2008 Energy and Economic Development Legislation

House Bill 7135, the 2008 Energy and Economic Development Legislation, was unanimously passed by the 2008 Florida Legislature and signed in June by Governor Crist. This comprehensive energy and economic development policy will stimulate Florida's economy, reduce pollution, increase energy efficiency and give Florida a more secure energy future - guiding the Sunshine State into a new era of alternative energy and "green" industry technologies.

The legislation sets forth a number of new requirements and goals, including the following:

• Consolidating state energy policy within the Florida Energy and Climate Commission, established within the Executive Office of the Governor.
• Creating a Renewable Portfolio Standard for utilities as well as a Renewable Fuel Standard.
• Requiring major emitters to report emissions through The Climate Registry and calling for the development of a cap-and-trade system to regulate greenhouse gas emissions.
• Creating a new consortium of state universities to bolster and share research and scientific discoveries in energy technologies.
• Expanding incentive programs to continue encouraging development in alternative and renewable energy technologies, including the Solar Rebate Program and the Renewable Energy and Energy-Efficient Technologies Grant Program.

In addition, the package includes provisions to increase energy conservation and efficiency in our homes, businesses and communities in the following ways:

• A grant program encourages local governments to develop and implement "green" programs in their communities.
• The legislation continues Governor Crist's goal of state government leading by example to reduce harmful emissions and increase efficiency. To achieve this goal, the 2008 Energy and Economic Development Legislation increases energy efficiency requirements for state-owned buildings and directs state agencies to purchase fuel-efficient vehicles, whenever possible.
• Energy efficiency codes for building construction are strengthened, making new buildings at least 50 percent more energy efficient by 2019 and increasing energy efficiency requirements for some appliances, swimming pool equipment and water heaters.