AARP Florida Opposes Proposed Excessive Rate Hike by Florida Power & Light that Would Hurt Older Floridians’ Pocketbooks

More than 12 million Florida residents face the largest electric rate increase in U.S. history, with potentially steep hikes in their utility bills. Florida Power & Light (FPL) is proposing an increase that will impact many Floridians, especially seniors on fixed incomes. This proposal raises the minimum base bill for residential customers from $25 to $30—forcing them to pay more regardless of their actual energy usage.

The most alarming aspect of the proposal is FPL’s request for an 11.9% return on equity, a figure far higher than the national average of 9.5%. This increase would make it even harder for families to afford everyday necessities like electricity, food and medicine.

“This excessive rate hike unfairly burdens households —especially low-income seniors or those on fixed incomes. People will pay higher monthly bills for the same amount of power,” said Jeff Johnson, AARP Florida State Director. “The Public Service Commission (PSC) must carefully scrutinize FPL’s proposal and ensure it is justified.”

“This isn’t about finding a fair balance between the needs of customers and their own operations said Zayne Smith, AARP Florida’s Senior Director of Advocacy. “FPL is demanding billions more from hardworking Floridians while pushing for excessive profits that far exceed national norms. Florida residents are fed up with relentless rate hikes that pad utility company profits while leaving families struggling to make ends meet.”

AARP Florida is fighting against this excessive rate hike and encourages everyone to get involved. You can make your voice heard by signing our online petition and by submitting comments directly to the PSC. Visit https://www.aarp.org/flfpl to learn more and take action today.