Who Holds the Power: Demystifying and Democratizing Public Utilities Commissions
Public Utilities/Public Service Commissions hold vast decision-making responsibilities and power over the energy, water, telecommunications, and sometimes transportation resources that are generated and consumed in our communities.
But who are the people who make up these Commissions? Do they really have the best interest of communities at heart? Do they truly understand the needs of communities most impacted by fluctuating utility costs, proximity to unhealthy power plants, and crumbling infrastructure?
A timely new report, Who Holds the Power: Demystifying and Democratizing Public Utilities Commissions demystifies these critical entities, whose missions are tied to our environmental and economic health. Importantly, it shows how we can ensure that Public Utilities/Public Service Commissions reflect and represent the interests of those they serve.
Resource Details
Related resources (by topic)
Just Energy
“Just Energy” is a podcast collaboration between Dr. Sanya Carley, an energy justice professor at Indiana University’s O’Neill School, and her master of public affairs students. Here they explore what energy (in)justice is, its racial and social dimensions, and how…
L.A. Co-Op Lab
LA Co-op Lab works to increase democratic economic power among low-income individuals and communities of color in the Los Angeles area by offering education, technical assistance, and non-extractive loans to advance worker ownership.
Local Clean Energy Alliance
The Local Clean Energy Alliance works to promote the equitable development and democratization of local renewable energy resources as key to addressing climate change and building sustainable and resilient communities.
Madison Workers Cooperative (MadWorC)
MadWorC is a membership organization of worker-owned and operated cooperatives and their supporters. Our mission is to support and build the solidarity economy in the Madison area by promoting worker ownership and democratically controlled workplaces. We provide cooperative education, development…
Help us expand the Resource Hub
Share resources that you think would be a good addition to this tool and our team will review them for inclusion in future updates.