Energy affordability takes center stage at Florida GOP annual meeting

Energy affordability and rising electricity costs dominated discussions this week as Republican leaders, consultants and policy advocates gathered in Orlando for the Republican Party of Florida’s Annual Meeting, with participants signaling the issue will be a defining theme of the 2026 Legislative Session.

Speakers at a panel hosted by Conservatives for Clean Energy Florida argued that high power bills are increasingly a kitchen-table concern for voters and warned lawmakers that affordability, reliability and grid security are converging into a single political test. The discussion came as lawmakers returned to Tallahassee and utilities continue to face scrutiny over fuel costs and long-term infrastructure planning.

“Floridians recognize that a multitude of energy generation resources will allow Florida to continue to lead the United States in economic development, innovation, and financial growth,” said Rep. Toby Overdorf, who emceed the panel. He said voters want practical solutions that keep electricity affordable without sacrificing reliability.

Polling data presented during the discussion underscored that message. According to Cygnal Polling, 63% of Republican voters surveyed support alternative energy sources, while 77% link energy independence directly to national security. Panelists said those numbers challenge the notion that clean or alternative energy is a partisan liability within GOP Primaries.

“Voters want an all-of-the-above approach to energy as a solution to rising costs and as a way for Florida to secure grid security and independence,” said Cygnal pollster John Rogers. “Republican voters will reward campaigns that lay out a clear vision for unleashing all of Florida’s incredible energy potential to spur job growth and make energy more affordable.”

The panel featured Conservatives for Clean Energy Florida Executive Director Zach Colletti, Rogers, R Street Institute energy analyst Josiah Neeley and ace political consultant Chris Hudson. Speakers repeatedly returned to the idea that diversification — including solar, nuclear and traditional generation — is the best hedge against fuel price spikes that ultimately hit consumers.

Neeley said regulatory delays and uncertainty can add unnecessary costs that are passed on to ratepayers, while Hudson emphasized that energy messaging is evolving as affordability overtakes ideology as the dominant concern among voters.

Polling also showed strong support for strengthening energy infrastructure and reducing regulatory burdens, which are viewed as driving up costs. Panelists framed those priorities as consistent with conservative principles, arguing that predictability and competition help protect families from sudden rate increases.

Energy policy debates are expected to intensify as the Session unfolds, with lawmakers weighing grid hardening, generation expansion and long-term planning against pressure to keep rates in check. Speakers said the political takeaway from the Orlando meeting was clear: Republican voters are focused less on labels and more on whether policies deliver reliable, affordable power.

As Overdorf put it, “Affordability matters. Reliability matters. And voters expect us to get both right.”