It's been both challenging and expensive for many Rio Grande Valley residents trying to stay cool this summer.
Texas utility regulators are calling attention to special electric rate discount programs as demand peaks during the long, hot summer.
The Texas Public Utility Commission is reminding consumers that some electric power retailers are offering prices of less than a dime per kilowatt hour.
Discounts for low-income electricity users are also being increased through August 1st to about three cents per kilowatt hour.
A PUC statement released on Wednesday about the discounts means a rate cut of 17 to 30 percent for some customers.
Valley residents can get immediate pricing information by phone at (866) 797-4839 www.powertochoose.org.