The Utility Consumer Action Network (UCAN) was formed to serve as a watchdog and advocate for consumer rights regarding utility services. Here are some significant aspects of its formation:

1. Consumer Advocacy: UCAN was established to give consumers a voice in regulatory decisions and to ensure that utility companies are held accountable for fair pricing and services. This is particularly important in sectors like telecommunications, energy, and water where consumers often face large, monopolistic providers.

2. Legal Assistance: One of the founding purposes of UCAN was to offer legal help to individuals who may find it difficult to challenge large utility corporations on their own. This includes issues related to billing, service quality, and terms of service.

3. Public Education: UCAN also focuses on educating the public about their rights and options as utility consumers. This includes providing information about competitive pricing, energy conservation, and other cost-saving measures.

4. Policy Influence: By representing consumers in regulatory hearings and policy discussions, UCAN aims to influence legislation and regulatory frameworks in favor of consumers, ensuring equitable treatment and transparency.

The formation of organizations like UCAN highlights the critical role they play in balancing the scales between million-dollar utility companies and individual consumers who use their services. For more information, you can visit UCAN's official website.