Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU) is one of the oldest publicly owned utility systems in the Pacific Northwest, serving Tacoma and surrounding communities since 1893. As a customer-owned utility, TPU provides essential services that support the quality of life and economic vitality of the South Sound region.
TPU operates three divisions:
Tacoma Power – Provides reliable electric service to nearly 187,000 customers throughout Tacoma, University Place, Fircrest, Fife, portions of Lakewood, Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and surrounding Pierce County communities. The utility generates much of its electricity from renewable hydroelectric resources and is known for its commitment to reliability, conservation, and affordable rates.
Tacoma Water – Supplies clean, high-quality drinking water to more than 300,000 people in Pierce and King counties. Tacoma Water’s primary source is the protected Green River Watershed, helping ensure a dependable water supply for generations to come.
Tacoma Rail – A municipally owned freight railroad that provides critical rail connections between regional industries, the Port of Tacoma, and national transportation networks, supporting economic growth throughout the region.
Unlike investor-owned utilities, TPU operates entirely from revenues generated through utility services rather than tax dollars. As a publicly owned utility, its focus is on delivering safe, reliable, and affordable services while investing in infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and customer programs.
In addition to utility services, TPU offers energy-efficiency rebates, conservation programs, payment assistance options, and resources to help customers reduce energy and water consumption.
Headquartered in Tacoma, TPU remains committed to providing dependable power, water, and rail services that are essential to the communities it serves.
For more information, visit Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU)