Remember $3-a-gallon gas and $78-a-barrel oil? If 2006 was the year of energy highs, 2007 promises less drama. Oil and natural gas prices have already softened this fall, but don't expect another round of big price drops.
Increasing global demand and stagnating supply will keep energy markets tight. "In this market, one production disruption or a severe winter can cause prices to skyrocket again," says Kevin Petak of the consulting firm Energy and Environmental Analysis.
To save at the pump, be smart at the wheel. For every pound per square inch your tires are under-inflated, you cut mileage by 1% to 2%. Save up to 30% by replacing dirty spark plugs and air filters. Accelerating and braking quickly lowers your highway gas mileage by 33%. At home, plug leaks. Install a programmable thermostat and shave 10% off your bill. See fueleconomy.gov and energysavers.gov for more tips.
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