The reverse auction energy program works much the same way as e-Bay, except instead of bidding the price up, the goal is to bid the price down. An energy deal is presented for auction based on the customer's specified terms. Suppliers then bid directly against each other electronically during a pre-specified bidding period for the right to service that deal. The lowest-priced bidder wins, thus ensuring that the customer gets the best possible deal for saving on their energy cost while expending the least amount of time and effort on their part.