FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 30, 2003
CONTACT: Linda Long, (850) 245-2112
Ann Rowe, (850) 922-1600
Towson
Fraser, (850) 921-5266
Hybrid Car Rally Highlights Energy
Awareness
--Agency Heads test their driving skills,
promote fuel-efficient vehicles--
TALLAHASSEE – Florida is tackling obstacles to
promote fuel-efficient vehicles and reduce energy consumption.
Department of Environmental Protection Secretary David B. Struhs
today challenged Department of Community Affairs Secretary
Colleen Castille and Department of Management Services Secretary
Bill Simon to a hybrid car race, highlighting the State’s
commitment to energy-efficiency. Florida’s agency heads
navigated an obstacle course in eco-friendly hybrid vehicles
bringing Energy Awareness Month to a close.
“Florida’s economy and quality of life depend on a clean
and healthy environment,” said Department of Environmental
Protection Secretary Struhs. “Using hybrid vehicles, with near
zero emissions, protects Florida’s air, reduces reliance on
gasoline and saves taxpayer dollars.”
Florida currently owns more than 900 alternative fuel
vehicles, shaping the market for this and other clean air
technologies. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection
now owns 37 fuel-efficient hybrid vehicles, totaling 13 percent
of its car fleet. Selecting hybrid vehicles for the state
vehicle fleet reinforces Florida's commitment to clean air and
environmental protection.
“Conserving resources through innovative ideas is a primary
DMS mission,” said Department of Management Services Secretary
Simon. “In addition to environmental benefits, fuel efficient
vehicles cut government costs, so more taxpayer dollars can be
focused where they are needed most – helping Florida’s
citizens.”
The State recently announced a new round of initiatives to
improve energy efficiencies and reduce the State’s energy
consumption, following Governor Jeb Bush’s direction that “state
government lead by example.” In addition, Florida is helping
underserved communities throughout the state to conserve energy
and lower utility costs. Named Front Porch Sunshine, the
partnership program is installing energy-saving solar technology
in weatherized low-income homes.
“Florida is truly a front-runner in adopting clean energy
technologies,” said Department of Community Affairs Secretary
Castille. “Expanding energy savings for Florida’s government
and communities through solar and weatherization efforts
continues to improve the quality of life for our residents.”
View pictures from the event.
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Press Office
