Hi Squeak, just feel lucky you didn't live in California the past few years, where we saw our energy bills skyrocket over 200%, as a result of crooked politicians & price gouging by out of state oil companies. Thankfully, after investigation and settlement, we finally got some of our money refunded and our rates reduced. In California, we are given the 'option' to choose if we want to go with an estimated pay bill system or not. I prefer & chose the pay as you go plan. - Scott