Thousands of New Jobs, Megawatts of Renewable Energy, Florida’s Green Economy BOOMING - ONLY YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Legislators tell us they MUST see YOUR Faces in Tallahassee in order to pass a Renewable Energy Dividend policy state wide. Transportation will be available to you from your nearest large metro area. Go to www.FAREnergy.org for details and registration.
Date: 03/24/09
Time: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Meet at: Tallahassee Community College Capitol Center
Downtown, 300 West Pensacola St
Please join us for this very important event!
Advocates of effective renewable energy policies will gather at the State Capitol on March 24th, 2009 to show their support for the most effective renewable energy policy our legislature can adopt: Renewable Energy Dividends. Join renewable energy businesses, experts, and advocates, including manufacturers and representatives from the world’s largest renewable energy industry companies. Replicating the success of Gainesville, Florida and introducing a Renewable Energy Dividend policy will bring widespread economic recovery and job creation to Florida, while establishing energy security and environmental stewardship.
Try to wear YELLOW. It can be a shirt, hat, scarf, ANYTHING to give a bolder message!
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy “FARE” is a coalition of concerned individuals, businesses, communities, associations, utilities, policy makers, non-profits, and renewable energy producers. FARE is dedicated to educating and engaging Floridians on effective Renewable Energy Policies.
Let Sunshine Power the Sunshine State!
Contact:
Faye Roller – Administrative Director
Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy
www.FAREnergy.org
faye@solarsource.net
Jane Maxwell - FARE Member:
727-709-3398
Register at www.FAREnergy.org
Hi Roy, Here is a way to help and give tools to all of us for getting more RE projects started. I have been pushing for the sell of US Treasury "Energy Independence Savings Bonds". Savings bonds are normally purchased in $25 increments. This gives a way for just about any American to tighten their belts just a bit by skipping a meal at McDonalds or Pizza Hut and buying a RE savings bond to support a project. I need help pushing this project, I've faxed and emailed many in Congress/Senate already. My email is ke6cvh@yahoo.com. Here is a copy of a fax sent to Nancy Pelosi yesterday:
27FEB09
Honorable Speaker of the House Congresswoman Pelosi,
I am an Electronic Technician Chief in the US Navy with 27 years service stationed overseas. I’m outlying an idea to assist and work with current plans for achieving energy independence. I urge you, as speaker of the house and the driving force to form the select committee on energy independence and global warming, consider for discussion and introduction into the house US Treasury Savings Bonds for Energy Independance.
In WWII America sold war bonds supporting the war effort. When young, my mother told me her primary school raised enough money through bonds to build a tank to support troops. I am impressed with the patriotism and purpose of our greatest generation that accomplished so much.
Selling energy bonds for RE (Renewable Energy) development would lower foreign oil imports and assist with the complex problem of funding. Bonds sold as “Energy S” could support new solar trough plants, “Energy W” to support wind farms, Energy “H” to support hydroelectric plants, Energy “T” to support RE transportation such as electric bullet train routes powered by RE, Energy "C" COOPS for small communities only needing a small quantity of turbines, and Energy “I” for needed infrastructure high voltage power lines to the RE site. Bonds will have the project name and include an artist’s perspective of the project and an American flag. President Obama had great success with the internet during his campaign. In a similar manner, using the internet, energy bonds could have a website listing current projects and an “electronic checkout” could purchase a bond $25 or higher. Simpler methods of payment such as “PAYPAL” and credit cards would be available and after an electronic purchase is complete a color print out of the bond is available with a follow up of the bond in the mail. The website would limit quantity of projects for each category until funding is complete. After a project becomes funded, a new project will be available. A tab on the site will show history and status of previous projects. Purchasers may take great pride in “collecting” and displaying bonds of various RE projects and participating at different levels of financial support. Solar trough plants in the multi-hundred MW size capacity with molten salt energy storage in California, Arizona, and West Texas can provide a major portion of electric needs. North Dakota has potential to support 1/3 of our nations electric needs in it’s class 4 wind zone areas. There are plenty of suitable proposed wind turbine farms now around the nation to significantly increase our RE if funded. Mid sized hydro-electric has not been used in America to it’s full potential. Following the example of our neighbor, Canada, it would provide a significant increase in percentage of electric production. Developing all three we could provide the majority of our electric and heating needs through renewable energy in a "New New Deal" fashion allowing natural gas for transportation as T. Boone Pickens is working for. Bullet train routes have proven a viable alternative to commercial domestic air service and when powered by electricity provided by RE suppliers America would be in the forefront of world technology. Example, I heard of discussion for a commuter train from Denver to Colorado Springs. Such a route built as a renewable energy project with charter requirement legally requiring to only purchase electricity from available renewable energy sources would be a model example. There are many train routes, city bus systems, and government vehicles that can be converted to run from alternative energy sources and fuels. Jobs created would bolster the economy, lower trade deficit, and strengthen national security. I would take great pride in print outs of bonds with graphics of each project I supported and many other Americans would also. The energy bonds could have tax breaks. BLM lands may be a viable place to start for some projects.
I contacted the US treasury department and was told that the marketing department for savings bonds closed several years ago. I was told there would be problems because savings bonds are at the federal level while the projects will be at the state and local level. I disagree and believe that these can easily be figured out in the way of grants to the state and local level using money from the bonds for those specific projects. I was told to check out auctions on the www.treasurydirect.gov website and found them to not apply to citizens wanting to buy savings bonds to support a cause such as energy independance. I was told by the treasury department to look into CREB (Clean Renewable Energy Bonds). I found CREB to be large scale funding that a citizen would not be able to participate in as a US Treasury Energy Independance Bond would provide. If given the tools to participate directly, the power of the citizens of the United States to help achieve energy independance could not be denied. Americans mean well and the Energy Independance Savings bond program will give citizens the power at their level to make it happen. If marketed through a web page, commercials, and to federal employees the word would get out and participation would spread like wildfire.
