Electricity?

ConEd's 'default' energy *supply* charge is calculated from energy market costs -- they pass through what they buy wholesale, and I think it's just calculated by multiplying from the NYISO day-ahead auction price and factoring in some adjustments from there. This means it varies and you deal with the expensive times as well as enjoying the inexpensive ones.

Their energy *delivery* charges are fixed rates for all customers, approved by the NY PSC.

If you are shopping and seeing ~$.14/kwh rates then that seems to be what the market predicts the price will be. You can always stick with ConEd's market rate offer, to gather the upside as well as the downside of price swings. (Depends significantly on natural gas and to some degree on oil.)

Anybody price out any of the ESCOs lately? Was always curious what the price differential was vs. Con-Ed but never really had the time to do the research

I think both of these points are what came up on the phone. I was told by the rep that ESCO was charging around 3 cents more than ConEd. Does that sound right? I've now gone back to ConEd's variable rate.

I just renovated a 1,200 SF apt and used dimmable LED's throughout. Bill is $30.00 a month.

I just renovated a 1,200 SF apt and used dimmable LED's throughout. Bill is $30.00 a month."

Bullshit. You're skimming off of somebody.

Try this
http://www.askpsc.com/askpsc/page/?PageAction=renderPageById&PageId=1a61f1a12b499bcd7ebe2a1bc9e3f253

How to Shop for Utility Services
As consumers, you always look for the best buy. You can now shop for electricity, natural gas, and telephone service. This section will provide you with some tips on comparing supplier offers, what all that information on your utility bill mean, what types of telephone service are available, and getting the best service for your needs.

I replaced everything with LEDs and it shaved about 30-40 dollars off my bill. That said I was away for a summer with everything unplugged (no energy vampires allowed) and just the fridge running essentially and my bill was still like $50. If you want to inspect your apt to see what is costing you I highly recommend investing in a Kill-a-Watt meter.

Thanks! I actually think I figured out was using so much power.

...But the resources and advice have been useful too. NYC never stops amazing me with the high cost of everything.

Thanks for the how to link. Will check it out.