I found the quote that those "on the fixed payment plans used 31 percent more power than other households." very interesting. Although, I do not believe the figure determines which comes first or what is the cause and the affect. Might the cause relate to those who choose this payment plan might have larger homes and thus higher energy usage already? Is it the plan that brings about more energy usage? Or is it the majority of those who participate in the plan use more energy to begin with? I use the cost averaging bill pay and dropped my electric bills (Duke energy) by 40%. I find that it makes me aware of how much I spend on an average yearly basis and makes me want to eke out the most savings possible. I like having set bill amounts every month; I find it easier to save more consistently. And so I choose to lower my thermostat to 65 or lower in winter and raise it to 78 and 80 in the summer. I choose not to turn on excess lights and walk around in the dark or semi-dark, disconnect any unnessary clocks, appliances, timers, VCRs, and other wall warts, run a fan only when in the room, etc.