Price Shock: Duke Projects Over $1 Billion for City Utility Takeover

Clearwater officials have taken a bold step by investing $500,000 to explore the possibility of establishing a municipal utility. This daring move has sparked curiosity and controversy among city residents and officials alike. But why stop there? St. Pete officials have also joined the conversation, showing a willingness to challenge the norm and explore new possibilities.

With Clearwater's contract with Duke set to end on December 31st, city leaders are faced with a pivotal decision. They are eager to see the results of the nine-month study to determine if there are potential benefits to breaking away from Duke and taking control of their own utility services. This is not just a financial decision, but a strategic move towards independence and self-reliance.

Duke, on the other hand, has conducted its own third-party study which raises concerns about the challenges of starting up a municipal utility and breaking away from Duke's grid. While they may not provide clear rate projections, they emphasize the complexities and obstacles involved in such a transition. But challenges are meant to be overcome, not avoided.

Pursuing a city-owned utility is a complex undertaking that involves significant planning, resources, and long-term commitment. It requires a clear understanding of the financial, operational, and legal challenges involved. While the path forward includes uncertainty, it also presents opportunities to gain local control over energy infrastructure and prioritize public interests.

Communities exploring this option must weigh the risks and benefits carefully. Transitioning from a private utility model to public ownership isn’t easy—but for cities seeking greater transparency, accountability, and alignment with local values, it may be a step worth considering.