MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, Fla. — Florida Power & Light customers are preparing for higher electricity bills after state regulators approved a $7 billion rate increase that will roll out over the next several years.

The first hike — about $2.50 a month — takes effect in January. By 2029, customers are expected to pay roughly $8 more per month.

“I have seen my FPL bill skyrocket and I’m concerned,” one South Florida resident said. Another added, “I have a sick daughter at home, so I’m washing a lot. So I’m seeing the increase.”

Some longtime customers say the rising costs are becoming unmanageable.

“Right now it’s averaging $285 a month. Ten years ago it was like $200,” said Gwen Williams.

FPL says the higher rates will fund upgrades to strengthen the electric grid. But advocates argue the increases come amid what they call an affordability crisis.

“Floridians are struggling from the Panhandle to Miami-Dade County,” said Maria Claudia Schubert-Fontes of Catalyst Miami, noting that three million customers were disconnected for nonpayment during the rate case review.

Community groups are hosting a listening session Saturday to help residents understand the changes and share concerns. Many, like Krystal Rodriguez, worry about how their families will cope.

“My mother is an assistant teacher — she’s barely breaking even,” she said.

Organizers say the goal of the upcoming listening session is to give residents a chance to voice their concerns directly to elected officials as the Public Service Commission — whose members approved the hikes — faces renewed political scrutiny.

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