As record heatwaves boost demand for cooling, air conditioning becomes vital – but with a steep environmental cost.

It's been a hot summer, and that could also mean high bills for many in western Pennsylvania. According to Duquesne Light and First Energy officials, there are ways to manage that.

A central air conditioner can use on average 3,000 watts an hour, but an air conditioner will generally cycle on for 15 minutes twice an hour. In some areas air conditioning can cost around $900 ...