It’s a conversation that’s been brewing for years — but now, St. Petersburg could be inching closer to a major shakeup in who powers the city. At the heart of the debate: skyrocketing electric bills and growing frustration from residents. “We know the cost continues to go up every year, and there are a number of people who struggle to pay their power bills,” St. Pete City Council Member Corey Givens Jr. said. “That’s why we want to explore a public utility option.” Currently, the city is under contract with Duke Energy, but with that agreement set to expire in 2026, city leaders are weighing whether to renew it or walk away. During a recent meeting, council members questioned Duke directly. “Has Duke gone on record to say they’re willing to lower rates if that means renegotiating a new agreement?” one asked. MORE: https://www.wtsp.com/article/news/local/pinellascounty/st-petersburg-getting-rid-of-duke-energy/67-a3445547-6f05-4d55-9201-401231abd748