Ocala Electric Utility celebrates its 125th anniversary
In the early days of the Ocala Electric Utility company, the provider served only about 600 customers. Now, as it celebrates its 125th anniversary, OEU serves more than 50,000 homes and businesses across Marion County and beyond.
In 1898, the city of Ocala purchased the Ocala Light & Power company for less than $15,000 and formed OEU, which would go on to provide electric service to residents for the next century and a quarter.
“Citizens and leaders of Ocala recognized the need for infrastructure to drive growth and development in the community,” according to OEU.
Since 2016, OEU has been a Reliable Public Power Provider, a distinction given to companies that excel in reliability, safety, workforce development and system improvement, according to the American Public Power Association.
OEU provides solar power in collaboration with 15 other public power companies in Florida in an effort to provide clean, emission-free energy, according to the Florida Municipal Solar Project.
OEU kicked off its 125th anniversary with a celebration on July 14, which included a ribbon cutting, live music, games and an appearance from its mascot, Theodore the Electric Bear, at the downtown square.
To learn more, go to ocalafl.gov/government/electric-utility
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