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TALLAHASSEE – The Department of Environmental
Protection (DEP) is now accepting grant proposals for
the Renewable Energy Technologies Grant Program. Part of
the 2006 Florida Energy Act, the grant program is
designed to stimulate capital investment in the state
and promote and enhance the statewide utilization of
renewable energy technologies.
The targeted grants program is designed to advance
the already growing establishment of renewable energy
technologies in the state, such as hydrogen, biomass,
solar energy, geothermal energy, wind energy, ocean
energy, waste heat and hydroelectric power. Through the
2006 Florida Energy Act, the Florida Legislature
appropriated $15 million for the grant program, with at
least $5 million to support bioenergy projects and $10
million for projects that generate or utilize other
renewable energy resources.
“Through the Renewable Energy Technologies Grant
Program, Florida is encouraging investment in
alternative energy technologies, which will build a
diverse, reliable supply of energy for Florida,” said
DEP Secretary Colleen M. Castille. “The development of
renewable energy technologies will help reduce demand
for foreign fuels, promote energy diversity, reduce
pollution and promote economic growth.”
Grant proposals will be evaluated by the state based
on a number of different criterion, including cost share
percentage, economic development potential, energy
efficiency and how the project fosters public awareness
of renewable energy technologies. Grants will be awarded
at a maximum of $2.5 million per project. Eligible
applicants include Florida municipalities and county
governments, established for-profit companies licensed
to do business in Florida, universities and colleges in
the state, utilities located and operating within
Florida, not-for-profit organizations as well as state
agencies.
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.
For more information about the 2006 Florida Energy
Act or information on the grant program, visit
www.floridaenergy.org. | 
