Book excerpt: It is no longer acceptable for utility engineers to make spending decisions solely because they make good engineering sense. In today’s environment, they must also demonstrate solid business acumen and show that recommendations make good business sense. With this goal in mind, Business Essentials for Utility Engineers systematically presents each business topic to arm engineers with the tools and vocabulary necessary to be more effective when interacting with senior management, and for promotion to senior management. This book covers all business concepts important to utility engineers, including regulation, ratemaking, accounting, finance, risk management, economics, budgeting, and asset management. The author applies his vast corporate experience to give readers a solid foundation for business theory, discussing the idiosyncrasies of utilities and using advanced mathematics to demonstrate business concepts. He also explains how to properly apply this theory to utilities, expounding on specific business skills that will greatly benefit utility engineers in their daily jobs. Chapters are organized to build sequentially upon each other, and take advantage of the mathematical sophistication and deductive nature of engineers when presenting material. After reading this book, utility engineers will view their industry from a new perspective, and will have a greatly expanded business vocabulary. Suitable for self-study, undergraduate study, graduate study, or as a desk reference, this book provides a robust framework for correct business thinking and a solid foundation for further learning. WAtch Richard E. Brown talk about his book at: http://youtu.be/gdyjq77nQFI