The increase appeared to be driven by a 1.8 percent spike in wholesale prices, largely due to higher energy prices.

VOA: standard.2009.07.14

"During these difficult economic times, higher energy prices pose a great hardship on families struggling to make ends meet.

VOA: standard.2009.06.13

Utilities are allowed pass on their higher energy acquisition costs to consumers.

VOA: standard.2010.03.23

Unfortunately the Democratic majority in Congress is embracing a national energy tax that will lead to even higher energy prices and massive job losses for the American people,".

VOA: standard.2009.06.13