The Financial Research Institute (FRI) delivers unbiased research, education, and guidance that shapes the future of utility economics and regulation. Grounded in a 35-year legacy, FRI empowers policymakers, regulators, and industry professionals with objective analysis, collaborative forums, and impactful education and professional development. Alongside its national academic and organizational partners, FRI serves as a catalyst for regulatory innovation—advancing sound, forward-thinking policy for the water and energy sectors.
FRI Programs
At the intersection of industry and regulation, FRI fosters the collaboration necessary to solve complex utility challenges and drive policy-relevant research. Our programs emphasize discussion-based learning and development focused on the critical issues currently facing the regulated public utility sector.
To ensure the highest quality, the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC) provides content review and promotional support for our programs, including scholarship opportunities. Our curriculum is also recommended by leading industry associations such as the Edison Electric Institute (EEI) and the American Gas Association (AGA), with all content continuously vetted by industry experts, regulators, and practitioners to maintain real-world relevance.
Regulated Utilities Leadership Institute
FRI’s Regulated Utilities Leadership Institute (RULI) equips utility decision-makers and regulators with a nuanced understanding of utility regulation, including its history, rationale, and processes. The program emphasizes the unique managerial challenges facing regulated utilities, which differ significantly from the private business world. Designed for utility decision-makers and state commission staff across disciplines – including those beyond direct pricing and regulatory roles, RULI fosters valuable peer-to-peer learning and networking.
The 2026 RULI program will be held June 1-4 at the University of Missouri. Learn more and register.
Advanced Seminar on Transformational Utility Pricing & Rate Design
The Advanced Seminar on Transformational Utility Pricing & Rate Design explores emerging trends in electric utility pricing. Featuring leading academics, industry experts, and regulators, this intensive seminar facilitates in-depth discussions and peer-to-peer learning. Promoted by the National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NARUC), and recommended by EEI and AGA, the Advanced Seminar is designed as an educational opportunity complementing the NARUC Rate School. Limited enrollment ensures a highly interactive experience. The 2027 Seminar will be held in March at the University of Missouri.
Learn more and sign up for priority registration notification.
Annual Public Utility Symposium
FRI’s signature event, the Annual Public Utility Symposium, has convened each autumn for 35 years. Guided by FRI’s Advisory Board of public and industry leaders, the Symposium explores timely issues affecting the economics, direction, and policy implications for public utilities. The 2026 Symposium will be held on September 23rd at the University of Missouri, with registration opening in June.
Learn more and sign up for priority registration notification.
Utility Policy Fellows
The FRI Utility Policy Fellows program provides a unique opportunity for early-career energy scholars to collaborate with leading industry practitioners to develop impactful research on energy policy. Fellows receive a stipend and will complete a published peer-reviewed research project while participating in FRI’s Regulated Utilities Leadership Institute. This program is supported by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.
2025 Fellows
- Dr. Joseph Duggan, University of Dayton
- Dr. Nyakundi Michieka, California State University – Bakersfield
- Kristina Pitman, Colorado School of Mines
Review of applicants begins March 1, 2026. Learn more about our Fellows program and application process.
Hot Topic Hotline Webinars
The Hot Topic Hotline (HTH) features a series of one-hour webinars throughout the year, addressing timely industry and regulatory issues identified by the FRI Advisory Board. The number and timing of HTH webinars vary annually.
Learn about upcoming webinars and access past recordings on the HTH page.
FRI Advisory Board
Our esteemed Advisory Board, comprised of state regulators, industry leaders, and consumer advocates from across the nation, guides strategy and shapes FRI’s direction. Led by Drs. Michael Sykuta and Adrienne Ohler, the Board has positioned FRI as a leader in utility economics and professional development, with recognition from the University of Missouri – CAFNR and a Sloan Foundation-funded program connecting early-career researchers with industry.
Learn more about our board members on FRI’s Advisory Board page.