Private utility companies are failing the public by every available metric. Public power utilities can make electricity more affordable, greener, and democratic for all.
We build transparent, open-source tools to help public power advocates model the benefits of public ownership using publicly available finance, ownership, and legal data.
We support local organizers with developing and leading campaigns with tried-and-true organizing methods like deep canvassing, backed by our network of grassroots, political and environmental justice organizations.
Our team of experts provide historical and contemporary knowledge, global best practices, and policy analysis to support active campaigns pursuing paths to community ownership, faster renewable deployment, and local control.
We guide and shape the national narrative around public power and raise comprehension of our utility systems through mass communications, whitepapers, earned media coverage, and movement teach-ins.
Over 2,000 public power utilities serve more than 54 million people across the country in cities and towns of all sizes.
Huntsville Utilities provides electric, gas and water services to all of Madison County and a portion of Marshall and Jackson counties. Three local customers appointed by the Huntsville City Council serve on the Board of the utility to ensure democratic input. In 2023, the Mayor established the city’s Environmental Sustainability Committee to support expanding clean energy and environmental justice.
Serving the city of Lansing and the region beyond, the Lansing Board of Water & Light (BWL) is the largest public utility in Michigan. The Board of Commissioners is made up of eight local customers from Lansing and three from the greater area. BWL is aiming for 50% clean energy by 2030 and to be fully carbon neutral by 2040.
The Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) owns and operates a large, regional grid that serves 84 of Nebraska’s 93 counties. The customers of NPPD elect all 11 members of the Board of Directors, one of the examples of public democracy in public utilities. It is aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2050.
Established by the California Municipal Utility District Act, the Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD) serves the city of Sacramento and surrounding counties as well as several power plants. SMUD customers elect all 7 members of the Board of Directors and have committed to SMUD leading the nation with a plan for zero carbon from its operations by 2030.
The nation’s largest public power organization, the New York Power Authority (NYPA) services entities ranging from rural cooperatives to the Metropolitan Transport Authority. Its Board of Trustees is appointed by the Governor with confirmation by the state Senate. The Build Public Renewables Act commits NYPA to helping New York reach its goals of 70% renewable generation by 2030 and 100% zero emissions by 2040.
