A public utility is an organisation or entity that provides essential services to the public, such as electricity, water, natural gas, or telecommunications. These services are considered vital for daily living and are typically regulated by government agencies to ensure fair pricing, quality, and reliability. Public utilities may be privately owned, publicly owned by government entities, or operated as cooperatives. They are subject to regulations that govern their rates, service standards, environmental impact, safety measures, and other aspects of their operations to protect the interests of consumers and the public. Public utilities play a crucial role in infrastructure and contribute to the overall functioning of society by providing essential services to communities.
n. any organisation which provides services to the general public, although it may be privately owned. Public utilities include electric, gas, telephone, water and television cable systems, as well as streetcar and bus lines. They are allowed certain monopoly rights due to the practical need to service entire geographic areas with one system, but they are regulated by state, county and/or city public utility commissions under state laws.
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This glossary post was last updated: 29th March, 2024.
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