Duke Energy Florida recognized as a Tree Line USA utility for 10th consecutive year

Share This Story

  • Arbor Day Foundation highlights Duke Energy efforts in quality tree care

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — For the 10th consecutive year, the Arbor Day Foundation is recognizing Duke Energy Florida as a Tree Line USA utility.

Trees and vegetation are an important part of Florida’s natural resources, but they are also one of the leading causes of power outages for utilities. In order to keep electricity reliable, Duke Energy has a responsibility to protect the lines that deliver power to homes and businesses across the region.

The Tree Line USA Program demonstrates how trees and utilities can co-exist for the benefit of communities and citizens by highlighting best management practices in public and private utility arboriculture.

“We are honored to be recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation for our tree care programs for the 10th straight year,” said Alex Glenn, Duke Energy Florida state president. “Trees are an important part of Florida’s beautiful natural environment. We strive to be good stewards of Florida’s trees and work to inform customers about planting the right tree in the right place so we can continue to provide safe and reliable energy.” 

Tree Line USA evaluates applicants based on several criteria including adherence to industry best practices for tree care, training of employees and contractors, implementation of public education and tree planting projects, and participation in annual Arbor Day events. 

It is important to remember that customers, property owners and untrained contractors should not prune or cut trees and plants near power lines.

In addition, when planting trees near power lines, be sure to select a low-growing variety in order to minimize impact to the lines.

Contact Florida 811 prior to digging to locate any underground utilities which are often located in power line easements.

Customers who have questions or concerns about tree trimming or right-of-way maintenance can contact a Duke Energy customer service representative at 800.700.8744. These representatives can provide general information on vegetation and right-of-way questions, or they can connect customers to a vegetation management specialist or right-of-way professional in their area.

Information about trees and powers lines is available at www.duke-energy.com/trees.

About Duke Energy Florida

Duke Energy Florida owns coal-fired and natural gas generation providing about 9,100 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 1.7 million customers in a 13,000-square-mile service area.

With its Florida regional headquarters located in St. Petersburg, Fla., Duke Energy is one of the largest electric power holding companies in the United States. Its regulated utility operations serve approximately 7.4 million electric customers located in six states in the Southeast and Midwest, representing a population of approximately 24 million people. Its Commercial Portfolio and International business segments own and operate diverse power generation assets in North America and Latin America, including a growing portfolio of renewable energy assets in the United States.

Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Duke Energy is an S&P 100 Stock Index company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at duke-energy.com

The Duke Energy News Center serves as a multimedia resource for journalists and features news releases, helpful links, photos and videos. Hosted by Duke Energy, illumination is an online destination for stories about remarkable people, innovations, and community and environmental topics. It also offers glimpses into the past and insights into the future of energy.

Follow Duke Energy on Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.

Media contact: 

Twitter: @DE_SuzanneG