Mr. Paul Gipe, a resident of Bakersfield CA, an author of several books about wind energy, and recipient of multiple awards as a pioneer in the industry since the 1970's has put a letter I wrote to Senator Dorgan on this subject as well as an older letter I wrote on wind COOP in JAN07. These websites are:
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy (FARE), with support from the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) and the Alliance for Renewable Energy (ARE) are pleased to invite you to join us for a discussion on:
Effective Renewable Energy Policies: Stimulating Job Creation, Long Term Investments, and Improving Energy Security
Featuring discussions on Feed in Tariffs, Net Metering, Rebates, and Gainesville, FL., the first municipality in the United States to introduce a Feed in Tariff policy.
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009
12-7 pm in Tallahassee
Doubletree Hotel
101 South Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
(850) 224-5000
The focus of the conference is the deployment of renewable energy in Florida resulting in jobs and energy security. Experts from around the world and participants from various stakeholder organizations will discuss policies to stimulate vast investment in renewable energy to increase energy security and job creation in Florida. Building on Governor Crist’s vision of 20% renewables by 2020, this event will provide first hand experiences from Florida, other states and European countries on what policies are most effective in achieving renewable targets.
Solar on every rooftop!
Panels will include:
· ‘Lessons from Europe and US States’ – Deployment of successful renewable policies.
· Costs vs. Benefits – The potential opportunity if policies are right.
· What energy policies will drive the market and bring jobs to Florida?
· Florida based implementation.
· Legislative Roundtable.
Key objectives:
· Explore green jobs and long term investments.
· Discuss Renewable Energy Payments, also known as Feed in Tariffs, regarding their significant potential to address climate change, create new jobs and support the renewable energy industry
· Further develop policies that have driven the clean technology markets.
· Update on the Renewable Portfolio Standard rules from the PSC.
· Strengthen and Support legislative initiatives in Florida.
· Explore various levels of initiatives adopted by utilities.
· Build coalitions and network.
· The Gainesville Solar Feed in Tariff.
Who will attend: State legislators, environmental and energy advocates, renewable energy industry representatives,local and state utilities, local government officials interested in green job economic development, nonprofits and foundations committed to a renewable energy future.
Speakers will include: leading environmental organizations, Florida State legislators, investors, renewable energy industry organizations and leading energy companies.
Featuring:
· Gainesville Mayor Pegeen Hanrahan
· Florida State Representative Keith Fitzgerald
· Paul Gipe, Alliance for Renewable Energy
· Toby Couture, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
· Dr. Murray Cameron, Phoenix Solar
· Jerry Karnas, Environmental Defense Fund
· Barry Moline, Florida Municipal Electric Association
· Ed Regan, Gainesville Regional Utilities
· Christy Herig, Solar Electric Power Association
· Jerome Guillet, Head of Energy, Dexia
Inquiries contact Faye Roller at faye@FAREnergy.org or visit www.FAREnergy.org
Hey Roy,
Re your Job Creation, Energy Independence, Environmental Stewardship comment. Its a bit long winded to leave as a comment on people's page. It might be better to create a forum and/or group for exposure of this topic, and then send a short invitation to people to visit that page!
This gentleman wrote an Editorial article about Solar Power in my local newspaper (he sent me the link) and I have been corresponding with him about the Pickens Plan. I am posting this for any Solar Group who would like to get in touch with Mr. Eckhart to publish a column in the Treasure Coast Newspaper.
Mrs. Grenstein,
Thank you again and if there is anything I can do to help, let me know. We need to combine all the environmental and industry groups together. A main block that shows we carry votes. This pressure should be applied to the governor, legislators and the psc. If they don't want to play ball, then we need to get rid of them for the good of the state and environment. Mr. Crist ran on the promise of "green jobs", well he better do as he says. Also, if you or anyone else wants to publish a column of 600 words or less, I can get run in the Treasure Coast Newspaper, which is part of Scripps. The editor is going through the rebate process and wrote a whole page in the editorial section of the paper on 11/17/08, asking the question why isn't this program properly funded. He called out the solar industry, the governor and legislators. Thank you again.
Sincerely,
Rand Eckhart
President
Energy Structures & Systems, Inc.
P 772-419-6055
f 772-419-6054
c 561-248-9022
Roy,
Thanks for the link to the World Future Council. Unbelievable amount of good information there. I have been using some of the members of the Council as information sources for several years, it's good to see them working together.
Back to you later, after I have time to digest some more of their work.
Roy:
Could you please E-mail me (as attachment to regular E-mail) a copy of the picture with all the PV systems on every house.
drkugler@roadrunner.com
Will give you credit for picture if you wish.
www.ElToroEXPOSED.com
Job Creation, Energy Independence, Environmental Stewardship
The energy market has dominated headlines for as long as can be remembered. As we climb our way out of the current economic cycle, new leaders are created and new industries will lead the way back to a strong, robust economy. Those who look to the future of the energy market know that Renewable Energy is an industry that is boiling over with potential. A growing new Renewable Energy industry in Florida will create untold thousands of jobs, collect millions in local tax revenues, and bring us to the forefront of the national stage on energy independence and environmental stewardship.
