FPL and Firefighters Prepare for the Future of Energy
More than 200 firefighters and emergency personnel across Florida have received specialized training to respond to incidents involving battery energy storage systems.
As new technologies transform how electricity is generated and delivered, preparing emergency responders for emerging challenges has become increasingly important. Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) and the Florida Fire Marshals and Inspectors Association (FFMIA) have joined forces to strengthen community safety through specialized firefighter training.
The initiative takes on particular significance during National Fire Prevention Week, observed October 4–10, 2026, highlighting the importance of preparing first responders for potential emergencies involving modern energy storage facilities.
Training for Emerging Challenges
Launched earlier this year, the program provides practical instruction on battery energy storage technology, safety protocols, incident management and real-world emergency response scenarios.
More than 200 firefighters and emergency professionals have completed training sessions held in Destin, Bay County, Putnam County, Baker County, Greenacres and Manatee County. Participants also receive continuing education credits.
“Safety is our number one priority, and partnerships like this help make our communities stronger and better prepared,” said Brandon Stankiewicz, vice president of FPL Universal Solar Development.
The training is led by Oscar Rodriguez, battalion chief of training for the Margate Fire Department, who brings 25 years of experience as a first responder.
Rodriguez emphasized that understanding these technologies allows firefighters to anticipate potential risks and respond more confidently when emergencies occur at energy storage facilities.
Building a More Reliable Energy Grid
Battery energy storage systems help utilities store electricity during periods of lower demand and deliver it when customers need it most, particularly during early morning hours and as the sun sets.
FPL currently operates nearly 1,600 megawatts of utility-scale battery storage capacity, enough to power more than one million homes for four hours. The company plans to add approximately 900 megawatts of additional capacity by the end of 2026.
Among its facilities is the Manatee Energy Storage Center, recognized as the world’s largest solar-powered battery when it began operations. Jon Pasqualone, executive director of FFMIA, emphasized that education and training remain essential tools for protecting firefighters and the communities they serve.
The partnership reflects an increasingly important reality: modernizing electrical infrastructure also requires preparing those responsible for responding when emergencies arise.
As Florida continues expanding its energy capabilities, initiatives like this help ensure that public safety advances alongside technological innovation, giving emergency responders the knowledge needed to protect communities in an evolving energy landscape.
