In a few cities, costs could double. Gas prices have spiked since last spring, and you'll need extra fuel to keep warm. At present, the outlook isn't as bad for people who use oil heat. In the Northeast, for example, consumer costs are projected to rise by 16 percent. Users of electrical heat may not see cost increases now.
Most states regulate electricity rates.
Eventually, however, utilities that use gas to produce electricity will recover, from you, the higher gas prices they have had to pay. Deregulated states such as California are passing those increases through to consumers now. One way is to ditch your gas-guzzling SUV or vanity truck. And indeed, new sales are slowing down. Another money-saver is to patch up the leaks at home.