That is an option I didn't mention, but since I have a dedicated 20 amp circuit for the attic, I'd really like to make use of it, rather than putting more strain on other circuits. There's also not a grounded outlet near the attic hatch (it's an old house and only a few outlets are 3-prong), so I'd probably have to run it out a window or through the air ducts, either of which will look a little obvious.

From what I understand, replacing a light fixture with an outlet is simply a matter of unscrewing a plate, switching the three wires (black, white, and bare/green) from the fixture to the outlet, and then screwing the new plate on. That seems like the better option to me. I mean I took a semester of Circuits before I changed majors way back in college, so I vaguely understand all the principles. I was hoping someone on here might have experience with this sort of thing and be able to confirm that this is as easy as it looks to be. Anyone?