Since converting its Bayside Power Station from coal-burning to an efficient natural gas plant in 2003, and as operational efficiencies continue, Tampa Electric does not need the parcel to support electric generation. The transaction supports Tampa Electric’s ongoing work to benefit customers, while allowing Port Tampa Bay to identify the best business partners for the marine terminal and to build the port’s diverse lines of business.
"We are thrilled to expand our partnership with Port Tampa Bay with this mutually beneficial agreement,” said Carlos Aldazabal, vice president of Energy Supply at Tampa Electric. "This land sale aligns with our commitment to operational efficiency while supporting our region’s economic growth opportunities.”
“Port Tampa Bay has long considered TECO to be one of our most strategic partners, and we continue to work together to enhance our working waterfront,” said Paul Anderson, Port Tampa Bay president and chief executive officer. “This is a win for both organizations and will bring additional economic opportunities and jobs to the region we serve."
Port Tampa Bay plans to leverage the newly acquired property to build and develop new maritime, manufacturing and/or logistics business.
“The port is pleased for the ability to add a marine terminal to our current portfolio of land,” said Raul Alfonso, executive vice president and chief commercial officer. “The addition of 22 acres of land with deep-water access will allow us to grow our diverse lines of business, while supporting TECO's efficiency, growth and long-term plans.”
About Port Tampa Bay
Port Tampa Bay is Florida’s largest port, supporting 192,201 jobs and generating over $34 billion in total annual economic impact. In addition to being a top 10 U.S. cruise port, the port handles a wide array of bulk, break bulk, containers, and roll-on/roll-off cargoes, and is a major shipbuilding and repair center. For more information, visit www.portTB.com.
About Tampa Electric
Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest investor-owned electric utilities, serves about 860,000 customers in West Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.