Utility Rates Surge Around the U.S.

Some utilities offer "demand management" programs to encourage use of electricity during off-peak times, or will seasonally adjust bills to spread out the high summer prices over the full year.

But such programs don't guarantee lower prices either. For the time being, consumers can only lower their bills by conserving energy: So, it might be best to turn off the power-sucking air conditioners and opt for more efficient appliances and bulbs.