An inside look at the electric power industry

As today's electric power systems grow ever more complex-and the risk of huge blackouts grows with it-it is important that policymakers and professionals in the industry, as well as students, gain a solid understanding of electric power systems and how they work. Written by two veteran power company managers and respected experts, Understanding Electric Power Systems offers a real-world view of these systems, how they operate, how they are structured, and how electricity is regulated and priced.

Understanding Electric Power Systems bridges the gaps between technology, government policy, economics and finance, business arrangements, and the Internet-helping the reader to understand the interrelationship of the many aspects of the provision of electric power supply. This comprehensive resource describes:

• The physical nature of the various networks that make up the power system and how they work
• The fuel and money networks that operate to finance and pay costs
• The business and contracting networks involved in their operation
• The legislative and regulatory networks which provide governmental control
• The IT network involved in their physical and commercial operation
• The various organizations that represent the many industry segments

For engineers, policymakers, and students alike, Understanding Electric Power Systems provides a high-level overview of how electric power is generated, transmitted, and controlled in the United States.

The Enron scandal notwithstanding, it is important for professionals in the electric power industry and related positions gain a solid understanding of electric power systems and how they work. Written by two veteran power company managers and respected experts, this is a real-world view of electric power systems, how they operate, how the organizations are structured, and how electricity is regulated and priced.

A comprehensive overview of the electric power industry from the inside
Covers electric power system components, electricity consumption, generation, transmission, distribution, electric utility operation, electric system control, power system reliability, government regulation, utility rate making, and financial considerations.

Includes an extensive glossary of key terms used in the U.S. and also definitions for terms used worldwide