BY MARK SAMUELIAN
Florida is at a critical energy turning point. The Florida Public Service Commission (PSC) is reviewing the Florida Energy Efficiency Conservation Act (FEECA), which means it can establish better energy efficiency goals for our utilities and improve how they are measuring energy efficiency.
The PSC can meet our state’s energy needs, cut Floridians’ energy bills and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by making our state more energy efficient.
Sound energy policy is a key component to maintaining a balanced energy budget. Florida uses more energy than it produces. We can ensure supply meets demand by increasing the state’s energy supply or decreasing its demand through energy-efficiency measures. Our state benefits more if energy efficiency is a priority.
A better way to balance the state’s energy budget is to decrease energy demand. Utilities can eliminate energy waste by offering programs that help or incentivize residents to be more energy efficient by taking measures such as replacing old water heaters, fixing air conditioners and adding insulation to ceilings and walls. This approach is the simplest, least expensive way to meet our energy needs. These measures not only reduce energy demand, they also shrink electric bills and reduce environmental impact…