Renewable Energy Payments are a policy mechanism that have proven to promote the fastest, cheapest, and most widespread growth of Renewable Energy anywhere in the world, with implementation in over 45 countries. Currently at least 8 states in the U.S. are considering a Renewable Energy Payment (also known as Feed in Tariff) policy mechanism. Today the State of Florida is positioning itself ahead of the curve and providing a beacon for the rest of the country to follow by considering this policy mechanism.
A Renewable Energy Payment (REP) provides a fixed contract to the producers of Renewable Energy. The contracts, which are fixed for typically twenty years, afford the producer the ability to borrow against a mandated, guaranteed payment from their utility company. Also, these contracts, which are transparent, simple to understand, and open for inspection, include long-term agreed upon prices that the utility company will pay the producers for the energy it buys. The prices are set high enough to be an incentive to new producers and encourage existing producers to maximize their capacity.
The key components to a proven successful REP model:
• Anyone can access the grid, democratizing the new market and allowing anyone to produce renewable energy.
• All producers will receive a fixed payment, at reasonable rate of return, for a fixed period of time, typically 20 years, for the renewable energy that they produce.
• There is no limit to the amount of renewable energy that can be produced.
• The contracts are transparent and simple to understand.
With these features included in the design, a Renewable Energy Payment policy would create a stable and competitive renewable energy marketplace. Imagine if homes, churches, schools, hospitals, condo associations and ranchers could all install solar, wind and other renewable energy sources on their rooftops or land and then produce energy and sell it to the utilities for profit.... It could completely transform our economic landscape. Floridians are owed the chance to participate in the Renewable Energy market with a level playing field, and Renewable Energy Payments are the single most effective way to make sure this happens.
The key results of a REP market include:
• Job Creation. All levels of jobs are created including high-skilled positions in engineering, manufacturing, agriculture, and electronics. Jobs in banking and finance, breathing life in to a lending industry.
• Stability and Investment Security. REP incentives also have massive appeal to investors and lenders. Unlike Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) which have annually fluctuating values through a trading mechanism, REP incentives never change and never require any administration or additional cost. As long as the RE system is generating electricity it continues to make the system owner a guaranteed return on their investment.
• Stay at home revenue. With REPS, the revenue from producing renewable energy will stay in the county and state where it is produced. This will create "local wealth" and stimulate the local economy.
• Equality. REPs create a level playing field for all different sizes of renewable energy producers. It encourages individuals, small businesses and larger businesses to become renewable energy producers and rewards them all.
• Reduce Carbon Output. Burning fossil fuels releases 75% of the greenhouse gases that are heating the planet. It is estimated that by switching to renewable energy we can cut CO2 emissions in half by 2030.
• Stabilize Energy Costs. Communities that use locally produced renewable energy have more stable energy costs. Once the systems are set up, their renewable fuels such as sun and wind are low cost or free. Overall, energy costs will be more predictable and controllable, creating economic stability.
• Create Energy Security. Renewable energy production will lesson a community’s or nation’s vulnerability to increasing fossil fuel prices and will increase self-reliant economic growth. Those who install renewable energy the soonest will save the most. The costs for renewable energy are expected to decline due to economy of scale and technological progress.
REPs Basic Steps
1. Priority access to the grid over conventional fuel sources [prevents gaming from utilities inhibiting grid access] within [60] days for all systems
2. Purchase guarantee with standard offer contracts (SOC) with the local utility standardized by the Public Service Commission. Contracts shall be 20 years fixed price with an inflation escalator [makes projects financeable with low cost debt versus expensive equity – target should be >70% debt for most technologies]
3. The SOC will be the broadly the same for all system sizes under 20MW – with the intent that the SOC provides a speedy transparent method for a RE producer to sell power to the utility
4. Pricing will be determined by the PSC but would be based on cost plus reasonable profit
a. To mimic the regulatory returns that regulated utilities currently enjoy in Florida for fossil generation projects.
b. Pricing to be differentiated by system size to factor in economies of scale that typically reduce installed costs for larger systems
c. We recommend that the PSC include in its calculation of return all federal ITC and other benefits such as accelerated depreciation.
d. A pricing digression methodology would be employed whereby every [2 years] the PSC can alter prices for new RE producers to factor in changes in costs
e. REPs by utilities for RE would be allowed to be recovered in the normal regulatory adjustment mechanism via a RE surcharge that would be allocated to each customer bill. The surcharge would be allocated by the PSC state wide to ensure that all customers pay for RE not just those customers of any one IOU
Renewable Energy Payments
REPs are a simple, elegant, and cost-effective mechanism for supporting large-scale RE deployments in aggressive timelines. Germany alone has deployed 12 times the RE as the US since 2001, even though they have 1/7th the population and have ¼ the renewable resources for solar and wind (RE breakdown: 46% wind, 24% biomass, 4% solar). The Germans have already achieved the implementation of RE which accounts for >15% of their total power generation resources.
