I find this an interesting situation because it so clearly illustrates regulatory capture.<p>In theory, utilities are granted a monopoly because it is in the public interest to have a common infrastructure. In exchange for that monopoly they accept public oversite from the government in the form of some sort of commission or regulatory agency. And since this is all operating for the public good, the regulatory agency should adopt and enforce regulations that are in the public interest.<p>Except that in both Hawaii and Nevada (the most recent example), the regulatory bodies are adopting regulations that are actually counter to the public interest to protect the business interests of the monopoly! That can only happen when the regulatory body &quot;Switches sides&quot; and starts operating to service the interests of the regulated rather than the people who gave them the power to regulate.<p>Look for some interesting fireworks here, and perhaps some federal action.