Florida’s solar capacity is growing rapidly. In 2022, Florida added over 1,000 megawatts of new solar capacity, bringing the state’s total to over 3,000 megawatts. That’s enough to power over 600,000 homes. Solar energy is becoming more affordable. The cost of solar panels has fallen by more than 80% in the past decade. And thanks to state and federal incentives, solar energy is now more affordable than ever for Florida homeowners and businesses. Solar energy is creating jobs in Florida. The solar industry employs over 9,000 people in Florida. And that number is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. In addition to these positive news stories, there are a number of other reasons to be excited about solar energy in Florida:
Florida has abundant sunshine. Florida receives an average of 244 sunny days per year. That’s more than any other state in the Southeast.
“I’d put my money on the sun and solar energy. What a source of power! I hope we don’t have to wait until oil and coal run out before we tackle that.”
Thomas Edison
Solar energy is clean and renewable. Solar energy doesn’t produce any greenhouse gases or other pollutants. That makes it a good choice for the environment. Solar energy can help Florida reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. Florida currently imports over 90% of its fossil fuels. Solar energy can help the state reduce its reliance on imported energy and become more energy independent.
Resources
Solar energy is a bright future for Florida. The state has abundant sunshine, and the cost of solar energy is falling. Solar energy is also creating jobs and helping Florida reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. If you’re interested in learning more about solar energy in Florida, I encourage you to visit the resources listed below.
- Florida Solar Energy Industries Association (FlaSEIA): https://www.flaseia.org/
- Florida Solar Energy Center (FSEC): https://www.fsec.ucf.edu/
- Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA): https://www.seia.org/
- U.S. Department of Energy Solar Energy Technologies Office (SETO): https://www.energy.gov/eere/solar/