Germany’s FIT Success Story (through 2007)
1. Total Grid Contribution:
a. Baseline of 6.6% in 2005
b. 15% achieved by 2007
c. New 27% goal by 2020
2. Wind: 20,000+ MW installed (30.5 TWh generated) [45%+ of market]
3. Solar: 5000+ MW installed (US had 250 MW in 2007) [4%+ of market]
4. Biomass: 27% of market
5. Hydro: 24% of market
Approximate Cost in Germany
1. ~$2.80 (USD) a month (price of a loaf of bread)
2. Total Policy Cost of $2.4. B dollars annually
3. Net Policy Benefit of $4.8 B dollars Annually
Benefits of the REP Policy
1. Costs the ratepayers ZERO ($0) if the market does not support
2. REQUIRES NO STATE GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION or tax credit support
3. Incentives are calculated around each RE technology’s cost structure and are adjusted on a set performance schedule
4. Supports all RE technologies equally or can be adjusted for weighted average
5. Will help lower grid electricity prices through widespread adoption of RE into the power mix with low/no fuel input costs over the long term
REP Policies – Overview
1. Florida should immediately begin to increase its proportion of solar and renewable energy. In doing so it will:
• Improve Florida’s energy security by reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels
• Create a wealth machine from solar and renewable energy. New construction, installation, electrical, manufacturing and finance jobs emerge as we expand on and establish a vibrant solar and renewable industry in Florida
• Improve our environment now and for the future citizens of Florida
2. REPs greatly increase competition in the renewable electricity generating sector in Florida. REPs policies allow everyone to become a solar and renewable energy producer up to 20MW per project, encouraging residential, commercial and larger investment groups to invest in and participate in solar and other renewable energy production. Each producer is allowed to self generate renewable power and sell the power back to their local utility
3. Utilities have hitherto been reluctant to invest the time and resources in building out small scale renewables projects since it adds minimal benefit to their earnings per share. Conversely, smaller renewable projects are best done by households, local community groups (churches/schools), farmers and developers, commercial groups and renewables companies. These policies therefore encourage renewable generation competition, and allow for a more efficient matching of producer and renewable resources. REPs allow a vast deployment of sub 20MW solar and renewable energy projects by providing solar and renewable energy priority access to the transmission grid and requiring that the utilities buy whatever power is produced.
4. Cost – REPs require NO taxation, NO upfront state payments or subsidies; the cost of paying the renewables producers is passed through to all utility customers through the usual PSC rate recovery mechanism. Costs will only rise if these policies are successful in delivering rapid deployment of renewables. Caps can be introduced to manage the desired growth.
5. Market mechanism – the state policy framework allows the private sector and market forces to work and invest; unlike renewable energy credits, there is no need for any state administration.
6. The solar and renewable energy REPs policy requires that all solar and renewable energy generating technologies are part of the solution. It is required that all renewable energy technologies as defined in [section 366.91] Florida Statutes, become part of the comprehensive REPs policy.
Recent REP Headlines
Nov. 18th Rep. Law introduces a feed in style renewable energy project in Michigan
Nov. 12th Gainesville Moves Forward on Feed-in Tariff
Nov. 7th. "Nov 4th" was a great day for Renewable Energy
Oct. 20th: Florida conference looks at German solar experience
Minnesota Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff Bill
Illinois: Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff Introduced in House of Representatives
Feed-in Tariff for California First
Germany sets shining example in providing a harvest for the world
Hi PP member,
Please checkout this website, as this is a Sun, Heat and Wind energy system in one, please give us your feedback as we try to improve it.
www.solarbotanic.com
Looking forward to hear from you
Alex
At 7:40am on September 25, 2008, W. Dan Chance said…
Hi Roy, Thanks for the post on my page. I had read this before but more thoroughly this time. Please explain one thing to me. Why is the avoided cost paid to the RE producer considered an additional cost that must be shared among all consumers of the power grid? Why doesn't the power company simply reduce it's production using other sources and thus offset the cost of paying RE producers?
At 6:44am on September 22, 2008, Bill Tucker said…
Hello to all,
Let me start by thanking everyone who is part of the search for solutions to our collective independence from foreign oil and climate endangering use of gasoline and diesel vehicle fuel.
One of the largest obstacles locally to T. Boone’s plan is the lack of open to the public CNG fueling stations, and the fact that few if any are in the planning stages. To correct this and allow for Central Florida to become part of the solution to our collective problem, I am looking for assistance from legal and accounting professionals that would be part of a group to study the feasibility of establishing a not for profit corporation.
The not for profit corporation would be used to jump start the establishment of Central Florida CNG and Hydrogen fueling stations that would be open to the public. By establishing open to the public CNG and Hydrogen fueling stations the public would be encouraged to purchase or convert vehicles to CNG, and would allow companies like Honda to make available Hydrogen vehicles like the FCX Clarity. At present Honda is producing the FCX Clarity only in limited quantities and those vehicles will not be available anywhere in the southeastern U.S. because we have no open to the public Hydrogen fueling stations.
I am also looking for people with prior fund raising experience and volunteers that would be interested in pushing this agenda. Anyone who is interested in discussing this further is encouraged to contact me either by Pickens Plan email or forum post on the Local projects group forum “Starting a CNG fueling station”
I think we have been working at parralel purposes, towards Solar solutions. Time to start working together. Thank you for your contributions. I am joining the Alliance.
At 4:54am on September 16, 2008, Bill Tucker said…
Roy,
Sounds like things are moving right along. Just so you know it is your explanation to me that I am using.
I don't believe anything will be realized if the Republicians retain power at the federal level. I will continue my work with state legislators and communicating will Senators and Congressman from Florida as I have so far recieved very good responses from both.
Please keep me updated. If there is something more I can do just let me know.
At 10:56am on September 15, 2008, Bill Tucker said…
Hello Roy,
Hey I just recieved this email from Kevin Wiehle, he says he is an anyalst with the PSC and is writing after a discussion with Florida Senator Bill Posey's staff:
Mr. Tucker,
I am an analyst with the Florida Senate Committee on Communication and Public Utilities. I talked to Russ, Senator Posey’s aide, about these issues last Friday.
The proposed rule language being discussed at the PSC staff level right now is a preliminary draft. It may change significantly. It does sound like they are trying to balance all interests and create an RPS requirement that will provide an incentive for all producers of renewable energy.
Whatever the PSC ultimately does with an RPS rule will have to come to the Legislature for approval. Staff is aware of the issues you raise, and will keep them in mind during this process.
