Utilities (water, electricity,oil and gas) are essential services that play a vital role in economic and social development. The provision of quality utilities is an indicator of economic prosperity. Quality utilities are a prerequisite for effective poverty eradication. Governments are ultimately responsible for ensuring reliable universal access of service under accountable regulatory frameworks. Increased competition in the utilities sectors in recent years has entailed changes in regulatory frameworks and ownership structures of enterprises, in addition to business diversification. International Finance Utility Awards aims to recognise and reward path-breaking and cutting edge companies and initiatives.