True! Not sure it's mandatory, but stations (private and professional) are part of Civil Defense, so I'm guessing back-up power is necessary!

Jim added: We in Europe are much more controlled by government, so that you would need several months negotiation to arrange a substantial price increase, but I guess that type of from-the-cradle-to-the-grave government has its downside also.

Maybe. I THINK we did, too, up to the late '80's. But, here, in NJ, some have already been reported for gasoline price gouging! Sort of like Wall Street, take advantage of people when you can, to make money! Big Oil controls this and other countries.

Best,
John