Floridians for Solar Choice Collects 100,000 Signatures for Ballot Initiative

Cost and accessibility are two of the biggest proponents for the growth of the solar industry. Solar energy equipment, installation, and upkeep is becoming increasingly affordable, which is in turn giving its popularity among alternative energies a boost. The cost of solar energy is slowly being chiseled away by new technologies and a more prominent return-on-investment, but what about accessibility? That’s the goal of the petition put forth by Floridians for Solar Choice, and now, they have officially collected 100,000 signatures, enough to take the next step toward that goal.

The coalition is made up of an odd variety of liberals, conservatives, environmentalists, and Tea Party members, who have come together to get the future of solar out of the utilities’ hands. In the words of coalition director, Tory Perfetti, the focus of their efforts is “to give people more choice through the free market while practicing sound environmental stewardship…” The response to these efforts have been very promising, but the group knows there is a long road ahead.

In addition to the likelihood of losing credibility on about 20% of their signatures, the ballot must also be reviewed by the state Supreme Court, and the successful collection of these signatures is vital to moving forward with that process. If the Supreme Court deems the ballot focused, accurate, and appropriate, the initiative could likely be in an upcoming ballot.

Advocates of the measure say they expect continued opposition from Florida utilities, but they are also anticipating an influx of support from a number of like-minded parties. Needless to say, it certainly feels like a win for solar supporters state-wide, as it could lead to more cost-efficient and accessible solar energy. But only time will tell if the coalition and its initiatives can keep up momentum.