NextEra to buy Gulf Power, gas assets from Southern for $6.5 billion

Atlanta-based Southern Company announced Monday that it plans to sell Gulf Power, the electric utility that serves the Pensacola area, for an estimated $6.4 billion to Juno Beach-based NextEra, which owns Florida Power & Light. FPL is already the largest electric utility in Florida, providing power to nearly half of residents and businesses. The acquisition expands its reach to northwest Florida, as well as adding natural gas assets. See the announcement from NextEra Energy and the news release from Southern Company is here. Also read more at the Pensacola News-Journal, the South Florida Sun-Sentinel, and Utility Dive.

Florida scientist stands strong in support of citrus nurseries

Florida citrus nurseries face unique challenges in the production of citrus nursery stock and the propagation of commercial citrus trees. Production of nursery trees under screen is far afield from the bare-root days of old. Dr. Richard Beeson, Associate Professor at the UF/IFAS Mid-Florida Research and Education Center in Apopka, appreciates the need for more applied studies for the state’s citrus nurseries. Full profile from Growing Produce, here.

Gas prices could be high enough to derail summer travel plans

With gas prices moving closer to the dreaded $3-a-gallon mark, a new Gas Buddy survey suggests drivers might curtail summer driving because of higher fuel costs. That could have a big impact in Central Florida, the nation’s top tourist destination in 2017, according to Visit Orlando. See a summary of the survey from GasBuddy here. Also read more at the Orlando Sentinel.

Navy ships sent elsewhere for repairs leads to salvo from Florida politicians

From routine maintenance to engine overhauls, plenty of companies in Northeast Florida are ready to offer the necessary services when the military needs work done. So when that work goes elsewhere, it’s no surprise politicians get involved. More from the Florida Times-Union.

System in Gulf of Mexico expected to bring more rain to Florida this week

A system in the Gulf of Mexico has a 20 percent chance for development over the next five days, bringing even more rain to Florida. Locally heavy rain is the main threat across western Cuba and Florida over the next several days and could affect the Memorial Day weekend. More from TCPalm.