Radiant Barrier
Radiant barrier insulation looks like foil paper, is a relatively low cost way to keep the attic temperatures down during summer months and can pay for itself in a few years when the heating and cooling system and/or transfer is through the attic area. Most homes in hotter climates like Florida, Arizona, and Texas are treated with Radiant Barrier insulation systems in addition to blown insulation in the attic.
An excellent case can be made for the application of Radiant Barriers in all but the coldest climates; much of the government research was done in Knoxville. The application of the barrier will noticeably cool the attic during summer while reducing electric consumption for air conditioning. You can understand Radiant Barrier Insulation systems better by visiting www.ornl.gov/sci/roofs+walls/radiant/index.html on the web.