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What is the difference between a publicly owned and a private (or investor-owned) utility? How are water utilities different from electrical, phone and other utilities? This section answers typical questions about the organization, regulation and economic impact of these two organizational models. It also explains the role of global companies in the water industry.
Investor Ownership of Water Systems
What is an investor-owned water utility?
An investor-owned water system is a utility in which the physical assets are owned by individual shareholders. These utilities are operated as tax-paying corporate entities. Their right to distribute water, as well as rates, water quality and service levels are controlled by government regulators. More …
Foreign Ownership
In California, the people of California own and control all drinking water, regardless of who operates the local water system. The state regulates rights to distribute this water, whether the water system is operated by a city, special water district, or a private company, domestic or foreign. The core values for all water providers are to efficiently and reliably provide a high quality product. More …
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