Florida Utilities Attempting to Silence Solar Advocates

TALLAHASEE, Fla., June 19, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Florida utilities are lobbying to shut rooftop solar out of a Public Service Commission proceeding that will shape the future of rooftop solar in the state. The Alliance for Solar Choice (TASC), which represents the majority of the rooftop solar industry, is seeking to participate in this proceeding to support solar market development.  While TASC works to empower consumers to choose rooftop solar and enable Florida to live up to its reputation as "The Sunshine State," Florida utilities are advocating for the opposite. 

The proceeding, before the Florida Public Service Commission, will shape utility incentive programs for rooftop solar. The development, stability, and long-term potential of rooftop solar in the state depend on these programs. These are programs that the utilities are now attempting to shut down. TASC is the primary voice for that market and TASC advocates for the interests of both local Floridian and national rooftop solar companies.

The Alliance for Solar Choice began working in Florida earlier this year with the addition of Florida-based Demeter Power Group to their member companies. TASC works across the country to defend against attacks on rooftop solar and fight for strong, stable rooftop solar policies and consumer energy choice.

"Why would Florida Power & Light, along with the other Florida utilities, object to the rooftop solar industry's involvement in discussions that will impact consumer access to solar?" asked Michael Wallander, President of Demeter Power Group. "The Alliance for Solar Choice speaks for the rooftop solar industry. This can only be construed as another example of utilities seeking to shut out competition to preserve their antiquated monopoly."

Poll after poll demonstrates overwhelming public support for rooftop solar and the policies that support consumer choice to go solar. A recent poll in Florida shows that more than 75% of residents across party lines support rooftop solar and the fundamental policy called net metering. The Florida utilities' coordinated effort to exclude TASC from the regulatory proceeding runs counter to the utilities' own customers' interest in rooftop solar and clean energy choice.

CONTACT: Susan Glick, 415-580-6874, [email protected]

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SOURCE The Alliance for Solar Choice

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