ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (WFLA) — St. Petersburg leaders are moving forward with plans to take a closer look at whether the city should one day provide its own electric service.

After hours of public comment Thursday, the City Council voted 4-3 to approve nearly $600,000 for a feasibility study examining what it would take for the city to create its own electric utility and potentially replace Duke Energy.

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Supporters of the study said it could identify ways to lower electric bills, increase local control and improve storm resilience.

“We’re looking at you all to make the right decision,” one resident told council members. “This feasibility study to me is like a layup.”

Others opposed the move, arguing the money and staff resources should be directed toward other city priorities.

Council members emphasized the study is intended to gather information, not make a final decision on whether the city should operate its own utility.

Results of the study are expected in eight to nine months.

Opponents have also raised concerns about the potential cost of transitioning away from Duke Energy. The vote comes as the city continues negotiations with Duke ahead of the expiration of their 30-year lease agreement in August.

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