Definitions
Clear definitions for units, delivery point, business day, force majeure, settlement period, and price indices to avoid ambiguity in calculation and performance.
A well-drafted Financial Energy Agreement reduces settlement disputes, clarifies payment and collateral obligations, and aligns commercial and regulatory risk allocation between counterparties.
Use the agreement to codify operational triggers, payment mechanics, and escalation paths so each function understands its duties and timing.
A corporate officer or other delegated individual (CFO, VP Contracts) signs on behalf of an entity. Ensure the signer has board authorization or a corporate resolution and that the signing block matches official company records to avoid enforceability issues.
Brokers or agents may execute as intermediary with documented authority. Attach a power of attorney or agency letter when signature authority is delegated to ensure third-party acceptance and to clarify liability allocation.
Clear definitions for units, delivery point, business day, force majeure, settlement period, and price indices to avoid ambiguity in calculation and performance.
Specify fixed price, index formula, or collar/strike mechanics, including reference data sources and fallback procedures for unavailable index values.
State contracted volumes, tolerances, nomination procedures, and remedies for underdelivery or overdelivery with clear measurement and metering references.
Detail invoicing cadence, netting provisions, late payment interest, and payment methods including bank details and remittance instructions.
Define initial and variation margin triggers, eligible collateral types, valuation methodology, and cure periods for margin shortfalls.
Include events of default, termination for convenience if applicable, calculation of termination damages, and procedures for close-out netting.
| Field | Configuration |
|---|---|
| Authentication Method | Email link | SMS code or KBA for higher assurance |
| Field Types | Signature, date, numeric, checkbox, conditional text fields |
| Conditional Logic | Enable conditional fields for optional schedules or exhibits |
| Audit Trail | Enable IP, timestamp, and action logs for each signer |
Ensure the chosen provider supports export of signed PDFs with embedded audit trails and long-term storage formats for legal admissibility.
Set contract effective date upon final signature to trigger obligations.
Adhere to net payment terms (e.g., Net 30) to avoid default.
Specify cure periods (e.g., 24–72 hours) for collateral shortfalls.
Provide required payee forms on request; W-9s are provided upon request.
Complete invoicing and close-out statements before calendar-year end.
Finalize commercial terms, pricing, and exhibits before signature.
Complete credit checks and collateral schedules before execution.
Obtain all signatures, notarizations, and countersignatures as required.
Archive executed copies and start settlement and invoicing cycles.
Determine whether the state or transaction requires notarization or witness signatures.
Schedule in-person or RON session if permitted by state rules and parties agree.
Select unbiased adult witnesses and confirm their willingness to sign.
For RON, retain audio-video recording per state retention rules.
Include notary acknowledgement and witness affidavits with the agreement.
Record or file any documents that require public recording per jurisdiction.
Confirm executed originals match electronic copies for retention.
Store signed documents in encrypted, access-controlled systems.
Optica standardized its agreements to reduce execution time and errors.
Xerox integrated signed agreements with ERP workflows to automate invoicing and settlements.
| signNow | DocuSign | Adobe Sign | PandaDoc | HelloSign | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting Price | $8/user/mo | $15/user/mo | $14/user/mo | $19/user/mo | $15/user/mo |
| Free Trial | 7-day free trial | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor | Varies by vendor |
| Bulk Send | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Audit Trail | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| HIPAA Compliant | Yes | Yes | Yes | No | No |