Tampa Electric customers gathered Tuesday evening for a community forum hosted by the Hillsborough Affordable Energy Coalition, looking for answers and assistance amid a stretch of significant rate increases.

The event gave residents the opportunity to share personal stories, speak with energy experts, and connect with local elected officials about rising electricity bills.

The timing of the forum reflects growing frustration among TECO’s customer base. Tampa Electric customers have seen their rates rise multiple times over the past year, including a base rate increase of $9 to $13 per month in January 2025, a storm recovery surcharge of $20 to $25 per month starting in March 2025, and a 10% increase in fuel charges in June 2025. An additional adjustment took effect January 1, 2026, adding roughly $5.50 per month for customers using 1,000 kilowatt-hours.

According to Food & Water Watch, TECO residential bills are now about 82% higher than they were in December 2020, an increase of roughly $939 per year.

TECO has attributed much of the increase to storm recovery costs. The company says a temporary surcharge tied to damage from the 2024 hurricane season — Hurricanes Helene and Milton — is scheduled to come off bills in September 2026, which would result in a reduction of about $20 per 1,000 kilowatt-hours for most customers.

For customers struggling now, Tampa Electric offers assistance programs including budget billing, flexible due dates for customers on fixed incomes, and connections to financial support through its Share program. Customers can find more information at TampaElectric.com/PayAssist.

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