Typically, how many customers would a small public utility serve?

A small public utility generally serves fewer than 100,000 customers. This classification aligns with the industry standards for defining the size of utilities based on their customer base. Small public utilities are often community-owned or locally focused, aiming to provide essential services to a limited area.

Utilities serving less than 50,000 customers represent the very smallest segment, while those with up to 100,000 customers are still considered small, especially in terms of operational scale and funding. The distinction is significant because it impacts the utility’s operational practices, regulatory requirements, and the resources they have available for maintenance and expansion.

Choosing the correct range helps in understanding the government regulations, funding opportunities, and resource management strategies employed by utilities of various sizes.