Duke Energy’s deal with St. Petersburg set to expire

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. – The city of St. Peterburg’s deal with electrical utility company Duke Energy expires at midnight Friday evening.

No power is expected to be shut off.

Still, Duke officials said no negotiations to renew their 30-year agreement are scheduled and no talks appear imminent.

In fact, St. Pete leaders have floated the idea of dropping Duke as its power carrier. Clearwater had similar talks but ultimately dropped the idea and signed a new agreement with the utility company.

“Duke Energy is exploring the implications the franchise agreement expiration will have on the city and our company,” Duke said in a released statement. “While continuing our commitment to provide reliable service to our customers.”