CRESTVIEW — Citing the need to continue to invest in the long-term reliability of Northwest Florida’s energy infrastructure, Gulf Power has notified the Florida Public Service Commission that it may seek approval later this year for a price increase that would begin summer 2017.
“Securing our customers’ energy future requires a balanced energy mix that includes renewables and 24-7 energy sources like natural gas and low-cost coal that’s cleaner than ever,” said Stan Connally, Gulf Power chairman, president and CEO. “Energy security also includes reliability — since 2010, Gulf Power has improved its reliability by 40 percent and we must continue that trend of improvement.”
Gulf Power last requested an increase in 2013. In 2012, Gulf Power customers saw the largest price decrease in Gulf Power’s history, a decrease of nearly $10 per month for the typical customer. In January 2016, customers received a decrease that lowered the bill $3.71 per month.
“As we continue to secure future energy needs for our customers, we have to make sure our systems are resilient so that we can continue to deliver safe, clean and reliable energy and continue to meet the energy needs of our customers today, tomorrow and into the future,” Connally said.
This article originally appeared on Crestview News Bulletin: Gulf Power rate increases possible