06-02-2013, 06:35 AM
I take a broader view: where utilities create a "natural monopoly", they need to be regulated to a "higher standard".
In the olden days, the phone company was required to bring service everywhere, even when not cost-effective ("Universal Service").
Far as I can tell, nothing is "required" of HELCO.
This is similar to the broadband situation: Oceanic has an exclusive franchise, which includes the exclusive right not to bother providing service. How is this fair to the customer?
In the olden days, the phone company was required to bring service everywhere, even when not cost-effective ("Universal Service").
Far as I can tell, nothing is "required" of HELCO.
This is similar to the broadband situation: Oceanic has an exclusive franchise, which includes the exclusive right not to bother providing service. How is this fair to the customer?