Florida, the Sunshine State – How many times have you heard that? If you’re in the solar industry, the phrase is probably often followed up with an ironic grin, or maybe even a grimace. It’s no secret that, despite the “sunshine state” slogan, the Florida solar industry faces some significant challenges in the world of politics and policy. US Solar addressed some of these challenges as a sponsor and attendee atRe-Energize Florida, a regional event that took place in Orlando last week. The event was hosted by FARE and FlaSEIA, and, although the technical term for the gathering was “symposium”, “Call to Arms for the Solar Industry” seems appropriate as well.
One direct call to action was centered around solar education – the mission to correct the solar mis-information that is currently clouding the truth. “Solar Myths” are far too common already, simply because many people don’t understand the technology. Add a layer of well-funded, anti-solar lobbyists and political interests, and these myths are perpetuated to the level of assumed truth. This was made obvious in the recent Florida PSC hearing, where Chairman Art Graham mis-quoted solar myths as if they were facts. Dr. Stephen Smith, of Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, spent some time [at Re-Energize Florida] discussing the issues with some of PSC’s arguments as well as the importance of correcting this solar mis-information.
Public perception is largely on the side of solar, despite the political challenges and myths that continue to be touted as fact. Also at the event, Dan Judy, of NorthStar Opinion Research, presented results from a new poll recently conducted in the state of Florida. The poll showed very strong bi-partisan support for solar, as well as strong bi-partisan support for a variety of pro-solar policies as well. So where does this leave us? Susan Glickman, Florida Director for Southern Alliance for Clean Energy, likened it to the Tobacco wars of years past. Public perception and political decisions don’t always align, but it is our responsibility to get that back on track! Chris Castro, founder of IDEAS, and Karl Rabago, PACE Energy & Climate Center echoed that sentiment.
Progress requires strategic planning and then real action. If one thing was clear after the event on Friday, it was this: The planning and action that takes place in the next several months will be absolutely crucial in determining the next several YEARS of the solar industry in Florida. Mike Antheil, Director of Advocacy for FlaSEIA, emphasized the need for continued efforts as he closed the event with a pointed exhortation to not let the discussions end with that day’s schedule. Hear, hear! We’re moving forward in this fight and hope that you will join us as well!