R.I. Gen. Laws § 24-8.1-3

For the purposes of this chapter, the term “utility facilities” includes the systems owned by private corporations, private companies, municipalities, political subdivisions, authorities or agencies of the state furnishing water, sewage disposal, telephone, telegraph, or other communication, electric, or gas services within this state and all plant and equipment comprised therein without regard to whether or not the furnishing of such services is subject to regulation under the provisions of title 39, provided further that all private corporations and private companies coming within the scope of this chapter shall be regulated by title 39.