Tampa Electric will lower rates this summer – a month ahead of schedule – as it removes the storm surcharge from bills earlier than originally planned.
In August, residential and small business customers can expect to see a reduction of about $20 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours of use, which is an 11% to 12% drop.
"This relief reflects Tampa Electric's ongoing commitment to help our customers on their payments whenever we can," said Archie Collins, president and chief executive officer of Tampa Electric. “We understand everyone is feeling the pressure of higher prices, from the grocery store to the gas pump, and we heard you. It’s important to us that you receive this benefit as soon as possible.”
The Florida Public Service Commission approved a storm surcharge in March 2025 to recover more than $400 million in costs to restore power after the record-breaking 2024 hurricane season. The fee was spread over 18 months to reduce the impact on customers. The surcharge was originally expected to drop off bills in September.
The costs will be fully covered sooner than expected, so the fee will end a month early, dropping off bills Aug. 1. Because the Budget Billing program is designed to keep bills stable and predictable, customers who participate in that program will see a more gradual change.
The 2024 hurricane season was one of the most destructive in more than a century. Hurricane Helene brought unprecedented flooding to West Central Florida, and several days later, Hurricane Milton caused significant devastation from downed trees. Over the course of the two hurricanes, the company brought in 9,500 workers from out-of-state utilities, which allowed speedy restoration.
For customers having difficulty paying their bills, please contact Tampa Electric. The company can help with flexible payment arrangements and can connect qualifying customers with financial support. Learn more about the support options available by visiting TampaElectric.com/PayAssist.
Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 870,000 customers in West Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc. (NYSE: EMA)
