Frequently Asked Questions

What is a PUD?

A Public Utility District is a community-owned, locally regulated utility created by a vote of the people under RCW 54.

What are PUDs authorized to provide?
PUDs in Washington are authorized to provide electricity, water and sewer services, and telecommunications service. In addition, PUDs are authorized to produce and distribute renewable hydrogen and renewable natural gas. A PUD may provide one or more of these services, depending on the needs of the community.

How many PUDs are there in Washington state?
There are currently 28 PUDs. Of those, 24 provide electricity, 18 provide water or wastewater services, and 15 provide access to broadband telecommunications services, one provides renewable natural gas. 

How many customers do PUDs serve?
Public utility districts that are members of the Washington PUD Association serve close to one-million residential, business and industrial customers in more than 27 counties across Washington State. PUDs serve more than half the state geographically.

How are PUDs regulated?
PUDs are governed by a nonpartisan, locally elected board of commissioners. Commissioners are responsible for setting rates and for overseeing the operation of the PUDs. They meet in open session where members of the public can observe and participate in the decision-making process.

How long do PUD commissioners serve?
PUD commissioners are elected to serve six-year terms. A couple PUDs have five member Commissions. The five-member Boards include at large positions that serve four-year terms. Commissioner salaries are set by state law, based on the size of the utility.

Where do PUDs get their electricity?
Most PUDs purchase electricity wholesale from the Bonneville Power Administration, a federal agency that markets power generated by 31 hydroelectric dams in the Columbia River Basin. Several PUDs own and operate their own hydroelectric dams, including Chelan, Grant, Pend Oreille and Cowlitz PUDs. Many PUDs are also members of Energy Northwest.

What is Energy Northwest?
Energy Northwest is a consortium of consumer-owned utilities that owns and operates Columbia Generating Station, the state’s only commercial nuclear plant, as well as other energy projects.

PUD STATISTICS

Based on 2020 operating year - does not include Snohomish PUD

Links to WPUDA Member PUDs