This is a practical book, to be sure, but it is also a book about hope and posi-
tive change. I am quite sincere. The delivery of electricity is deeply rooted
in the principle of universal access; when clean, reliable energy is available it
contributes to poverty alleviation, improved social conditions, and enhanced
economic development. In the developed world, we know this to be true. The
digital fabric of our lives is a testimony to the importance of energy security.
Across the globe, we have seen the vital contributions that electrification has
brought to the development of economies and an enhanced quality of life.
Nonetheless, this supreme engineering achievement has languished, and we are
deeply challenged.
