'This Town Should Be Duplicated' – How America's Solar-Powered Hurricane Haven Cuts Power Bills In Half

Babcock Ranch, Florida’s pioneering solar-powered community, proved its resilience during Hurricane Milton last month. Its 880-acre solar field kept lights on while 3.3 million Floridians lost power.

The planned community near Fort Myers may be a model for sustainable, hurricane-resistant development that combines energy efficiency with climate resilience.

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“We are on a mission to build the most innovative, resilient and climate-resilient town in America and in a few short years, we’ve done just that,” Syd Kitson, the former Green Bay Packers player who cofounded Babcock Ranch, said to Realtor.com. The development’s success earned Kitson Time Magazine’s “Dreamer of the Year” recognition in 2023.

Residents there report savings on utility costs despite larger living spaces. “It was half the cost of our old homes, yet we have double the square footage now,” homeowner Janette Dulaney told the Babcock Ranch Telegraph, describing her first electric bill as “mind-blowing.”

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According to the Realtor report, the community’s homes, priced from $300,000 to $4 million, incorporate energy-saving features under Bronze Standard FGBC Certification requirements. High-performance windows, advanced insulation and efficient heating and cooling systems contribute to sustainability and hurricane resistance. All structures can withstand 150 mph winds, while underground power lines prevent storm-related outages.

“This town should be duplicated all over,” says Jason Upperco, a 49-year-old who built a home in the community, pointing to the innovative features.

Environmental protection extends beyond individual homes. About 90% of the community sits on preserved wetlands, naturally mitigating flood risks. Smart Pond systems connected to weather forecasts automatically adjust water levels before storms arrive. The development’s elevation, 30 feet above sea level, further protects against storm surges.

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The 73,000-acre preservation area surrounding the community reflects Kitson’s vision of development working “hand in hand with Mother Nature,” the report said. The approach proved successful during Hurricane Milton when two Babcock Ranch buildings served as emergency shelters for 2,000 people.

“It’s very important to know that you are positively impacting the Earth,” Upperco said. Beyond energy efficiency, the development promotes sustainable living through walkable neighborhoods, outdoor activities and local amenities that reduce car dependency.

Community features include five neighborhood lakes for water sports, two resident lodges with swimming pools and events at Founder’s Square, where solar trees provide device charging stations. Children commonly walk or bike to school, contributing to the community’s reduced carbon footprint.

“To future ‘innovators,’ if you are going to do something unprecedented, be prepared for rejection,” Kitson said, reflecting on the project’s challenges. 

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