Proposed FPL Rate Hike Triggers Mixed Emotions

BROWARD COUNTY (CBSMiami) — Nearly 80 people attended two public hearings Wednesday, with nearly half condemning a proposed $690 million rate increase by Florida Power & Light.

According to FPL Spokesperson Alys Daly, more than half the comments were positive.

The quality of service hearings, mandated by the Florida public service commission, were an opportunity for the public to share their thoughts on the proposed rate increase.

The South Florida Sun-Sentinel reports FPL's rate increase would raise monthly basic rates on 1,000 kilowatts from $43.26 to an estimated $48.49 in January and then up to about $50.35 in June 2013. Consumers, though, would not see as much of an increase because fuel costs are expected to go down next year.

However, according to a U.S. Department of Energy study, natural gas prices could rise if exports continue to increase, meaning the FPL rate hike would impact South Floridians' wallets.

Even if such an increase occurred, points out Daly, FPL averages the lowest utility bills of Florida's 55 utility companies.

See how the rate increase would affect your bill with FPL's rate calculator.