The backbone of any successful power generation facility lies not only in its initial design and construction, but also in the ongoing excellence of its operations and maintenance (O&M) programs. As the energy sector faces mounting pressure to maximize efficiency, minimize downtime, and extend asset lifecycles, today’s power plant operators are turning to cutting-edge technologies and proven methodologies to improve competitiveness.

The articles in this edition of Critical Insights showcase the strategic approaches that forward-thinking plant managers are using to achieve operational excellence while controlling costs and ensuring long-term plant success. Whether it’s optimizing pump performance; implementing best-in-class turbine maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) practices; leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to fine-tune heat rate and enhance predictive maintenance; or using advanced measurement tools that streamline critical generator maintenance, the convergence of innovation and expertise is transforming how power companies approach plant reliability.

The energy industry is at a turning point—load growth and rising demand are creating unprecedented opportunities. Experience POWER (October 29–31 in Denver, CO) is the only event that unites stakeholders across the entire energy value chain—generation, transmission, distribution, supply—and the digital innovations driving them forward. Don’t wait—be first to seize the opportunities shaping the future of power.