A central question confronting policymakers in Florida and across the nation is: How do we reach consensus on energy policy in a fluid economic environment where technologies are constantly changing?
Florida has unique challenges but also untapped potential to become a national leader in clean energy policy. A diversified approach to energy policy will allow Florida to nurture emerging technologies in renewable energy while ensuring reliability and affordability remain as core values to our overall energy portfolio.
Citizens for Clean Energy is a growing coalition of businesses, leaders, educators and citizens committed to supporting education and public policy change that advance energy jobs and technologies to improve our environment and develop our economy. The members of our coalition include businesses, public-sector organizations, community and advocacy groups, and individual citizens committed to energy independence and growing clean energy jobs in
Florida and nationally.
Our coalition was launched in 2010 by a group of several Florida-based organizations focused on pursuing a stronger economic and energy future. The organizations are committed to working with state and national leaders in fostering an environment that welcomes and encourages investment, innovation, economic development and growth.
Citizens for Clean Energy seeks to work with other businesses and stakeholders committed to the same priorities in our energy policy, which include:
Growing fuel and supply diversity: As a peninsula, Florida has unique geographic and weather challenges, which necessitate a broad fuel mix and diversity of fuel supply. Natural gas is an essential part of Floridas clean energy future, yet supply is limited to two pipelines entering the state. With our coastlines exposed to hurricanes, greater diversity of natural gas supply is the only way to ensure reliability for Floridians.
Supporting renewable energy: Technologies such as solar energy must be part of Floridas long-term energy policy. While the cost of solar energy generation has plummeted in recent years, the regulatory and legislative policy for renewable energy in Florida lags behind dozens of other states. Florida has an opportunity to create jobs, grow our economy and reduce dependence on foreign oil with renewable energy policies that attract businesses with a minimal impact to ratepayers.
Promoting the deployment of new technologies such as smart grid and electric vehicles: New technologies such as smart grid give consumers the information they need to manage energy costs. Expediting the widespread deployment of smart meters will increase efficiency, improve reliability and empower customers. By investing in new technology like smart grid, consumers will see lower costs through operational efficiencies. Similarly, the deployment of electric vehicles by governments, businesses and individuals should be encouraged. The long-term benefits of electric vehicles, including reduced costs, economic growth and cleaner air, offer a win-win for businesses and Floridas economy.
Emphasizing energy efficiency and conservation: Programs both for businesses and residential customers are a critical component of any comprehensive energy policy. Like renewable energy, energy efficiency and conservation programs should be incentivized to allow customers and businesses to save energy costs and promote innovation.
Clearly, there is no silver bullet solution to Floridas energy challenges. Only a diversified approach can nurture new technologies and, at the same time, provide affordable, reliable energy for Floridians.
Citizens for Clean Energy salutes Commissioner Adam Putnam for taking a leadership role in addressing the challenges we confront on energy policy. The 2012 Energy Summit is a vital part of a continuing dialogue between businesses, consumers and other stakeholders to build a much-needed consensus for energy policy in our state. Our members look forward to working with Commissioner Putnam and Floridas Legislature to create an energy policy that fosters the development of clean energy to diversify Floridas energy supply, grow our economy and meet our long-term energy needs.
Ryder Rudd currently serves as the Executive Director of Citizens for Clean Energy.
