Wholesale power prices have fallen significantly over the past year due to slowing economic growth in the US and China as well as concerns over debt in Eurozone nations. Lower oil and coal prices have also contributed to declines in electricity costs. While consumers have benefited from lower energy bills, fluctuating weather patterns have increased gas demand from households and small businesses. The future direction of wholesale power prices will depend on developments in the Eurozone crisis and economic performance in the US and China.