The rooftop solar industry supports sustained economic development throughout Florida and generates $18.3 billion in economic impact, according to a new study released on Tuesday by Conservatives for Clean Energy Florida (CCE).
The Washington Economics Group produced the study “Comprehensive Economic Development Impacts of the Rooftop Solar Power Industry on the State of Florida.” Among its key findings, the study assessed the economic value of rooftop solar in Florida, determining that the industry provides a combined $3.2 billion in household income for Florida workers and contributes $10.6 billion to the state’s gross domestic product.
“This study demonstrates just how economically important the solar energy industry is to Florida, from the state level down to individual homeowners,” said Conservatives for Clean Energy Florida Director George Riley. “The rooftop solar industry is a catalyst for economic growth that will help power our state forward, and that’s why lawmakers should support important policies like net metering that provide opportunities for small businesses and families to take control of their energy bills and create jobs.”
The study found that more than 40,000 Florida jobs are supported by the rooftop solar power industry, from knowledge-based services and government roles to wholesale trade and construction jobs. Florida’s rooftop solar industry is the fourth largest in the nation, with over 400 solar businesses in the Sunshine State.
“The growth of Florida’s rooftop solar power industry creates vast, measurable economic impacts that generate high-wage employment for Floridians and make important contributions to household income each year,” said Tony Villamil, the founder and principal advisor of the Washington Economics Group, Inc. “This study makes clear that the industry’s impacts enhance long-lasting economic growth and will benefit Florida’s residents and businesses for years to come.”
Solar energy currently powers almost 800,000 Florida homes, and that number is expected to continue growing. According to the study, solar is projected to meet up to 30 percent of Florida’s total electricity needs over the next 10 years.
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