DEP Hosts Energy Day at State Capitol 

According to a 2001 study by the United States Energy Information Administration, as the fourth most populous state, Florida ranks third nationally in total energy consumption. Florida uses 8.6 billion gallons of gasoline per year, with consumption growing by 300 million gallons per year, and less than one-tenth of one percent of Floridians own automobiles that use alternative fuels. In addition, the State’s need for electrical generation is expected to grow by approximately 58 percent between 2002 and 2020.

“To protect our quality of life and growing economy, we must continue exploring alternative ways to provide power and fuel,” said Lt. Governor Jennings. “Diversifying our energy portfolio, reducing our reliance on foreign oil and promoting new technologies will ensure a reliable supply of power for the long-term.”

At today’s event, exhibits were displayed by the Florida Energy Office, the Florida Department of Agriculture, University of Florida Institute of Food and Agriculture Science, the UF Program for Resource Efficient Communities, the Jacksonville Electric Authority, the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, the Florida Solar Energy Industry Association, Progress Energy, Plug Power, Air Products, Chevron Hydrogen, BP and the Florida Solar Energy Center. Displays provided information on topics including the ENERGY STAR™ program and the Farm-to-Fuels program.

“We are committed to finding innovative solutions to address the state’s growing energy needs,” said DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “An adequate, reliable, diverse, efficient and affordable energy supply, coupled with a long-term commitment to energy conservation, is vital for maintaining Florida’s growing economy.”

In February, Governor Jeb Bush introduced the 2006 Florida Energy Act. The comprehensive strategy is the first step toward establishing a diverse, secure and reliable energy future. The four-year, $75 million plan removes unnecessary regulatory barriers and provides rebates, grants and tax incentives to create a more balanced energy portfolio by increasing Florida’s investment in the development of alternative fuel technologies.

The initiatives outlined within the legislation represent a sound investment in the state’s future. Grant programs and targeted investments for emerging technologies will speed up the development of viable alternative energies such as solar, hydrogen and biofuels and stimulate opportunities for new industrial activities and services, providing high paying jobs for more Floridians.

The Florida Energy Office is the state’s primary center for energy policy under Governor Bush. In addition to developing and implementing Florida’s energy policy, the Energy Office coordinates all federal energy programs delegated to the state, including energy supply, demand, conservation and allocation.

For more information about the Florida Energy Office or the Florida Energy Act, visit www.FloridaEnergy.org.