.
Get my fixed-rate quote →Common questions
Quick answers from the editorial desk
Is 60/40 the right ratio?
When should I layer in the RTP portion?
Who is the counterparty?
Can I break the hedge if conditions change?
Further reading