There are two main options companies have when purchasing energy, go directly to the provider or work with an energy broker. What are the differences between the two and what works best for your business? A provider is the energy company - the entity selling and delivering the energy you use. An energy broker is a person who works with both energy providers and consumers to negotiate deals and supply data. Do you need an energy broker to help your company understand and put energy plans and rates in place? Most likely the answer to that question is yes. Here is a closer look at the differences between what an energy provider does and what an energy consultant does.