Regulation, Monitoring, and Ownership Influence the Quality of Service of Latin American Electric Distribution Utilities: A Doctoral Research Proposal

Abstract

The decline in the quality of service of electric distribution utilities in Latin America is a topic requiring investigation because of its effect on the sustainability of privatization. The quality of service could be a hidden cost of privatization because the policies of regulation have neglected the quality-of-service issue. The aim of this study will be to determine the influence of regulation, monitoring, and ownership on the quality of service of Latin American electric distribution utilities. A panel data technique will be appropriate for the analysis because of the need to incorporate cross-sectional and time-series data. The outcomes of this research may help regulators and decision makers to implement policies to improve the quality of service.