Back in 2005 (or around that time), it was announced that Pennsylvania would be lifting the energy price cap on energy utilities. Normally, under a multi-competitive system (a free market), price caps wouldn't be necessary. However, chances are if you're like me, you get served by one and only one electric company: PP&L. Given the current economic downturn combined with Pennsylvania's severe loss of jobs starting with NAFTA, this cap removal seems like a very bad idea.
http://www.sciencefriday.com/blog/index.php?/archives/237-Deregulation-Trepidation.htmlhttp://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-b1_5ppl.6738697jan09,0,5790055.storyAccording to the latter article, a 36% price hike is to be expected when the cap is lifted. We should get some ideas in and start writing to our representatives and news stations before 2009 ends. Otherwise, we could end up with people not being able to pay their electric bills.