Duke Energy Florida has announced a tree giveaway program, offering 1,000 free trees to its customers in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation. The initiative aims to encourage residents to plant appropriate tree species in suitable locations to help maintain power reliability.
Customers can request a free 1-gallon tree on January 16, which coincides with Florida Arbor Day, by visiting https://get.arborday.org/dukeenergy. Trees will be shipped directly to recipients’ homes along with instructions for planting and care, with delivery expected before National Arbor Day in April. Species available include sweetbay magnolia, crape myrtle, live oak, ‘Shoal Creek’ vitex, and Flordaking Peach.
The company emphasizes that choosing the right type of tree and location is important for reducing risks near power lines. Melissa Seixas, president of Duke Energy Florida, stated: “When the right tree is planted in the right place, it can help provide shade and cleaner air, while reducing vulnerabilities to the power lines nearby. This year’s giveaway of 1,000 trees is another way we’re working with the communities and customers we serve to grow healthier tree canopies and support long-term power reliability.”
Throughout the year, Duke Energy Florida employs certified arborists and environmental specialists who work alongside contractors to identify hazards posed by trees near power infrastructure. Their responsibilities include trimming branches, applying herbicides where necessary, and removing trees that could threaten electrical service.
Since 2017, Duke Energy Florida has distributed more than 15,000 free trees through similar efforts. The company has also been recognized by the Arbor Day Foundation for nearly two decades for its practices in managing vegetation around utility lines.
The program advises property owners to consider factors such as a tree’s mature size and shape when planting near electrical facilities. Customers are reminded not to attempt trimming around power lines themselves due to safety risks. Additional guidance includes maintaining clearances around ground transformers and contacting utilities before digging by calling 811 or submitting requests at www.Sunshine811.com.
Duke Energy Florida serves approximately two million customers across a service area spanning 13,000 square miles in Florida. Its parent company operates electric utilities serving over eight million customers across several states and continues investing in grid modernization and cleaner energy sources.
More information about safe planting practices around electrical infrastructure can be found on Duke Energy’s Right Tree Right Place website.
