1.   Before the summer began, experts were predicting one energy blackout every four days.

2.   Chances of a statewide energy blackout dimmed Friday as power plants revved generators and Western governors vowed to bolster power-sharing agreements and conserve electricity.

3.   Energy blackouts across the former Soviet Union have caused frequent protests, including some that blocked railway lines and highways.

4.   The crisis has provoked strikes as well as vast energy blackouts, and a clash between President Boris Yeltsin and the powerful regional governor, Yevgeny Nazdratenko.

5.   The crisis has provoked strikes as well as vast energy blackouts, and concern at the very highest levels.

6.   The energy blackout is common practice during fighting between the rivals.