I don't know how everybody else gets their nests, but I pay flat rate for power and my power company gives them out for free because it works out cheaper for them in the long run. So no, I probably wouldn't pay extra for a nest thermostat and the small amount of convenience it offers, but I like having it.
Once the Nest API gets more mature, watch power companies give these out with the ability to remotely turn your A/C up if the power grid starts to sag (that whole "rush hour" concept they're pushing).
