FRI, established in 1988 as an academic institute, is a nationally recognized forum that brings together regulators, industry leaders, consumer advocates, and academics to drive deliberation and discovery on the critical issues shaping the future of management and regulation in today’s utility industry.
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Oct. 15, 2026
(This story appeared in the November 2026 issue of Public Utilities Fortnightly) After years of relatively steady, predictable demand across the electric, water and natural gas sectors, utility leaders across the country are preparing for something entirely different: explosive growth driven by data centers, industrial reshoring, electrification, aging infrastructure, and economic development. These challenges were at the heart of the 35th Annual Public Utility Symposium, hosted on September 23 by the Financial Research Institute (FRI) at the University of Missouri in Columbia, Missouri, where regulators, utility executives, researchers, consumer advocates and technology companies from across the country…
Sep. 23, 2026
COLUMBIA, MO (September 23, 2026) – The Financial Research Institute (FRI) today announced that Greg R. White, a veteran utility regulator and administrator with more than 40 years in energy, utility regulation and public policy, is the 2026 recipient of the policy institute’s Crystal Award, which recognizes individuals for lifetime contributions to public utility regulatory policy. The awarding of the Crystal, established in 2013, was part of FRI’s Annual Public Utility Symposium held each September at the University of Missouri, Columbia. “Greg White contributions to energy policy and public utility regulation over the course of his tremendous career,…
Sep. 21, 2026
COLUMBIA, Mo. (Sept. 22, 2026) – The University of Missouri’s Financial Research Institute (FRI) today announced two new additions to its advisory board. Joining the board are Lorna Eaton, Director of Rates and Regulatory for Kansas Gas Service, a division of ONE Gas, Inc., and Anthony Swinger, Chair of the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. Both appointments are effective immediately. The FRI Advisory Board is an essential component of the Institute, offering strategic counsel, industry perspective, and expert insight to inform program development. Members represent regulatory, industry, and consumer stakeholders across the United States, with operational support…
FRI 2026–2027 Upcoming Programs & Deadlines
Save these dates to join us for expert-led discussions on utility policy, rate design, and regulation. Stay tuned to our communication platforms and social channels for registration launches and event details!
2026
2027