Reply #4: I've long thought that electrical and natural gas utilities ought base rates on a progressive scale

[depakid]

Admittedly, I know next to nothing about residential rating structures. Nevertheless, it seems to me that it should take marginal utility, and price lower kilowatt hours differently per unit that it prices higher usage.

People who crank the heat and air conditioning, for example can certainly do so- but they'll have to pay a much higher premium, whereas people who use less are afforded significantly lower rates.

Won't solve the problems for people nearing bankruptcy, but it seems to me that it would encourage conservation and help some folks out who are on the periphery.