In my local area the electric companies offer certain programs that if used correctly can save hundreds. My area it's called SmartHours, they bring you a touchscreen thermostat for free when you sign up. This program has the electric company reading the meter gage for your specific household and not being totaled up as a neighborhood and averaged out. I have loved it, my normal bill runs anywhere from $200-$300 a month during summer and $100-$200 in the cooler months. With this program it stays around $100-$130 in the summer and about $40-$60 during the winter. Calling and asking what programs they offer or what the best ranges to leave your thermostat at during particular times of the day, can greatly effect the bill. I have my AC off during the "peak hours" 2-7, which are considered the hottest part of the day, and that alone saved me a hundred or so.
