Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the opening of the Florida Retail Fuel Transfer Switch Modernization Grant Program, a $10 million initiative funded by the Florida Legislature to help retail fuel facilities remain operational during power outages. Administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the program provides financial assistance to eligible fuel retailers for the installation or modernization of transfer switch infrastructure, allowing stations to connect to backup power sources during emergencies.

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Today, Florida Commissioner of Agriculture Wilton Simpson announced the opening of the Florida Retail Fuel Transfer Switch Modernization Grant Program, a $10 million initiative funded by the Florida Legislature to help retail fuel facilities remain operational during power outages. Administered by the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS), the program provides financial assistance to eligible fuel retailers for the installation or modernization of transfer switch infrastructure, allowing stations to connect to backup power sources during emergencies.

“Every hurricane season reminds us that access to fuel in an emergency is a lifeline,” said Commissioner Wilton Simpson. “This program helps ensure that fuel stations can stay online when the power goes out, so communities and first responders aren’t stranded when they need fuel the most. I’m grateful to the Florida Legislature for investing in real, practical solutions that strengthen our emergency preparedness.”

The Florida Retail Fuel Transfer Switch Modernization Grant Program aims to ensure fuel pumps, dispensing equipment, life safety systems, and payment systems can continue operating even when the electrical grid is down. The program offers the following maximum grant awards:

• Up to $10,000 for retail fuel facilities located in fiscally constrained counties.
• Up to $5,000 for retail fuel facilities located in all other counties.

To qualify, retail fuel facilities must:

• Be a registered retail fuel facility in compliance with s. 525.19, Florida Statutes. Register here.
• Have a minimum of four fueling positions
• Be compliant with s. 526.143, Florida Statutes
• Meet the definition of a “retail outlet” under s. 526.303, Florida Statutes (does not include marinas)
• Not be a newly constructed or substantially renovated facility subject to s. 526.143(2), Florida Statutes, as these facilities already employ these technologies. 
• Agree to participate in emergency response coordination as required by local or state emergency management authorities
• Submit a complete application with all required documentation verifying compliance with grant criteria

Applications will be evaluated based on:

1. Facility location on a designated evacuation route
2. Number of fueling positions available
3. Presence of an on-site generator or a contract for generator delivery within 24 hours
4. Availability of nearby retail fuel facilities already equipped with a transfer switch

To learn more about the Florida Retail Fuel Transfer Switch Modernization Grant Program, click here. Completed applications should be emailed to CSPetroGrants@FDACS.gov.

For more information about Commissioner Simpson and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, visit FDACS.gov.

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