Governor DeSantis Protects Energy Freedom in Florida, Vetoes Anti-Rooftop Solar Bill

TALLAHASSEE, FL and WASHINGTON D.C. — In a major win for energy freedom and Florida’s clean energy economy, Governor Ron DeSantis vetoed a bill today that would have undercut the state’s growing rooftop solar market by phasing down net metering and allowing utilities to charge potentially unlimited fees on thousands of solar customers in the state.
 
Following is a statement from Abigail Ross Hopper, president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA):
 
“Today, Governor DeSantis helped secure the livelihoods of thousands of solar workers and protected the rights of Floridians to lower their electricity bills with solar. Florida is one of the fastest-growing solar markets in the country with new businesses popping up all across the state. This veto signals that Florida’s energy economy is open for business, and that the rights of state residents should be placed ahead of monopoly utility interests.
 
“SEIA worked tirelessly with our partners to beat back this bill, which would have raised electricity costs for millions of ratepayers during a period of historic inflation. The solar industry is grateful to Governor DeSantis for making this decision in the interest of consumer choice and protecting businesses, which are now ready to keep investing in the Sunshine State and maintain Florida’s place as a national solar leader.”
 

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About SEIA®: 

The Solar Energy Industries Association® (SEIA) is leading the transformation to a clean energy economy, creating the framework for solar to achieve 30% of U.S. electricity generation by 2030. SEIA works with its 1,000 member companies and other strategic partners to fight for policies that create jobs in every community and shape fair market rules that promote competition and the growth of reliable, low-cost solar power. Founded in 1974, SEIA is the national trade association for the solar and solar + storage industries, building a comprehensive vision for the Solar+ Decade through research, education and advocacy. Visit SEIA online at www.seia.org and follow @SEIA on Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. 

Media Contact: 

Morgan Lyons, SEIA’s Director of Communications, mlyons@seia.org (202) 556-2872