In the meantime, we are working on a report to identify issues and considerations policymakers should take into account when making any policy changes relating to electricity. This report is due on October 1, and will be released sometime after that. We will get a copy to Senator Posey’s office when it is released. You can obtain a copy online at http://www.flsenate.gov/Committees/index.cfm?Mode=Committee%20Publications&Submenu=2&Tab=committees.
Thanks for your interest and input.
Kevin
At 2:44am on September 13, 2008, Bill Tucker said…
Roy,
I sent the explanation on REC vs. REP to U.S. Senators Nelson and Martinez, Congressional candidate Bill Posey, Florida Senatoral candidate Kendall Moore, and Florida House candidate Wes McCarville.
I have recieved a very positive response from Bill Posey, a commitment to research further by Wes McCarville, nothing as yet from the others. From reading your post about Gov. Crist's 2nd summit, I get the feeling that the Gov. and his staff already know that REP's are the way to go. However as you pointed out in the post our utility companies are lining up against REP.
We need to get more Floridians involved now, so we can apply more pressure to our legislators before the elections. I here by extend you a formal invitation to join both the Space Coast for Pickens and the Pickens Plan for Central Florida groups. I have been reposting your explanations to me on these boards and others, it would never hurt to have the man himself there to help.
am helping Ken get the word out to the folks on his list.
Have you seen T. boones AUTO MATIC system to send
e-mail to your rep. You type in a few key strokes and
it auto adresses the e-mail to all your reps and the GOV.
of your state based on zip code. Has a sugested draft of a letter to send. NEVER EASYER. Spread the word to click on the ACTION CENTER at the main web site.
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Thousands of New Jobs, Megawatts of Renewable Energy, Florida’s Green Economy BOOMING - ONLY YOU CAN MAKE IT HAPPEN!
Legislators tell us they MUST see YOUR Faces in Tallahassee in order to pass a Renewable Energy Dividend policy state wide. Transportation will be available to you from your nearest large metro area. Go to www.FAREnergy.org for details and registration.
Date: 03/24/09
Time: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm
Meet at: Tallahassee Community College Capitol Center
Downtown, 300 West Pensacola St
Please join us for this very important event!
Advocates of effective renewable energy policies will gather at the State Capitol on March 24th, 2009 to show their support for the most effective renewable energy policy our legislature can adopt: Renewable Energy Dividends. Join renewable energy businesses, experts, and advocates, including manufacturers and representatives from the world’s largest renewable energy industry companies. Replicating the success of Gainesville, Florida and introducing a Renewable Energy Dividend policy will bring widespread economic recovery and job creation to Florida, while establishing energy security and environmental stewardship.
Agenda:
7-8 am Registration
8-9:30 Briefing/Training
9:30-11:45 Lobbying
1 pm Rally & Press Conference
1-5 Lobbying
5:15 Debrief
6 pm Depart
Try to wear YELLOW. It can be a shirt, hat, scarf, ANYTHING to give a bolder message!
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy “FARE” is a coalition of concerned individuals, businesses, communities, associations, utilities, policy makers, non-profits, and renewable energy producers. FARE is dedicated to educating and engaging Floridians on effective Renewable Energy Policies.
Let Sunshine Power the Sunshine State!
Contact:
Faye Roller – Administrative Director
Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy
www.FAREnergy.org
faye@solarsource.net
Jane Maxwell - FARE Member:
727-709-3398
Register at www.FAREnergy.org
27FEB09
Honorable Speaker of the House Congresswoman Pelosi,
I am an Electronic Technician Chief in the US Navy with 27 years service stationed overseas. I’m outlying an idea to assist and work with current plans for achieving energy independence. I urge you, as speaker of the house and the driving force to form the select committee on energy independence and global warming, consider for discussion and introduction into the house US Treasury Savings Bonds for Energy Independance.
In WWII America sold war bonds supporting the war effort. When young, my mother told me her primary school raised enough money through bonds to build a tank to support troops. I am impressed with the patriotism and purpose of our greatest generation that accomplished so much.
Selling energy bonds for RE (Renewable Energy) development would lower foreign oil imports and assist with the complex problem of funding. Bonds sold as “Energy S” could support new solar trough plants, “Energy W” to support wind farms, Energy “H” to support hydroelectric plants, Energy “T” to support RE transportation such as electric bullet train routes powered by RE, Energy "C" COOPS for small communities only needing a small quantity of turbines, and Energy “I” for needed infrastructure high voltage power lines to the RE site. Bonds will have the project name and include an artist’s perspective of the project and an American flag. President Obama had great success with the internet during his campaign. In a similar manner, using the internet, energy bonds could have a website listing current projects and an “electronic checkout” could purchase a bond $25 or higher. Simpler methods of payment such as “PAYPAL” and credit cards would be available and after an electronic purchase is complete a color print out of the bond is available with a follow up of the bond in the mail. The website would limit quantity of projects for each category until funding is complete. After a project becomes funded, a new project will be available. A tab on the site will show history and status of previous projects. Purchasers may take great pride in “collecting” and displaying bonds of various RE projects and participating at different levels of financial support. Solar trough plants in the multi-hundred MW size capacity with molten salt energy storage in California, Arizona, and West Texas can provide a major portion of electric needs. North Dakota has potential to support 1/3 of our nations electric needs in it’s class 4 wind zone areas. There are plenty of suitable proposed wind turbine farms now around the nation to significantly increase our RE if funded. Mid sized hydro-electric has not been used in America to it’s full potential. Following the example of our neighbor, Canada, it would provide a significant increase in percentage of electric production. Developing all three we could provide the majority of our electric and heating needs through renewable energy in a "New New Deal" fashion allowing natural gas for transportation as T. Boone Pickens is working for. Bullet train routes have proven a viable alternative to commercial domestic air service and when powered by electricity provided by RE suppliers America would be in the forefront of world technology. Example, I heard of discussion for a commuter train from Denver to Colorado Springs. Such a route built as a renewable energy project with charter requirement legally requiring to only purchase electricity from available renewable energy sources would be a model example. There are many train routes, city bus systems, and government vehicles that can be converted to run from alternative energy sources and fuels. Jobs created would bolster the economy, lower trade deficit, and strengthen national security. I would take great pride in print outs of bonds with graphics of each project I supported and many other Americans would also. The energy bonds could have tax breaks. BLM lands may be a viable place to start for some projects.
