Clearwater City Council Approves New 30-Year Contract with Duke Energy
Clearwater's City Council has approved a new 30-year contract with Duke Energy, ending a two-year period of consideration for establishing its own electric utility. The decision came after the council cited potential risks associated with a property tax referendum and…
Tampa St. Petersburg, FL, August 6, 2026 —
Clearwater City Council has officially approved a new 30-year contract with Duke Energy, concluding a two-year period during which the city explored the possibility of creating its own municipal electric utility.
The decision to renew the contract with Duke Energy was reportedly influenced by several key factors, primarily the potential risks linked to a property tax referendum. Additionally, the council cited the intricate and substantial costs involved in the process of acquiring Duke Energy’s existing infrastructure as a significant consideration.
Under the terms of the newly approved agreement, Duke Energy is set to make financial commitments totaling approximately $2 million to the City of Clearwater. These funds are designated for a range of community projects. Planned initiatives include enhancements for storm-proofing infrastructure, beautification efforts throughout the city, and various community development programs.
The council’s deliberation over the past two years involved assessing the feasibility and implications of establishing an independent municipal utility. However, the identified risks and complexities ultimately led to the decision to continue with the established partnership with Duke Energy for the next three decades.
Story summarized from the original created by By Colbi Edmonds, Times staff on www.tampabay.com, see more information here.
