From 2012 to 2019, PoweringFlorida - FPL’s Office of Economic Development - has helped bring nearly $97 billion in capital investments and more than 296,000 jobs to Florida.
Last year, Site Selection magazine again named Florida Power & Light Company, under NextEra Energy, Inc., to its list of the top U.S. utilities in economic development. The magazine, which focuses on corporate real estate strategy and economic development, announced the prestigious honor in September 2020.
“Site Selection’s recognition of FPL’s economic development efforts is the direct result of the tireless work our team does each and every day to move Florida forward by working hand-in-hand with businesses, community leaders, state and local officials and site sectors to help companies find their new home base in the Sunshine State,” said FPL President and CEO Eric Silagy.
FPL decided to further its investment in economic development in 2011 as a way to create jobs and help strengthen Florida’s economy, and make it more sustainable after the Great Recession. FPL offers two rates, the Economic Development Rider and the Commercial Industrial Service Rider, to companies that start-up, locate or expand in the 35 counties it serves, which provide additional savings that can be reinvested in the business.
Through its PoweringFlorida® website and team, FPL works throughout the state to leverage its global relationships and its reach to attract new businesses and help existing businesses grow. It leads the way in promoting Florida as a great place to do business with a website tool that serves as a one-stop-shop for businesses looking to expand or move to the state. This Explore Florida tool provides prospective partners with a convenient and complementary way to learn all about growth and investment in Florida’s communities. The tool showcases seven years of foreign direct investment data to support international corporate decision-making and is accessible to the public.
Another tool FPL offers is for small businesses. The Small Business Tool helps owners identify new customers, find local suppliers and benchmark wages and other costs.
About the Author - Crystal Stiles
Crystal Stiles is the senior director of economic development at Florida Power & Light Company.