I contacted the US treasury department and was told that the marketing department for savings bonds closed several years ago. I was told there would be problems because savings bonds are at the federal level while the projects will be at the state and local level. I disagree and believe that these can easily be figured out in the way of grants to the state and local level using money from the bonds for those specific projects. I was told to check out auctions on the www.treasurydirect.gov website and found them to not apply to citizens wanting to buy savings bonds to support a cause such as energy independance. I was told by the treasury department to look into CREB (Clean Renewable Energy Bonds). I found CREB to be large scale funding that a citizen would not be able to participate in as a US Treasury Energy Independance Bond would provide. If given the tools to participate directly, the power of the citizens of the United States to help achieve energy independance could not be denied. Americans mean well and the Energy Independance Savings bond program will give citizens the power at their level to make it happen. If marketed through a web page, commercials, and to federal employees the word would get out and participation would spread like wildfire.
Mr. Paul Gipe, a resident of Bakersfield CA, an author of several books about wind energy, and recipient of multiple awards as a pioneer in the industry since the 1970's has put a letter I wrote to Senator Dorgan on this subject as well as an older letter I wrote on wind COOP in JAN07. These websites are:
http://www.wind-works.org/coopwind/RenewableEnergyBondsforEnergyIndependence.html
and
http://www.wind-works.org/articles/AmericanEnergyIndependencethroughCooperativeInvestmentinWindEnergy.html
Sincerely and very respectfully,
ETC(SW/AW) Mike Kendall USN
Mailing address: PSC 476, Box 879, FPO AP, 96322 USA
Telephone (803) 265-4756, Email: ke6cvh@yahoo.com
February 3rd Conference
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy (FARE), with support from the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) and the Alliance for Renewable Energy (ARE) are pleased to invite you to join us for a discussion on:
Effective Renewable Energy Policies: Stimulating Job Creation, Long Term Investments, and Improving Energy Security
Featuring discussions on Feed in Tariffs, Net Metering, Rebates, and Gainesville, FL., the first municipality in the United States to introduce a Feed in Tariff policy.
Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009
12-7 pm in Tallahassee
Doubletree Hotel
101 South Adams Street
Tallahassee, FL 32301
(850) 224-5000
The focus of the conference is the deployment of renewable energy in Florida resulting in jobs and energy security. Experts from around the world and participants from various stakeholder organizations will discuss policies to stimulate vast investment in renewable energy to increase energy security and job creation in Florida. Building on Governor Crist’s vision of 20% renewables by 2020, this event will provide first hand experiences from Florida, other states and European countries on what policies are most effective in achieving renewable targets.
Solar on every rooftop!Panels will include:
· ‘Lessons from Europe and US States’ – Deployment of successful renewable policies.
· Costs vs. Benefits – The potential opportunity if policies are right.
· What energy policies will drive the market and bring jobs to Florida?
· Florida based implementation.
· Legislative Roundtable.
Key objectives:
· Explore green jobs and long term investments.
· Discuss Renewable Energy Payments, also known as Feed in Tariffs, regarding their significant potential to address climate change, create new jobs and support the renewable energy industry
· Further develop policies that have driven the clean technology markets.
· Update on the Renewable Portfolio Standard rules from the PSC.
· Strengthen and Support legislative initiatives in Florida.
· Explore various levels of initiatives adopted by utilities.
· Build coalitions and network.
· The Gainesville Solar Feed in Tariff.
Who will attend: State legislators, environmental and energy advocates, renewable energy industry representatives,local and state utilities, local government officials interested in green job economic development, nonprofits and foundations committed to a renewable energy future.
Speakers will include: leading environmental organizations, Florida State legislators, investors, renewable energy industry organizations and leading energy companies.
Featuring:
· Gainesville Mayor Pegeen Hanrahan
· Florida State Representative Keith Fitzgerald
· Paul Gipe, Alliance for Renewable Energy
· Toby Couture, National Renewable Energy Laboratory
· Dr. Murray Cameron, Phoenix Solar
· Jerry Karnas, Environmental Defense Fund
· Barry Moline, Florida Municipal Electric Association
· Ed Regan, Gainesville Regional Utilities
· Christy Herig, Solar Electric Power Association
· Jerome Guillet, Head of Energy, Dexia
Inquiries contact Faye Roller at faye@FAREnergy.org or visit www.FAREnergy.org
<check this out!
http://www.solarbotanic.com
Real Green Solutions, with real green jobs coming to America
Join our efforts, visit my page
Alex
Re your Job Creation, Energy Independence, Environmental Stewardship comment. Its a bit long winded to leave as a comment on people's page. It might be better to create a forum and/or group for exposure of this topic, and then send a short invitation to people to visit that page!
Welcome to Green Jobs Now!
