ratepayer

[ reyt-pey-er ]

noun

1. a person who pays a regular charge for the use of a public utility, as gas or electricity, usually based on the quantity consumed.
2. British. a person who pays rates; rate; a taxpayer of the local government.

ratepayer

/ ˈreɪtˌpeɪə /

noun

1. a person who pays local rates, esp a householder

Other Words From

• ratepaying adjective noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of ratepayer¹

First recorded in 1835–45; rate ¹ + payer

Example Sentences

They’ve called the tunnel a boondoggle that would harm the Delta and its deteriorating ecosystem, and have argued the project would saddle ratepayers with high costs.

From Los Angeles Times

Currently, building infrastructure is a key way for utilities to boost their profits because they bill the cost back to ratepayers over many years, tacking on annual interest that is typically 10.5%.

From Los Angeles Times

Other measures to assist ratepayers on low incomes would also remain in place.

From BBC

It comes despite warnings that it would lead to greater cuts to council services and a higher council tax rise for ratepayers in the county.

From BBC

Another bill, which ratepayer advocates supported, would have required the Public Utilities Commission to develop a framework for analyzing total annual energy costs for residential households.

From Los Angeles Times