Pay My Bills
Report a Problem
Start / Stop/ Move Service
Business
Contact Us
Careers
Caring for the Environment
OUC recognizes the critical role we play in preserving our environment and protecting our communities for future generations.
Protecting Wildlife
OUC’s environmental team is committed to protecting wildlife and their habitats around our infrastructure. With more than 66,000 distribution poles in OUC’s service area, ensuring the safety of bird populations that fly around our lines remains a priority. Many build nests on power poles and structures, which increases risks for both the birds and our electric system.
As one of the first utilities in Florida to create an Avian Protection Plan, our environmental, engineering and electric distribution teams use computer modeling to track nesting locations and foraging behaviors of bald eagles. We also install protective coverings on conductors, transformers and poles to help protect these beautiful creatures and improve safety and reliability for our customers.
Protecting & Preserving Habitats
Red-cockaded Woodpeckers
Designed to maintain essential habitat necessary for the survival of the red-cockaded woodpecker, prescribed burns are conducted regularly in the wildlife refuge around Stanton Energy Center.
The burns are required by the United States Department of the Interior Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. In addition, the burns will help reduce the danger of wildfires.
Prescribed Burns
At OUC’s Stanton Energy Center, environmental stewardship extends far beyond power generation. One of the most important tools used to protect the site’s diverse ecosystems is the prescribed burn—a carefully planned, professionally managed fire that helps maintain healthy habitats and reduce the risk of uncontrolled wildfires.
By partnering with trained land-management experts, OUC uses prescribed burns to support native plant growth, improve wildlife conditions, and ensure long-term ecological resilience across the center’s expansive conservation lands.
FAQs about Prescribed Burns
Why does OUC participate in prescribed burns?
We take pride in the preserve that we have established and maintain around our Stanton Energy Center. To ensure the health of the preserve, federal and state regulations require the OUC to manage the land through annual prescribed burns. These burns are highly regulated and follow state and federal burn guidelines.
Which animals live in the preserve?
OUC is proud to maintain habitat for red-cockaded woodpeckers, designated as a federally threatened species by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. The preserve is also home to more than 40 other species, including deer, eagles, red foxes and the gopher tortoise, a threatened species in Florida.
How do you decide where to burn?
Before each prescribed burn season, OUC works with biologists to survey the preserve, documenting tree types and the plant and animal species that live there. Using these assessments, and with the required federal and state approvals, OUC determines where and when burns should occur. The surveys identify bird colony locations, longleaf pine measurements, saw palmetto density, and any exotic species. Prescribed burns are then conducted in a way that protects and accommodates all species within the preserve.
Below are where prescribed burns take place on a zone-by-zone basis:
Who conducts the burns?
OUC uses certified prescribed burn managers and follows all federal and state regulations, including providing public notices. Nearby communities are informed when burns are planned during Florida’s dry season, and burns are conducted only under suitable weather conditions. All relevant fire safety officials are notified and support these efforts.
How big are the flames?
OUC’s goal is to keep flames as low as possible to protect the natural ecosystem, typically no more than 2-3 feet high. Certified burn experts carefully plan each burn, including how much area will be treated and the direction the fire will move. Firebreaks are also used to keep burns contained. During active burns, you may see smoke in the area.
What is a firebreak?
A firebreak is a gap in vegetation or other combustible material that acts as a barrier to slow or stop the progress of a prescribed fire.
What happens to animals during a burn?
Because only small areas are burned at a time, wildlife instinctively knows to move away from the affected zone. Every step of the process is planned with the safety and well-being of all animals in mind.
When will the burns take place?
Burns take place during daylight hours, typically between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Why are you doing this now?
As we enter Florida’s dry season, we have a limited window to conduct prescribed burns under the right weather conditions.
Which regulatory agencies regulate this process?
The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, an agency within the U.S. Department of the Interior, the Florida Division of Forestry and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
If I have a question, who can I contact?
You may leave a voicemail at (407) 434-2944 and a representative will respond to you shortly.
Tree Line USA©
OUC has earned the Arbor Day Foundation Tree Line USA© designation for its ongoing commitment to effective vegetation management. It is the longest-running recipient of the award in Florida.
Tree Line USA© is a national program that encourages utilities to adopt practices that protect and enhance urban forests. It promotes the dual goals of delivering reliable electricity while preserving community trees.
To achieve this recognition, OUC meets five rigorous standards for urban forest management, including quality tree care, employee training, tree planting sponsorships, public education, and participation in Arbor Day events.
Promoting Water Conservation
OUC is committed to ensuring a reliable water supply for Central Florida while promoting water conservation. As the community grows, OUC focuses on efficient water use through advanced technologies and conservation efforts.
OUC’s conservation team conducts water audits to identify potential water loss and offer recommendations for improving efficiency. Eligible upgrades, such as EPA WaterSense smart irrigation controllers, high-efficiency toilets and water cisterns, may qualify for OUC rebates, helping customers conserve water and save on utility costs.
Related Content
OUC CCR Rule Compliance
Handling and storage of coal combustion residue at OUC’s Curtis H. Stanton Energy Center.
OUC Newsroom
The latest news releases and media advisories from Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC—The Reliable One).
Community Commitment
OUC invests in community growth through local giving, educational programs and workshops, and sponsorship of community activities.