Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Florida Attempting to Save Solar Rebate Program

Florida Attempting to Save Solar Rebate Program

The recent oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico has awakened America to re-examine renewable energy. One state, Florida, has a solar rebate program in trouble. 

The Florida solar rebate program was established in 2007. It provides homeowners $10,000 for photovoltaic solar installations and $500 for solar hot-water systems. Unfortunately, Florida state Legislature did not fund the program. Florida received $14.4 million in federal stimulus, but most of the funds went directly to solar rebates. This money was quickly used by applicants from the previous year.

Governor Charlie Crist requested $10 million for the program in 2010-2011. So far, Florida has provided no funds.

Currently, there are nearly 10,000 applicants waiting for $25 million in rebates. The program is set to expire at the end of June unless the Legislature reauthorizes its continuation.

Governor Crist said a special session is needed to consider banning oil drilling and investing money in renewable energy. 

http://wdbo.com/blogging/mt-tb.cgi/72984

Posted via email from richhesslersolar's posterous