The Public Power Family
The Public Power Family
There are four types of consumer-owned utilities: rural electric cooperatives, PUDs, munis, and mutuals. All are non-profit utilities committed to providing the highest level of service to consumers.
Rural Electric Cooperatives
Rural electric cooperatives (electric co-ops) began bringing power to rural communities with the signing of the Rural Electrification Act by President Franklin Roosevelt in 1936. A locally elected board of directors regulates an electric co-op by setting rates and policies for the utility. This board is elected at the electric co-op's annual meeting.
Public or People's Utility Districts
Public or People's Utility Districts (PUDs) are like government agencies that serve a defined area. PUDs are regulated by commissioners or board members who live within the PUD service territory, and are elected on the state's general election ballot. PUDs are unique to the states of Washington and Oregon. Washington uses the word Public, while Oregon calls them People's Utility Districts.
Municipal Systems
Municipal Systems (munis) are government entities formed to provide non-profit electric service. Their service territory is usually a city and its adjacent suburbs. Munis are regulated by city councils, or special utility boards that hold regularly scheduled business meetings. Council or board members are elected on the general election ballot, or may be appointed by the mayor.
Mutual Power Companies
Mutual Power companies (mutuals) began approximately 75 years ago. Like electric co-ops, mutuals are regulated by a local board of directors that are elected at an annual meeting. Mutuals are self-financed and not connected to any federal government program, although they can access the same private money as electric co-ops for loans.
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