Definition

Noun: A public utility is a company that provides essential services to the public, such as electricity, water, natural gas, or telecommunications. These services are considered fundamental to daily life and economic activity. Because they often operate as natural monopolies, public utilities are typically subject to government regulation to ensure fair pricing, reliability, and universal access.

Examples

• The local public utility announced a scheduled power outage for maintenance next week.
• Rates for water service are set by the state commission that oversees the public utility.
• Investing in infrastructure is a major challenge for any public utility.

Advanced Usage

• "To be regulated as a public utility": This phrase describes the legal and economic status of a company, emphasizing government oversight.
  • The debate centered on whether broadband internet providers should be regulated as public utilities.

Variants and Related Words

• Utility Company (n): A common synonym for a public utility.
  • Please contact your utility company to report the gas leak.
• Public-Service Corporation (n): A more formal term with the same meaning.
• Utility (n): In casual or economic contexts, "utility" can be used as a shortened form, though it is less precise.
  • The storm caused widespread utility outages.

Synonyms

• Service provider (in a regulated, essential context)
• Essential services company

Related Phrases

• Public Utility Commission (PUC): The government body responsible for regulating public utilities.
  • The Public Utility Commission approved a modest rate increase for consumers.

Noun

1. a company that performs a public service; subject to government regulation