Public utilities refer to organizations that provide essential services to the general public, typically including water, electricity, gas, sewage treatment, and telecommunications. These services are fundamental for daily living and economic activity. Public utilities can be owned by government entities or private companies but are often regulated by government agencies to ensure fair pricing, reliability, and accessibility. They are critical for infrastructure and play a key role in public health, safety, and economic development. Public utilities may operate under long-term contracts and are often required to maintain a certain level of service quality and availability.
Intense thunderstorms and lightning strikes caused widespread power outages for 13,500 AusNet customers. Affected regions included Benalla, Wodonga, Wangaratta, and Myrtleford. AusNet deployed ground crews and helicopters to assess damage…