OUC’s Long-Term Energy Plan Ensures Affordable and Sustainable Electricity

6 Things to Know About OUC’s Recommended Electric Integrated Resource Plan

On November 11, the Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC – The Reliable One) released management’s recommendations for the utility’s Electric Integrated Resource Plan (EIRP), a long-term roadmap for meeting Central Florida’s future energy needs. The workshop presentation is posted on OUCFuturePlanning.com.

Below are six key takeaways:

1. The Recommended Plan Balances Today’s Needs with Tomorrow’s Challenges
   The EIRP reflects changing fuel markets, technology, customer demand, and generation resources. The recommended portfolio supports OUC’s priorities by improving reliability, maintaining affordability, advancing clean energy goals, and strengthening resiliency through a more diverse energy mix.
2. OUC Remains Committed to a Lower CO2 Future
   The recommended portfolio supports OUC’s long-term CO2 reduction goals through investments in solar energy, battery storage, energy efficiency, conservation programs, demand-side management, and emerging technologies. It also preserves flexibility to adopt future carbon-free technologies as they become available.
3. Flexibility Is Critical in a Changing Energy Landscape
   As fuel markets, technology, customer demand, and economic conditions continue to evolve, the recommended portfolio provides the flexibility needed to adapt while maintaining reliable, affordable, and sustainable service.
4. Expanded Fuel Flexibility Supports Affordability
   Analysis showed that upgrading Stanton Units 1 and 2 to operate fully on either coal or natural gas is more cost-effective than building new power plants or converting the units entirely to natural gas. This flexibility helps manage fuel price fluctuations and supply disruptions, supporting long-term affordability for customers.
5. More Extreme Weather Is Increasing the Focus on Resiliency
   Recent winter and summer weather events have increased peak energy demand and challenged utilities across Florida. Combined with expected growth in large electrical loads, these trends highlight the need for greater resiliency. As a result, OUC is increasing its reserve margin from 15% to 20% to help ensure reliable service during periods of high demand.
6. Stakeholder and Community Input Helped Shape the Recommended Plan
   Stakeholder engagement was a key part of the EIRP process. Feedback from the 2025 and 2026 OUC Voice of the Customer surveys, ongoing Community Working Group discussions, and a public workshop informed the recommended portfolio and reinforced OUC’s commitment to transparency and meaningful community involvement. The final portfolio will be presented to the OUC Board for consideration on December 15, 2026.

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About OUC—The Reliable One
For more than 100 years, OUC—The Reliable One has provided exceptional value to its customers and community through the delivery of affordable, reliable and sustainable services and solutions. The utility provides electric, water, chilled water, lighting and solar services to nearly 300,000 customers in Orlando, St. Cloud and parts of unincorporated Orange and Osceola counties. As OUC prepares for the next century, it remains committed to advancing a cleaner, more resilient energy future while supporting the Central Florida community with conservation, sustainability and energy efficiency resources. Visit www.ouc.com to learn more.