What is the primary role of a Distribution Utility?

The primary role of a Distribution Utility is to operate a Distribution System. This involves managing the infrastructure that delivers electricity from the transmission system to consumers. Distribution Utilities ensure that electricity is distributed efficiently and reliably to residential, commercial, and industrial customers. They handle the maintenance of power lines, transformers, and substations, as well as manage the connection and disconnection of service for customers.

In this context, it is essential to focus on the activities associated with operating the distribution system, which include ensuring the quality of power supply, addressing outages, and providing customer service related to electric supply. This role is crucial because it directly impacts the reliability of service delivered to end users.

Other options do not align with the core responsibilities of a Distribution Utility. Generating high-voltage power primarily falls under the role of generation companies, while regulatory bodies typically handle energy pricing. Selling power internationally pertains more to export strategies of national utilities or generation companies rather than the operational scope of distribution utilities.