The next step for solar energy in the Sunshine State

Armando Olivera (third from left), president and CEO of Florida Power & Light, participated in an executive roundtable discussion at the 2011 Solar Power International trade show and conference in Dallas, Texas. Armando spoke about the future of solar power in Florida.

Florida Power & Light's commitment to increasing solar-generated electricity in Florida was recognized on a global stage, where the company's leadership was also honored for its vision and understanding of solar energy's importance.

At the October 2011 Solar Power International (SPI) conference, FPL President and CEO Armando J. Olivera detailed the successes and benefits of the company's ongoing investment in clean energy initiatives and the great potential that solar energy represents for the Sunshine State's economy and residents. At the same conference, Armando was honored with the Utility CEO of the Year award.

SPI is North America's largest and most comprehensive solar power trade show and conference, and is sponsored by the Solar Electric Power Association (SEPA) and the Solar Energies Industry Association (SEIA.) In recognizing Armando, SEPA noted that FPL has built more solar power than any other utility in the U.S.

"2011 has been a watershed year for the addition of solar electricity onto the grid thanks to leadership, creative thinking and collaboration from all corners of the utility and solar industries," said Julia Hamm, president and CEO of SEPA, an educational and non-profit organization.

NextEra Energy, Inc. is the largest generator of solar power in the country today. The company co-owns and operates seven solar plants in California. And in Florida, FPL has constructed three large-scale solar energy facilities — all of which are generating emissions-free energy.

"At FPL, harnessing the sun's energy and believing in the value and promise of renewable sources of power is an important part of who we are," Armando said.
"Our goal is not simply to participate in the move toward renewable sources of energy — it is to help lead the way."

Armando told participants at SPI that growing solar energy in Florida will require legislative and regulatory support. FPL is prepared to increase its solar capacity literally fivefold, and will continue working to encourage state leaders to help move these plans forward quickly.

"The projects now on the drawing board would mean cleaner air, energy security for Florida and more jobs," he said. "The fact is our pursuit of solar energy is part of our overall dedication to sustainability. It is a reflection of our desire to be the best possible stewards of our environment. But it is also in keeping with our commitment to provide reliable, affordable energy to our customers, while keeping America strong and energy independent."

To learn more about FPL's renewable energy projects, visit http://www.fpl.com/environment/solar/projects.shtml.