With the Florida Public Service Commission poised to hear arguments next month about a proposal that would increase Florida Power & Light 's base electric rates, attorneys squared off Monday about whether the commission also should consider an alternative proposal filed by the state Office of Public Counsel and some consumer groups.

Commission Chairman Mike La Rosa took up the issue and a series of other matters Monday in advance of the October hearing.

FPL and numerous businesses and groups filed a proposed settlement Aug. 20 that would lead to base-rate increases of $945 million in 2026 and $766 million in 2027, according to the utility.

FPL also would collect additional amounts in 2028 and 2029 for solar-energy and battery-storage projects. But the Office of Public Counsel — whic

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