Well our house just went through a power outtage 2 days ago, and my frd's house has been out in Rosemead from yesterday until now. With the heat wave ,the power crisis (I think we're still in stage I, correct me if i'm wrong), and rolling blackouts forcast in the near future. I've decided to do something about it and bought an evaporative fan (since my a/c sucks anyways). These things are like fans w/ cold water, so it can supposed to lower your room temperature from 12 to 15 degrees F. with a power consumption equivalent to a light bulb. Hopefully this would help.
http://www.adobeair.com/