Kissimmee Utility Authority

Kissimmee Utility Authority (KUA) is a municipally-owned electric utility founded in 1901 and serving Osceola County, Florida. It is Florida's sixth-largest municipally-owned utility, providing electric services to approximately 80,000 customers.[1]

Overview

KUA owns, operates, and manages the municipal electric system established by the City of Kissimmee. The utility is known for its commitment to reliable service and community engagement.[1] KUA operates and jointly owns the Cane Island Power Park and has ownership interests in other generating stations, including coal, natural gas, and nuclear sources.

In addition to electric services, KUA provides billing for refuse and stormwater services for the City of Kissimmee, Florida.[1]

Governance and management

Board of directors

KUA is governed by a five-member board of directors appointed by the Kissimmee City Commission for staggered five-year terms. The mayor of Kissimmee serves as an ex officio member.[1] As of January 2024, the board members include:

  • Kathleen Thacker, chairman
  • Jeanne Van Meter, vice chairman
  • Olga Gonzalez, secretary
  • Larry Walter, assistant secretary
  • Rae Hemphill, director
  • Olga Castano, Mayor of Kissimmee (ex officio member)[2]

Executive management

The board selects a president and general manager who is responsible for day-to-day operations of the utility.[1] Key executive positions include:

  • Brian Horton, president and general manager[3]

Operations

Power generation

KUA operates and jointly owns the Cane Island Power Park, which consists of four generating units with a combined capacity of 740 megawatts.[1] The utility also has ownership interests in other generating stations, including coal, natural gas, and nuclear sources, to ensure a diverse and reliable power supply.

Service area

KUA serves approximately 80,000 customers in Osceola County, Florida, including the cities of Kissimmee and St. Cloud, as well as parts of unincorporated Osceola County.[1]

Budget

In July 2024, the KUA board of directors approved a $293 million operating and capital budget for the 2025 fiscal year.[4]

Community engagement

KUA is actively involved in the community it serves. The utility offers various programs and initiatives, including:

  • Energy conservation programs
  • Educational outreach
  • Community sponsorships and events
  • Customer assistance programs[1]

Historical events

2004 hurricane season

In 2004, KUA faced significant challenges when three major hurricanes struck its service area:

KUA workers worked extensively to restore power, logging 16-hour days to repair damage and restore electricity.[1]

Post-hurricane evaluation

Following the 2004 hurricane season, KUA implemented several measures to improve its storm preparedness and response capabilities. These included:

  • Strengthening infrastructure
  • Enhancing emergency response plans
  • Improving communication systems
  • Increasing coordination with local and state agencies[1]

Awards and recognition

KUA has received numerous awards for its service, reliability, and community engagement. Some notable recognitions include:

  • American Public Power Association's Reliable Public Power Provider (RP3) designation
  • Florida Municipal Electric Association's Safety Award
  • Various environmental stewardship awards[1]

See also

References

  1. ^ a b c d e f g h i j k "Corporate Information". Kissimmee Utility Authority. Retrieved 2024-08-30.
  2. ^ "Regular Meeting of Kissimmee Utility Authority". Kissimmee Utility Authority. 2024-01-10. Retrieved 2024-08-30.
  3. ^ "OUC General Manager & CEO Elected Vice President of Florida Municipal Electric Association Board of Directors". Orlando Utilities Commission. 2022-07-13. Retrieved 2024-08-30.
  4. ^ "Kissimmee Utility Authority Board Adopts $293 Million Budget". American Public Power Association. 2024-07-09. Retrieved 2024-08-30.