Solar energy use will increase by 44 percent in Florida, report finds
Solar energy use in Florida is expected to increase by 44 percent over the next 10 years, according to a new report from the Florida Public Service Commission (PSC).
As a percentage of Florida’s overall electricity, renewables will increase from the current 2 percent to about 8 percent in that same period.
The state will see the installation of 7,125 megawatts (MW) of solar generation, including 5,551 MW of utility-owned solar and 1,574 MW of contracted solar.
“Utility site plans provide us with a roadmap to meet Florida’s energy needs over the next 10 years and ensure future reliability,” PSC Commissioner Gary Clark said. “Interestingly, this planning cycle differs from others in that renewable capacity is projected to become the second highest installed capacity source in our state. With utilities deploying battery storage options, solar energy will become more useful and its role will continue to grow,” Clark added.
The majority of renewable capacity in Florida, about 73 percent, is represented by biomass, solar, and municipal solid waste. Other renewable resources include waste heat, landfill gas, and hydroelectric.
Utilities submit Ten-Year Site Plans (TYSP) annually to the Commission. A PSC workshop was held on Monday, October 29, to discuss the plans of the state’s 11 largest electric utilities. Each utility’s plan identifies system upgrades and modifications needed to maintain adequate reliability over the next 10 years.
Florida PSC’s annual Ten-Year Site Plan Report can be accessed at www.floridapsc.com.
