Jacksonville, Florida, December 18, 2025
Environmental and community advocacy groups protested at JEA headquarters, delivering coal to symbolize opposition to the utility’s reliance on coal-fired energy and increasing electric bills. Organized by a coalition including the Sierra Club and NAACP, the demonstration drew attention to the financial and health impacts of JEA’s practices. The groups argue for a transition to renewable energy to ensure affordable, sustainable power for Jacksonville residents, amidst concerns over rising utility rates and environmental sustainability.
Jacksonville Advocacy Groups Protest JEA’s Coal Use and Rate Hikes
Jacksonville, Florida – On December 17, 2025, local environmental and community advocacy groups delivered bags of coal to the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) headquarters, protesting the utility’s continued operation of the Northside Generating Station coal plant and rising electric bills. The demonstration was organized by a coalition of groups, including the Sierra Club Florida, CLEO Institute, NAACP, and St. John’s Riverkeepers. Participants presented coal, a coalition letter, and holiday cards to JEA officials, symbolizing their opposition to the utility’s reliance on coal-fired power and the impact of increasing utility rates on Jacksonville residents.
Protest Details
The protest marked a significant moment for local advocacy, highlighting the concerns of residents regarding energy costs and environmental sustainability. The coalition emphasized their commitment to addressing what they perceive as harmful practices by JEA. The delivery of coal was a symbolic gesture intended to draw attention to the challenges these practices pose to both the community’s financial well-being and the environment.
Financial and Health Implications
Earlier this year, JEA implemented a 3.7% increase in utility bills, with an additional 5% increase scheduled for 2026. The advocacy groups argue that retiring the coal units at the Northside Generating Station could save JEA customers at least $15 million annually, potentially up to $60 million if fossil fuel prices remain high. Additionally, transitioning away from coal is expected to improve public health by reducing harmful emissions and preventing 112 asthma attacks each year. These figures highlight the potential economic benefits of shifting toward more sustainable energy sources.
Call for Renewable Energy Transition
The coalition emphasized the need for JEA to prioritize renewable energy sources in its upcoming Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), scheduled for release in 2026. They advocate for a shift towards cleaner energy options to ensure affordable and sustainable power for Jacksonville residents. Community members are increasingly aware of how renewable energy can not only alleviate financial burdens but also contribute positively to public health and environmental preservation.
Background on JEA’s Energy Practices
JEA has been operating the Northside Generating Station coal plant for decades. Environmental groups have previously criticized the utility for its reliance on fossil fuels, fostering a conversation about the need for a transition to cleaner energy sources to address pressing environmental and health concerns. Such discussions are vital for Jacksonville’s future and align with broader trends aiming for responsible energy practices that benefit both locals and the environment.
Community Response
The protest reflects growing community concern over JEA’s energy practices and their impact on both the environment and residents’ financial well-being. Advocacy groups continue to push for policy changes that support renewable energy adoption and address the challenges posed by rising utility costs. Community engagement in these issues is crucial, as residents seek a balanced approach that encourages economic growth while promoting environmental responsibility.
Related News
- JEA ‘overwhelmingly’ failing on clean energy transition, new report from environmental group says
- Jacksonville advocacy groups deliver ‘coal for Christmas’ to JEA in rally against coal, rate hikes
Video Coverage
For more details on the protest, you can watch the video below:
FAQs
- Why did advocacy groups deliver coal to JEA?
- The delivery was a protest against JEA’s continued operation of the Northside Generating Station coal plant and rising electric bills.
- What rate increases has JEA implemented?
- JEA implemented a 3.7% increase in utility bills earlier this year, with an additional 5% increase scheduled for 2026.
- How could retiring the coal units at JEA benefit customers?
- Retiring the coal units could save JEA customers at least $15 million annually, potentially up to $60 million if fossil fuel prices remain high.
- What health benefits are associated with transitioning away from coal?
- Transitioning away from coal is expected to reduce harmful emissions and prevent 112 asthma attacks each year.
- What is JEA’s Integrated Resource Plan?
- The Integrated Resource Plan (IRP) outlines how JEA will meet the energy needs of Jacksonville and is scheduled for release in 2026.
Key Features of the Post
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Protest Details | Advocacy groups delivered coal to symbolize opposition to JEA’s practices. |
| Financial Implications | Potential savings of $15 million annually for JEA customers if coal is retired. |
| Health Benefits | Transitioning from coal could prevent 112 asthma attacks annually. |
| Renewable Energy Call | Advocacy for prioritizing clean energy in JEA’s upcoming IRP. |
| Community Response | Growing concern regarding energy practices and financial impacts. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
