The Winter Garden City Council unanimously passed Ordinance No. 24-46, better known as the “Energy Choice Ordinance,” ensuring the installation of natural gas infrastructure in future real estate developments.
Specifically, the ordinance establishes a requirement for developers to include natural gas installation in all new subdivision developments of five lots or more.
The decision comes just months after the City of Apopka enacted a similar ordinance, marking another significant step toward expanding energy options and access for Central Florida residents.
“This ordinance is a major victory for Winter Garden residents,” said Brent E. Haywood, general manager and CEO of Lake Apopka Natural Gas District, which provides natural gas service in Winter Garden, Apopka, Clermont and surrounding communities. “By providing access to safe, affordable and reliable natural gas from the start, new homeowners will have the freedom to select an energy option that best fits their needs, without the added expense of retrofitting gas infrastructure after purchase.”
In Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden and surrounding communities combined, families have been losing an average of over $127 million in annual fuel costs due to a previous lack of energy choice.
“We’ve seen firsthand just how vital natural gas can be to Central Florida residents following the impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton this year, and I’m glad our City made the wise choice to embrace energy freedom for our residents. I encourage other communities to do the same,” said Winter Garden Mayor John Rees, who serves on the Lake Apopka Natural Gas District Board of Directors.
Ordinance No. 24-46 addresses this issue by allowing Winter Garden residents to avoid the extra costs of adding gas infrastructure to their homes after the initial construction. Overall, Winter Garden residents and families now stand to save up to $1,100 annually with clean, affordable and reliable natural gas.
Lake Apopka Natural Gas District said it is committed to working with other neighboring municipalities to expand natural gas access and increase energy choice for its customers across the region.
