More than 2,000 communities in the United States are served by public power utilities. These utilities typically provide electric, water, or gas service. Similarly, there are over 900 electric cooperatives that cover more than half of the nation’s landmass and serve more than 40 million people. Both public power utilities and electric cooperatives are vital parts of local economies, as they have a strong focus on serving their communities. Electric power grid and water services are delivery systems that interface to each home and business in a community. Historically, the utilities’ primary concern was the delivery of reliable power and water to its customers. However, the utility landscape is changing due to technical and societal drivers.
More than 2,000 communities in the United States are served by public power utilities. These utilities typically provide electric, water, or gas service. Similarly, there are over 900 electric cooperatives that cover more than half of the nation’s landmass and serve more than 40 million people. Both public power utilities and electric cooperatives are vital parts of local economies, as they have a strong focus on serving their communities. Electric power grid and water services are delivery systems that interface to each home and business in a community. Historically, the utilities’ primary concern was the delivery of reliable power and water to its customers. However, the utility landscape is changing due to technical and societal drivers.