Gulf Power customers will bear up to $ 13.2 million in costs related to the utility’s COVID-19 measures under a settlement approved this week by the Florida Public Service Commission.

The settlement includes security-related measures and bad debt expense, as the utility did not disconnect non-paying customers between March and November 2020.

The Office of Public Counsel (OPC) – representing consumers – has entered into separate stipulation and settlement agreements with Gulf Power Company on issues regarding their petitions to bill customers for costs related to COVID-19.

Under the settlement, Gulf Power can only claim expenses related to COVID-19, up to $ 13.2 million, until June 30, 2021. All other costs associated with the pandemic or otherwise incurred after termination of 2021 will be classified as a separate event. .

COVID-19 cost recovery will not appear as a separate line on customer invoices. Instead, the funds will be clawed back over three years under the purchase fuel and power clawback clause.

Gulf Power, now part of Florida Power & Light Company, serves approximately 463,000 customers in Northwest Florida.