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Oregon Universal Service Fund

About Us
Mission Statement
 
"Ensure that safe and reliable utility services are provided to consumers at just and reasonable rates while fostering the use of competitive markets to achieve these objectives"

 

Organization
The Public Utility Commission of Oregon (PUC) regulates customer rates and services of the state's investor-owned electric, natural gas and telephone utilities; and certain water companies.  The Commission does not regulate people's utility districts, cooperatives or municipally-owned utilities except in matters of safety.  The PUC ensures consumers receive utility service at fair and reasonable rates, while allowing regulated companies the opportunity to earn an adequate return on their investment. 
 
The PUC is divided into several sections:
  • The Utility Program
Research, analysis and technical support makes sure regulated companies provide safe, reliable and high-quality service at reasonable rates.  Their efforts also promote effective competition in those industries. 
  • The Residential Service Protection Fund 
Includes three telephone assistance programs that provide services to qualifying low-income or disabled Oregonians and allow those with hearing and speech disabilities to place and receive calls to and from those without disabilities. 
  • The Consumer Services Section
Provides assistance to the public in resolving concerns, conflicts and disputes with utilities. 
  • The Administration Hearings Division 
Conducts rulemaking and contested case hearings on issues concerning utility services. 
 

Telecommunications and Water Division
The Telecommunications Section is responsible for implementing a balanced program of regulation and competition aimed at encouraging innovation in the telecommunications industry, and making available throughout the State high quality telecommunications services at just and reasonable prices.