Welcome to your weekly energy market update from GWT2Energy. We monitor the latest trends in natural gas, electricity, and global energy markets to help restaurant operators make informed decisions and protect their margins.

Key Market Developments

Brent Crude Oil Spot Prices Surge

The Dated Brent spot price increased to a premium of more than $25 per barrel compared with the front-month Brent futures contract in early April. This high backwardation reflects extreme market tightness in the very short term since the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. Buyers are scrambling to secure volumes to replace obstructed shipments, which is better represented in spot market prices than in futures contracts. [3]

Natural Gas Storage Near Five-Year Average

The Lower 48 U.S. states began the natural gas injection season (April–October) with 1,890 billion cubic feet (Bcf) of working natural gas in storage. This level is 3% above the previous five-year average and 3% above last year’s end-of-season storage volume. Slower withdrawals due to milder weather in February and March helped bring inventories back above the five-year average threshold. [4]

Utility Rate Hikes Continue

Utility rate hikes continue to impact commercial customers. For example, DTE Energy proposed a 7.6% rate hike ($474.3M) that would add \~$9.39/month to residential bills starting 2027, tied to data center revenue. [5]

Restaurant Impact & Strategy

Energy costs remain a significant pressure point for restaurant operators. With commercial electricity rates up 5.0% year-over-year and significant regional variations (e.g., Northeast rates at 25.63¢/kWh), managing energy expenses is critical.

Quick Efficiency Tip of the Week: As we approach the summer cooling season, now is the time to schedule preventative maintenance for your HVAC and refrigeration systems. Clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure proper airflow to maximize efficiency and prevent costly breakdowns during peak demand periods.

How GWT2Energy Can Help

Are you operating in a deregulated energy market? You could be saving 15–30% on your energy bills by switching suppliers. [2]

GWT2Energy’s proprietary reverse auction bid software forces energy suppliers to compete for your business, ensuring you get the lowest possible rate. We handle the entire procurement process, from analyzing your usage to negotiating contracts, so you can focus on running your restaurant.

Contact us today for a free energy analysis:

• Email:info@gwt2energy.com​
• Phone: 404.919.1464
• Website:www.gwt2energy.com​

References

[1] Natural Gas Intelligence. “Midmorning Markets: Can Technical Ceilings Hold for Natural Gas Futures?” April 27, 2026. [2] Electric Choice. “Electricity Prices by State.” April 2026. [3] U.S. Energy Information Administration. “Brent crude oil spot prices surge past futures price in April.” Today in Energy, April 24, 2026. Link [4] U.S. Energy Information Administration. “Natural gas inventories at the end of winter heating season were near five-year average.” Today in Energy, April 21, 2026. Link [5] Planet Detroit. “DTE Energy proposes rate hike tied to data centers.” April 24, 2026.

This newsletter is published weekly for informational purposes. Energy prices and market conditions are subject to rapid change. Contact GWT2Energy for personalized energy procurement advice.

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