News Summary
City leaders in St. Petersburg are initiating a feasibility study to evaluate the establishment of a municipal electric utility to potentially replace Duke Energy. This decision follows rising frustration over increasing energy costs among residents. The study aims to assess the viability of creating a city-controlled utility as a cheaper and more sustainable option. With the current contract with Duke Energy set to expire in 2026, the feasibility study represents a crucial step in determining the city’s energy future.
St. Petersburg city leaders have taken a significant step toward evaluating the possibility of establishing a municipal electric utility to replace the current provider, Duke Energy. This decision comes in response to growing concerns among residents regarding escalating energy bills. The proposal to conduct a feasibility study was discussed and approved during a recent city council meeting, passing with a 5-3 vote. Mayor Ken Welch has been directed to seek proposals for the study, which aims to assess the viability of a city-controlled utility as a potentially more cost-effective and sustainable alternative to extending the existing contract with Duke Energy.
The council members’ approval of the feasibility study reflects mounting frustration over high utility costs faced by the community. In a personal account shared during the meeting, Council member Corey Givens Jr. highlighted a $450 electric bill, illustrating the struggle many constituents are experiencing. Additionally, Council member Richie Floyd, who spearheaded the proposal, stressed the importance of evaluating whether Duke Energy is effectively meeting the city’s energy objectives.
St. Petersburg’s current contract with Duke Energy is set to expire in the summer of 2026. This offers the city a critical window to explore alternatives before deciding whether to enter into a new agreement with the energy provider. Data from similar municipalities indicates that those operating their own electric grids typically charge rates about 20% lower than those levied by Duke Energy. Rising costs attributed to the recent hurricane seasons have led to increased rates from Duke, further intensifying the debate over the city’s energy future.
Concerns over financial stability and local control have prompted many residents to advocate for a transition to a municipal utility. As the costs of living continue to rise, the desire for a utility that prioritizes community needs and value has gained traction among the electorate. Clearwater, a neighboring city, is already in the process of conducting its own feasibility study regarding the establishment of a public utility, and St. Petersburg council members are cautious to avoid redundant efforts in this arena.
Council member Brandi Gabbard noted the high volume of resident interest in exploring all potential avenues related to electric service. However, some officials, including Council member Mike Harting, have raised important questions about the complexities and costs associated with creating a new utility from the ground up.
Duke Energy maintains that its primary focus remains on storm preparedness, reliable electricity delivery, and meaningful investment in the local community. Yet public sentiments toward the utility have been mixed, with numerous comments reflecting apprehension about Duke’s performance. Residents express concerns over the company’s response times, service reliability, and overall transparency, leading many to demand accountability.
The upcoming feasibility study is designed to comprehensively evaluate the financial, legal, and operational aspects of creating a municipal utility. However, the city council has clarified that supporting this study does not imply an immediate decision to sever ties with Duke Energy. Any further actions will be contingent on the findings of the study and careful deliberation of proposals that will be drafted in due course.
As the July 2026 deadline for making decisions approaches, the council understands the urgency of these evaluations to ensure that residents have reliable, affordable, and community-focused electric services in the future. The feasibility study is a crucial first step in determining the best path forward for St. Petersburg’s energy landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Brookfield Acquires Stake in Duke Energy Florida
St. Petersburg Evaluates Electric Power Provider Amid Rising Costs
Clearwater Considers $1 Billion Municipal Utility
Additional Resources
- Fox 13 News: St. Pete Considers Creating City-Owned Electric Utility
- Florida Politics: St. Pete Takes Step to Study Municipal Electric Feasibility
- St. Pete Catalyst: Has Duke Sold a Lie to St. Petersburg?
- Wikipedia: Electricity in the United States
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Electricity
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