Melissa
Mrs. Grenstein,
Thank you again and if there is anything I can do to help, let me know. We need to combine all the environmental and industry groups together. A main block that shows we carry votes. This pressure should be applied to the governor, legislators and the psc. If they don't want to play ball, then we need to get rid of them for the good of the state and environment. Mr. Crist ran on the promise of "green jobs", well he better do as he says. Also, if you or anyone else wants to publish a column of 600 words or less, I can get run in the Treasure Coast Newspaper, which is part of Scripps. The editor is going through the rebate process and wrote a whole page in the editorial section of the paper on 11/17/08, asking the question why isn't this program properly funded. He called out the solar industry, the governor and legislators. Thank you again.
Sincerely,
Rand Eckhart
President
Energy Structures & Systems, Inc.
P 772-419-6055
f 772-419-6054
c 561-248-9022
www.esssolar
Thanks for the link to the World Future Council. Unbelievable amount of good information there. I have been using some of the members of the Council as information sources for several years, it's good to see them working together.
Back to you later, after I have time to digest some more of their work.
Could you please E-mail me (as attachment to regular E-mail) a copy of the picture with all the PV systems on every house.
drkugler@roadrunner.com
Will give you credit for picture if you wish.
www.ElToroEXPOSED.com
The energy market has dominated headlines for as long as can be remembered. As we climb our way out of the current economic cycle, new leaders are created and new industries will lead the way back to a strong, robust economy. Those who look to the future of the energy market know that Renewable Energy is an industry that is boiling over with potential. A growing new Renewable Energy industry in Florida will create untold thousands of jobs, collect millions in local tax revenues, and bring us to the forefront of the national stage on energy independence and environmental stewardship.
Renewable Energy Payments are a policy mechanism that have proven to promote the fastest, cheapest, and most widespread growth of Renewable Energy anywhere in the world, with implementation in over 45 countries. Currently at least 8 states in the U.S. are considering a Renewable Energy Payment (also known as Feed in Tariff) policy mechanism. Today the State of Florida is positioning itself ahead of the curve and providing a beacon for the rest of the country to follow by considering this policy mechanism.
A Renewable Energy Payment (REP) provides a fixed contract to the producers of Renewable Energy. The contracts, which are fixed for typically twenty years, afford the producer the ability to borrow against a mandated, guaranteed payment from their utility company. Also, these contracts, which are transparent, simple to understand, and open for inspection, include long-term agreed upon prices that the utility company will pay the producers for the energy it buys. The prices are set high enough to be an incentive to new producers and encourage existing producers to maximize their capacity.
The key components to a proven successful REP model:
• Anyone can access the grid, democratizing the new market and allowing anyone to produce renewable energy.
• All producers will receive a fixed payment, at reasonable rate of return, for a fixed period of time, typically 20 years, for the renewable energy that they produce.
• There is no limit to the amount of renewable energy that can be produced.
• The contracts are transparent and simple to understand.
With these features included in the design, a Renewable Energy Payment policy would create a stable and competitive renewable energy marketplace. Imagine if homes, churches, schools, hospitals, condo associations and ranchers could all install solar, wind and other renewable energy sources on their rooftops or land and then produce energy and sell it to the utilities for profit.... It could completely transform our economic landscape. Floridians are owed the chance to participate in the Renewable Energy market with a level playing field, and Renewable Energy Payments are the single most effective way to make sure this happens.
The key results of a REP market include:
• Job Creation. All levels of jobs are created including high-skilled positions in engineering, manufacturing, agriculture, and electronics. Jobs in banking and finance, breathing life in to a lending industry.
• Stability and Investment Security. REP incentives also have massive appeal to investors and lenders. Unlike Renewable Energy Certificates (RECs) which have annually fluctuating values through a trading mechanism, REP incentives never change and never require any administration or additional cost. As long as the RE system is generating electricity it continues to make the system owner a guaranteed return on their investment.
• Stay at home revenue. With REPS, the revenue from producing renewable energy will stay in the county and state where it is produced. This will create "local wealth" and stimulate the local economy.
• Equality. REPs create a level playing field for all different sizes of renewable energy producers. It encourages individuals, small businesses and larger businesses to become renewable energy producers and rewards them all.
• Reduce Carbon Output. Burning fossil fuels releases 75% of the greenhouse gases that are heating the planet. It is estimated that by switching to renewable energy we can cut CO2 emissions in half by 2030.
• Stabilize Energy Costs. Communities that use locally produced renewable energy have more stable energy costs. Once the systems are set up, their renewable fuels such as sun and wind are low cost or free. Overall, energy costs will be more predictable and controllable, creating economic stability.
• Create Energy Security. Renewable energy production will lesson a community’s or nation’s vulnerability to increasing fossil fuel prices and will increase self-reliant economic growth. Those who install renewable energy the soonest will save the most. The costs for renewable energy are expected to decline due to economy of scale and technological progress.
