This book investigates whether privately owned electric utilities demonstrate superior productive efficiency compared to their public sector counterparts. Michael G. Pollitt, an expert in energy economics, utilizes rigorous empirical data and advanced measurement techniques to evaluate the performance of power plants and transmission systems across multiple international markets. The work provides a systematic framework for understanding the economic implications of restructuring state-owned electricity industries in a global context.

Experts recognize this work as a foundational text for understanding the economic performance of privatized utilities. Readers frequently note the technical density of the prose and the precision of the empirical methodology employed throughout the study.