Collier County Pushes Back: Urging State to Deny FPL Rate Hikes

Collier County officials have taken a firm stance against proposed rate hikes by Florida Power & Light (FPL), urging state regulators to reject the increases slated for next year. The county commission voted unanimously to pass a resolution expressing opposition to the utility’s plan, which would raise electricity bills for customers across the area.

FPL initially requested nearly $9 billion in increased revenue over four years. After negotiations and public pressure, that number was reduced by roughly 30 percent under a recent settlement. Even so, the proposed rate changes still represent a burden for many residents, especially those living on fixed incomes or already struggling with rising living costs.

Under the proposal now under review, the average residential customer could see monthly bills rise by about $3.79. While FPL frames the planned hikes as necessary to fund solar projects, battery storage, and other infrastructure upgrades, local leaders argue that the cost should not fall on consumers without more accountability and oversight.

The resolution passed by Collier County aims to send a strong message to the Florida Public Service Commission and the governor’s office. Beyond opposing the increases, the county hopes its action will influence the regulatory process and encourage broader opposition among other local governments and residents.

State regulators are set to hold public hearings in October to determine whether FPL’s rate increases will be approved. In the meantime, community advocates and county leaders are mobilizing, stressing that while clean energy investment is important, its financing must be fair and not overly burdensome for households.