We know why we can't have cheap and efficiently delivered power in California: PG&E has no incentive to deliver such a product.
My solution is to run my servers and live life as I please (within some degree of reason), and not look at the power bill too often. In my experience, the monthly charges don't correspond with my actions attempting to reduce or increase consumption in specific categories (e.g. hottubs, servers).
With that said, I do flip off the lights when not in use :p
It depends a lot on the specific area you live in. Down here in the Peninsula, it varies by municipality and 1/4 mile+ zones. The wealthier the area, the more reliable the service. Also, tree limb falls happen.
The jaded side of me attributes this to PG&E executives not wanting to anger the elite powers that be. Atherton service has likely never been affected by the rolling brownouts in summer. Go a mile or three away and it's a very different story.
My solution is to run my servers and live life as I please (within some degree of reason), and not look at the power bill too often. In my experience, the monthly charges don't correspond with my actions attempting to reduce or increase consumption in specific categories (e.g. hottubs, servers).
With that said, I do flip off the lights when not in use :p