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TALLAHASSEE – Recognizing of the importance of
conserving energy, Governor Jeb Bush signed a
proclamation recognizing October as Energy Awareness
Month. Florida joins federal and state partners
nationwide to encourage Americans to conserve energy at
home and in the workplace.
“Florida’s growing economy and quality of life depend
on a secure, reliable supply of energy,” said Department
of Environmental Protection (DEP) Secretary Colleen M.
Castille. “The 2006 Florida Energy Act passed just this
year provides incentives for conservation and promotes
the development of alternative energy technologies such
as ethanol, solar and hydrogen through grant programs
and targeted investments.”
During Energy Awareness Month, Florida is celebrating
its first sales tax holiday for energy efficient
products during Energy Efficient Week, October 5 – 11,
2006. Part of the 2006 Florida Energy Act, Energy
Efficient Week encourages Floridians to invest in energy
efficient products by providing relief from sales tax
for approved products and appliances for up to $1,500.
Qualifying energy efficient products include a
dishwasher, clothes washer, air conditioner, ceiling
fan, incandescent or fluorescent light bulb,
dehumidifier, programmable thermostat, or refrigerator
that meets all requirements of the ENERGY STAR program.
Spearheaded by Governor Bush and the Florida
Legislature, the 2006 Florida Energy Act takes the first
comprehensive step toward a diverse, reliable and secure
energy future by reducing regulatory barriers to
expedite electric generation capacity and providing
rebates, grants and tax incentives to drive the
development of alternative fuel technologies. The four
year, $100 million plan will diversify the state’s fuel
supply, reduce Florida’s dependence on imported oil,
spur economic growth and promote energy conservation and
efficiency.
As part of the 2006 Florida Energy Act, the State is
encouraging the use of hybrid and alternative fuel
vehicles, including biodiesel and ethanol, shaping the
market for fuel-efficient travel and clean air
technology. With a growing fleet, more than 25 percent
of DEP’s fleet is comprised of clean energy
transportation, including 125 hybrid vehicles and more
than 290 alternative fuel vehicles.
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 on energy in Florida, visit
www.floridaenergy.org. To view the Governor’s
proclamation, visit
http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2006/proc/energy_month.pdf.
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