Florida Power & Light (FPL), the largest electric utility in Florida, is currently facing a class-action lawsuit filed in 2017. The lawsuit alleges that FPL failed to meet its obligations to prevent power outages during Hurricane Irma in 2017.
The lawsuit claims that FPL did not adequately harden its power system, replace aging poles, or clear vegetation near power lines. As a result, millions of FPL customers lost power for days or even weeks after Hurricane Irma.
The plaintiffs in the lawsuit are seeking damages for lost profits, lost perishable goods, and other expenses incurred as a result of the power outages. They are also seeking injunctive relief to require FPL to take steps to improve its storm preparedness.
FPL has denied the allegations in the lawsuit and has argued that it did everything it could to prepare for and respond to Hurricane Irma. The company has also pointed to the fact that it has invested billions of dollars in storm hardening measures since Hurricane Irma.
The FPL lawsuit is still ongoing, and it is unclear when it will be resolved. However, the outcome of the case could have a significant impact on FPL customers and other utilities across the country.
FAQs:
Q: Who is suing FPL?
A: The lawsuit is being brought by a class of FPL customers who lost power during Hurricane Irma in 2017.
Q: What is the FPL lawsuit alleging?
A: The lawsuit alleges that FPL failed to meet its obligations to prevent power outages during Hurricane Irma. The plaintiffs claim that FPL did not adequately harden its power system, replace aging poles, or clear vegetation near power lines.
Q: What are the plaintiffs seeking?
A: The plaintiffs are seeking damages for lost profits, lost perishable goods, and other expenses incurred as a result of the power outages. They are also seeking injunctive relief to require FPL to take steps to improve its storm preparedness.
Q: What has FPL said in response to the lawsuit?
A: FPL has denied the allegations in the lawsuit and has argued that it did everything it could to prepare for and respond to Hurricane Irma. The company has also pointed to the fact that it has invested billions of dollars in storm hardening measures since Hurricane Irma.
Q: What is the status of the lawsuit?
A: The lawsuit is still ongoing, and it is unclear when it will be resolved.
Q: What could the outcome of the lawsuit mean for FPL customers?
A: If the plaintiffs are successful, FPL customers could receive compensation for the losses they incurred as a result of the power outages. The lawsuit could also lead to changes in the way that FPL operates and maintains its power system.
Conclusion
The FPL lawsuit is an important case to watch, as it could have a significant impact on FPL customers and other utilities across the country. The outcome of the case could provide guidance on the obligations of utilities to prevent power outages during natural disasters.
References:
- FPL asks judge to toss class-action suit over Irma power outages, citing new Florida law: https://www.miamiherald.com/news/business/article277061978.html
- FPL, Irma plaintiffs battle over new law: https://www.cbsnews.com/miami/news/fpl-irma-plaintiffs-battle-over-new-law/
- Class Action Lawsuit Against FLP Florida Power & Light Company: https://www.hsptrial.com/florida-personal-injury-attorney/power-light-lawsuit/
