Intended for both lay & technical readers, this report serves as a basic reference tool that provides a comprehensive delineation of the electric power industry & its traditional structure, which has been based on its monopoly status. In addition, it describes the industry's transition to a competitive environment by providing a descriptive analysis of the factors that have contributed to the interest in a competitive market, proposed legislative & regulatory actions, & the steps being taken by the various components of the industry to meet the challenges of adapting to & prevailing in a competitive environment. Figures, tables, historical information.