Duke Energy has selected six sites in Florida for its 2025 Site Readiness Program, an initiative aimed at preparing business and industrial properties for economic development. The program evaluates high-potential locations and markets them to companies considering expansion or relocation.
Since its launch in 2013, the Site Readiness Program has assessed 60 sites across the state. According to Duke Energy, ten companies have chosen to invest in properties that went through the program, resulting in over $493 million in capital investment and the creation of 1,950 jobs. One recent example is an Amazon facility developed in Highlands County, which brought 60 new jobs and $25 million in investment to the area.
The program involves consultants such as Zev Cohen & Associates, Kolb Design Group, Vision First Advisors, Strategic Development Group, and Site Selection Group. These groups work with state and local organizations to analyze each site’s potential and increase awareness among prospective investors.
Melissa Seixas, president of Duke Energy Florida, said: “The Site Readiness program is one example of the proactive economic development initiatives that Duke Energy pursues to help spark investment in the communities we serve. Through this program, we’re able to connect high-potential sites with companies that infuse capital and jobs into local communities for years to come.”
Destin Wells, senior vice president of economic development at Orlando Economic Partnership (OEP), commented: “Duke Energy’s Site Readiness Program plays a critical role in strengthening the Orlando region’s ability to attract and compete for transformative business investments. By identifying and preparing high-potential sites, the program accelerates development timelines and brings greater visibility to our region’s industrial assets. Through the leadership of our economic development team, led by Senior Director Tracy Garcia, our collaboration with Duke Energy also enhances OEP’s site readiness program, D.I.R.T. (Development Initiative for Regional Transformation), combining local insight with infrastructure expertise to drive quality job creation and sustainable growth across Central Florida.”
The six locations chosen for this year’s program are Winnin LLLP Property (Seminole County), City of Perry Property (Taylor County), Sherrill Property (Levy County), Lake County Industrial Park (Lake County), Bar 7 Ranch (Osceola County), and Fort Meade Industrial Site (Polk County).
Duke Energy Florida provides electricity to two million customers across a service area spanning 13,000 square miles. Its parent company serves electric utility customers in several states including North Carolina, South Carolina, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky. The company is investing heavily in grid upgrades and cleaner energy sources as part of its broader transition strategy.
More information about Duke Energy can be found on their website https://www.duke-energy.com/ or through their news center https://news.duke-energy.com/.
