The increasingly competitive environment of the electricity sector has significant implications for nuclear power plant (NPP) operations. Management objectives must be focused on efficient operation as the key to profitability. The business and financial success of operating NPPs must be given greater consideration through an integrated approach which also ensures the successful achievement of safety and reliability objectives. In developing strategic and operational goals, nuclear plant managers will be required to embrace and articulate clear and measurable business objectives and goals which not only ensure safety and reliability, but also eliminate unnecessary costs and identify investment opportunities. This publication looks at the optimization of costs as an integrated part of the management process with a focus on planning (strategic and tactical) and on controlling (control system, corrective actions and pay reward) functions.