What is the purpose of the Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC)?

The Public Utility Regulatory Commission (PURC) is a state executive agency of the South Dakota government. It was initially formed in 2011 to regulate and provide oversight to public utility companies throughout the state, such as electric, water, natural gas, and telecom utility companies. The primary purpose of the PURC is to protect consumers from being overcharged or underserved by these companies. The commission is also tasked with ensuring that these companies provide safe and reliable services to their customers. Additionally, the PURC is responsible for regulating and overseeing the rates that public utility companies can charge their customers. This includes the approval of new rates or changes to existing rates. The PURC also seeks to promote competition among public utility providers. This helps ensure that customers have access to the best services and prices in South Dakota. To that end, the commission regularly monitors utilities to ensure that they are providing fair services and rates throughout the state. The PURC works diligently to keep public utilities accountable. By regulating and overseeing these companies, the commission serves as a watchdog ensuring that the interests of consumers are being met.

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