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March 7, 2022 |
TOP NEWS
Energy Prices Rising Due to Russia-Ukraine Conflict
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine is driving up energy costs and forcing European countries to consider alternate fuel sources versus purchasing energy from Russia. The abrupt switch in fuel sources has caused an increased reliance on coal, with global prices quadrupling to $16 per mmbtu. U.S. natural gas has become the most affordable fuel option, with prices on the rise due to limits on new wells and pipelines. Customers could see higher bills in the coming months as utilities pay more for natural gas. FMPA continues to work on behalf of its members to provide affordable power. FMPA’s team is available to help communicate about these higher energy prices and potential impacts to customers, elected officials and other stakeholders.
FMSP Phase III
FMPA received seven responses to a request for proposals (RFP) for a solar power purchase agreement for Phase III of the Florida Municipal Solar Project (FMSP). The RFP sought bids for up to 375 MW of solar power and options for energy storage. The FMSP solar team will review and shortlist the proposals with plans to select final bids by the end of June. The recommended proposals will be presented to the Board of Directors for discussion and participation throughout the year and for final approval in November. Contact: Susan Schumann
Human Resources Roundtable
FMPA hosts a Human Resources Roundtable on Wednesday at 10 a.m. at FMPA’s Orlando office. The roundtable provides a forum for participants to discuss HR topics, including benefits, recruiting, employee retention, training, policies and more. Participation via teleconference will be available for those unable to attend in person. Contact: Sharon Samuels
Behind the Switch Social Media Campaign
FMPA will launch a social media campaign called “Behind the Switch” on March 14 to give a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to provide affordable and reliable power. This year’s campaign explores a series of short topics including generating and maintaining affordable power and cybersecurity awareness. The videos will be posted on FMPA’s Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter pages. Contact: Rachel Ilardi
T&D Construction Maintenance Services
FMPA’s Member Services Department is preparing a supplemental request for proposals for transmission and distribution construction and maintenance services to acquire additional firms ahead of hurricane season. The services rendered would be for storm-related work and meet FEMA reimbursement requirements. Interested members should contact Sharon Samuels by March 16.
AMI Roundtable
Registration for FMPA’s Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) Roundtable is now open. The roundtable takes place on April 14 at 10 a.m. at FMPA’s Orlando office. A teleconference option is available for those unable to attend in person. The roundtable provides an opportunity for members to discuss topics such as AMI technology, equipment, training and more. The deadline to register is April 7. Contact: Cairo Venegas
Lineman’s Roundtable
FMPA will host a Lineman’s Roundtable on April 28 in Williston. The roundtable provides a forum for line crews to exchange ideas on operating practices, safety, training, tools, equipment and other common issues. The roundtable is open to all levels of utility line crew personnel, as well as utility staff members interested in transmission and distribution topics. The deadline to register is April 19. Contact: Sharon Samuels
SPECIAL DATES
Anniversaries
Sue Utley | March 8 | 18 Years
Jeff Hanson | March 9 | 2 Years
John Lee | March 9 | 35 Years
COMING UP
FMPA Governing Board Meetings
March 17 | 9 a.m. | FMPA Orlando office
Foreman Academy Certification – Track 1
March 21-24 | FMPA Orlando office
Meter Tech Roundtable
March 31 | 10 a.m. | FMPA Orlando office
TOP INDUSTRY NEWS
Florida House Passes Net Metering Bill
PSC Approves TECO’s $165 Million Request to Recover Rising Fuel Costs
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FMPA Weekly is published by FMPA’s Public Relations Department for staff and members. Questions about this newsletter may be directed to Rachel Ilardi or Anna Castro. Check out FMPA’s Glossary, for frequently mentioned terms.