There is, of course, opposition from the utility monopolies who see any change to the status quo as a threat to their profits. In response to a true citizen-driven ballot initiative to allow solar to grow in the Sunshine State, the utilities and their proxy groups have formed a group called “Consumer for Smart Solar” and introduced a sham amendment to confuse voters. Its amendment, which simply maintains the status quo in Florida, is being bankrolled by Florida power companies and Koch bros-funded front groups. For a detailed chart that helps you ‘follow the money’ click here.
It is encouraging to see that the Florida Supreme Court was not swayed by arguments by the power companies that the petition language was misleading and dealt with more than one subject. In the end, the Court ruled that it in fact met all the requirements and that it can be placed on the ballot. All that’s left is to procure the remaining verified signatures. Floridians are one important step closer to making their voice heard and getting Solar Choice on the ballot next year.
Southern Alliance for Clean Energy supports Floridians for Solar Choice as a founding member of the coalition, and we have faith in Floridians and the clean energy community as a whole to work together and take this important initiative all the way. Florida is Ground Zero when it comes to climate change, and this initiative is an important way for a vulnerable, coastal state to embrace real solutions for clean energy.
You can learn more about the initiative and get involved by visiting www.flsolarchoice.org.
George Cavros
This blog was written by a former staff member of the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy.
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