FFEI Fights for Solar Rebates

A group of us started a non-profit group, Floridians for Energy Independence, to try to get the solar rebates paid for the 8,000 disenfranchised voters who are waiting to see if they will get their checks. Despite great odds, we have been actively trying to get a Public Benefits Fund attached to a bill as an amendment. We have been reaching out to the republican leadership through a grass roots movement (www.ffei.org)and there are some of the letters that have been sent to Senators Bennett, Atwater, & Alexander.

Dear Senator Bennett,

I am happy to hear that you may be considering drafting a new bill that will create a public benefits fund for solar installations in Florida. I would just like to voice my complete support for this idea. I would me more than happy to pay $.25 per month to fund this effort, in fact I think it should be $1.00 or more per month. $12per year is a small price to pay for distributed, renewable energy for Florida. It seems that our most vulnerable system is our energy grid, in which production is centered around a few key targets. Distribution of energy production on individual roofs would greatly help to mitigate against this risk. With all the talk of terrorism lately, I feel that this is a point that is often overlooked and the solution to it is so readily available.

The oil leak off of the coast of Louisiana is said to potentially reach the shores of Florida as early as tomorrow. Need I say more?

Lastly, it is apparent that distributed solar will create many jobs throughout the state, and keep the jobs of many already struggling electricians and contractors. I know several electricians and contractors that are planning on learning more about solar or are getting certified as a solar contractor as a way to fill the gaps between their typical work, but the lack of a Public Benefits Fund will greatly impact the viability of this idea.

We need energy security, environmental protection, energy independence, and job creation more than we ever have. This one bill could help to solve four problems at once. I didn't even get into the benefits of peak demand reduction and the lowering of utility rates across the board. This should not be a voluntary contribution!! $3.00 per year is nothing! Please make every effort to make this a mandatory charge for every meter in the state.
Please make this happen for us!!

Jonathan Lee