Florida Rolls Back Renewable Energy Goals

Florida state agencies are beginning to roll back renewable energy goals after a new law signed by Governor Ron DeSantis repeals previously established clean energy targets, reports Jim Saunders for News Service of Florida. “Utilities in recent years have dramatically expanded construction of solar energy facilities as technology has improved and costs have decreased. A House staff analysis of the new law said renewable energy generated about 6% of the electricity used in the state in 2021; that number is expected to reach 28% by 2032.”

“The law (HB 1645) signed last week by DeSantis revamps state energy policies, including deleting part of a law that directed the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services to establish ‘goals and strategies for increasing the use of renewable energy in this state.’” Consequently, the state’s Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services’ Office of Energy issued a proposal repealing the goals.

The law also removes references to greenhouse gas emissions, bans potential offshore wind energy, calls for “encouraging a ‘cost-effective and affordable energy supply,’” eases regulations for building natural gas pipelines, and calls for exploration into nuclear power options.