Cracking the Code
Meeting Changing Customer Demands & Expectations
Celebrating 35 years, the FRI Symposium has become an anticipated staple in the regulatory industry. Marking this milestone, we channel The Imitation Game—the high-stakes race to break the Enigma code. Join us as we tackle the industry's ultimate puzzle. The signals are clear; the panels are set. Are you ready to deliver a breakthrough?
Endorsed by NARUC and Recommended by AGA, EEI, and NASUCA.
About the Symposium
The 2026 FRI Symposium prepares to examine how the industry can 'crack the code' on changing customer demands—specifically balancing affordability, infrastructure needs, reliability, and utility financial health. Gain diverse perspectives on synchronizing these core pillars of utility management in an evolving economy. As we gather for this 35th milestone year, the 2026 Symposium has become a ‘must attend’ event for those interested in public utility regulation.
Who Should Attend
This symposium is essential for:
- State Utility Regulators and staff
- Elected Officials
- Consumer Advocates
- Industry Professionals (Electricity, Natural Gas, Water sectors)
- Academics & Researchers focused on economics, public policy, and energy
Why Leaders Are Excited for This Year's Symposium
For 35 years, FRI has brought together the brightest minds in utility regulation, making its Annual Symposium an essential stop for anyone working in today’s complex policy environment. If you want practical takeaways for addressing the challenges impacting utilities today, this is the room to be in.
— Commissioner Ann McCabe, Illinois Commerce Commission & FRI Advisory Chair
With modern system demands changing rapidly, the exploration of alternative regulatory structures at this year’s Symposium is incredibly timely. Finding ways to balance rapid market speed with grid reliability and financial health is a conversation no stakeholder should miss.
— Kristine Telford, Vice President, State Engagement, Edison Electric Institute
The C-suite panel is the highlight for me, as it always delivers new insights into how the industry tackles its regulatory challenges. This year promises to be no different. I look forward to hearing how the industry is meeting the rising demand and shifting expectations of customers.
— Commissioner Erik Helland, Iowa Utilities Commission & Master of Ceremonies
Key Benefits & Takeaways
- Gain Insights: Discuss the latest trends in intercepting massive AI load requests, managing the water-energy nexus, and evaluating supply chain bottlenecks.
- Leader’s Network: Connect with state utility commissioners, consumer advocates, financial analysts, and utility executives from across the nation to discuss the modern regulatory compact.
- Explore Innovation: Discover alternative regulatory models, from structural ring-fencing to consumer-initiated resource frameworks that balance market speed with reliability.
- Influence the Future: Contribute to vital conversations on alternative cost allocation models that protect customers and utility health while fueling regional development.