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How Florida Quietly Became A Solar Powerhouse
CNBCยท2025-07-31 16:01

Solar Energy Growth in Florida - Florida is experiencing a solar energy boom, catching up with Texas in utility-scale solar capacity [3][7] - Florida overtook California in new utility-scale solar capacity in 2024, adding over 3 gigawatts, enough to power around 600,000 homes [8] - Solar makes up roughly 9% of Florida's electricity mix [3] - From 2019 through 2024, Florida ranked number two behind California for the most rooftop residential solar panels installed each year [18][23] Factors Driving Solar Growth - The economics of solar are favorable, making it a cost-effective energy source [3][4][17][18] - A special rule in Florida allows solar farms under 75MW to skip lengthy state-level reviews, speeding up projects and lowering costs [10][24] - Florida Power and Light built over 70% of the state's new solar capacity in 2024 [10] - The Inflation Reduction Act offered a 30% tax credit for large-scale solar [13] Challenges and Risks - Florida still relies on natural gas for 74% of its power [5][19] - The "One Big Beautiful Bill" is phasing out federal tax credits for rooftop and utility-scale solar earlier than planned, raising costs [5][20][21][27] - There is high anti-renewables or anti-climate change sentiment, potentially leading to community opposition [6][24] - The early expiration of tax credits reduces the tax credits available for solar and wind assets [21]