Still, smart management practices are essential not just at utilities but also at the law firms that represent them.

FORBES: Energy Companies Pursue Justice at a Fixed Cost

Forrester's Tom Gormley argues that such service providers could become the utilities of the next century, providing an essential service with all the reliability and security of the electricity or telephone company.

ECONOMIST: Computer outsourcing

No more than 50% of your take-home pay should go toward your Essential Expenses , which include housing, transportation, groceries and utilities.

FORBES: 11 Ways You're Sabotaging Your Future