A group of participants in a conference auditorium, with one man speaking into a microphone, engaging in discussion during a PURC training session.

About PURC

Internationally recognized utility leader since 1972

The Public Utility Research Center at the Warrington College of Business is an international academic center dedicated to research and training in utility regulation and strategy, as well as the development of leadership in infrastructure policy.

Founded in 1972, the center enhances the understanding of issues confronting public utilities and regulatory agencies through conferences, seminars and training programs; through research covering the energy, telecommunications, and water sectors, and by preparing students for careers in infrastructure industries.

Our extensive network of utility and regulatory experts around the world works with us to connect theory and practice in ways that extend our understanding of these sectors; we deliver training programs in Florida, the nation, and around the world.

PURC’s impact

PURC programs teach the principles and practices that support the utility industry. The center helps government and industry officials develop efficient utility infrastructure to better meet the needs of their customers.

Araceli Castaneda, Director of Leadership Studies, speaks with a seated conference attendee at a PURC event, with other participants visible in the background.

Policy

PURC informs utility policy through research, training, and global engagement. It helps regulators and industry leaders improve energy, water, and telecom services by promoting effective, evidence-based regulation and infrastructure planning.

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Regulation

PURC supports utility regulation through research, training, and guidance that promote effective, evidence-based policies. It helps regulators improve efficiency, competition, and service quality in energy, water, and telecom sectors worldwide.

A speaker delivers a presentation on utility performance management to a group of professionals in the Scarola Family Auditorium, with attendees seated in rows and following along on laptops.

Management

PURC assists utility management by providing training and research that improve strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance. Its programs help utility leaders navigate market changes, adopt best practices, and deliver reliable, cost-effective services.

A professional stands and speaks with a microphone during a PURC training session, while another facilitator looks on and participants listen in a conference room setting.

Leadership

PURC strengthens utility leadership through executive training and research that build skills in regulation, innovation, and change management. Its programs prepare leaders to navigate complex utility challenges and drive sustainable performance.

PURC governance

Funding from public and private organizations ensures PURC’s independence. The executive committee sets policy guidelines and research priorities, gathers data, and approves budgets. These sponsors have seats on the executive committee:

Four women, members of a professional panel, sit at a conference table with microphones and documents, focused on a discussion during a PURC executive committee meeting.

This group of regulatory professionals provides insight and understanding about important issues facing leadership and offers strategic advice and feedback on direction and activities.

A group of professionals sit around a conference table, listening and sharing insights during a leadership advisory meeting at PURC.

Members of the International Advisory Council help PURC improve the quality of instructional programs and services by identifying research topics, helping develop training programs abroad, and offering feedback about the PURC/World Bank international Program on Utility Policy and Strategy.

A woman speaks into a microphone while seated at a panel, with two colleagues listening attentively during a PURC International Advisory Council meeting.
A PURC team member engages in a one-on-one conversation with a participant during a training session, offering guidance and support in a classroom setting.

How can PURC help?

PURC’s team supports utilities through research, training and other resources. Reach out to learn how we can support your organization.

General inquiries
PURC business development
Contact the PURC team