REPs Basic Steps
1. Priority access to the grid over conventional fuel sources [prevents gaming from utilities inhibiting grid access] within [60] days for all systems
2. Purchase guarantee with standard offer contracts (SOC) with the local utility standardized by the Public Service Commission. Contracts shall be 20 years fixed price with an inflation escalator [makes projects financeable with low cost debt versus expensive equity – target should be >70% debt for most technologies]
3. The SOC will be the broadly the same for all system sizes under 20MW – with the intent that the SOC provides a speedy transparent method for a RE producer to sell power to the utility
4. Pricing will be determined by the PSC but would be based on cost plus reasonable profit
a. To mimic the regulatory returns that regulated utilities currently enjoy in Florida for fossil generation projects.
b. Pricing to be differentiated by system size to factor in economies of scale that typically reduce installed costs for larger systems
c. We recommend that the PSC include in its calculation of return all federal ITC and other benefits such as accelerated depreciation.
d. A pricing digression methodology would be employed whereby every [2 years] the PSC can alter prices for new RE producers to factor in changes in costs
e. REPs by utilities for RE would be allowed to be recovered in the normal regulatory adjustment mechanism via a RE surcharge that would be allocated to each customer bill. The surcharge would be allocated by the PSC state wide to ensure that all customers pay for RE not just those customers of any one IOU
Renewable Energy Payments
REPs are a simple, elegant, and cost-effective mechanism for supporting large-scale RE deployments in aggressive timelines. Germany alone has deployed 12 times the RE as the US since 2001, even though they have 1/7th the population and have ¼ the renewable resources for solar and wind (RE breakdown: 46% wind, 24% biomass, 4% solar). The Germans have already achieved the implementation of RE which accounts for >15% of their total power generation resources.
Germany’s FIT Success Story (through 2007)
1. Total Grid Contribution:
a. Baseline of 6.6% in 2005
b. 15% achieved by 2007
c. New 27% goal by 2020
2. Wind: 20,000+ MW installed (30.5 TWh generated) [45%+ of market]
3. Solar: 5000+ MW installed (US had 250 MW in 2007) [4%+ of market]
4. Biomass: 27% of market
5. Hydro: 24% of market
Approximate Cost in Germany
1. ~$2.80 (USD) a month (price of a loaf of bread)
2. Total Policy Cost of $2.4. B dollars annually
3. Net Policy Benefit of $4.8 B dollars Annually
Benefits of the REP Policy
1. Costs the ratepayers ZERO ($0) if the market does not support
2. REQUIRES NO STATE GOVERNMENT ADMINISTRATION or tax credit support
3. Incentives are calculated around each RE technology’s cost structure and are adjusted on a set performance schedule
4. Supports all RE technologies equally or can be adjusted for weighted average
5. Will help lower grid electricity prices through widespread adoption of RE into the power mix with low/no fuel input costs over the long term
REP Policies – Overview
1. Florida should immediately begin to increase its proportion of solar and renewable energy. In doing so it will:
• Improve Florida’s energy security by reducing its dependence on imported fossil fuels
• Create a wealth machine from solar and renewable energy. New construction, installation, electrical, manufacturing and finance jobs emerge as we expand on and establish a vibrant solar and renewable industry in Florida
• Improve our environment now and for the future citizens of Florida
2. REPs greatly increase competition in the renewable electricity generating sector in Florida. REPs policies allow everyone to become a solar and renewable energy producer up to 20MW per project, encouraging residential, commercial and larger investment groups to invest in and participate in solar and other renewable energy production. Each producer is allowed to self generate renewable power and sell the power back to their local utility
3. Utilities have hitherto been reluctant to invest the time and resources in building out small scale renewables projects since it adds minimal benefit to their earnings per share. Conversely, smaller renewable projects are best done by households, local community groups (churches/schools), farmers and developers, commercial groups and renewables companies. These policies therefore encourage renewable generation competition, and allow for a more efficient matching of producer and renewable resources. REPs allow a vast deployment of sub 20MW solar and renewable energy projects by providing solar and renewable energy priority access to the transmission grid and requiring that the utilities buy whatever power is produced.
4. Cost – REPs require NO taxation, NO upfront state payments or subsidies; the cost of paying the renewables producers is passed through to all utility customers through the usual PSC rate recovery mechanism. Costs will only rise if these policies are successful in delivering rapid deployment of renewables. Caps can be introduced to manage the desired growth.
5. Market mechanism – the state policy framework allows the private sector and market forces to work and invest; unlike renewable energy credits, there is no need for any state administration.
6. The solar and renewable energy REPs policy requires that all solar and renewable energy generating technologies are part of the solution. It is required that all renewable energy technologies as defined in [section 366.91] Florida Statutes, become part of the comprehensive REPs policy.
Recent REP Headlines
Nov. 18th Rep. Law introduces a feed in style renewable energy project in Michigan
Nov. 12th Gainesville Moves Forward on Feed-in Tariff
Nov. 7th. "Nov 4th" was a great day for Renewable Energy
Oct. 20th: Florida conference looks at German solar experience
Minnesota Renewable Energy Feed-In Tariff Bill
Illinois: Renewable Energy Feed-in Tariff Introduced in House of Representatives
Feed-in Tariff for California First
Germany sets shining example in providing a harvest for the world
Solar World expands in Orgeon
Please checkout this website, as this is a Sun, Heat and Wind energy system in one, please give us your feedback as we try to improve it.
www.solarbotanic.com
Looking forward to hear from you
Alex
Let me start by thanking everyone who is part of the search for solutions to our collective independence from foreign oil and climate endangering use of gasoline and diesel vehicle fuel.
One of the largest obstacles locally to T. Boone’s plan is the lack of open to the public CNG fueling stations, and the fact that few if any are in the planning stages. To correct this and allow for Central Florida to become part of the solution to our collective problem, I am looking for assistance from legal and accounting professionals that would be part of a group to study the feasibility of establishing a not for profit corporation.
The not for profit corporation would be used to jump start the establishment of Central Florida CNG and Hydrogen fueling stations that would be open to the public. By establishing open to the public CNG and Hydrogen fueling stations the public would be encouraged to purchase or convert vehicles to CNG, and would allow companies like Honda to make available Hydrogen vehicles like the FCX Clarity. At present Honda is producing the FCX Clarity only in limited quantities and those vehicles will not be available anywhere in the southeastern U.S. because we have no open to the public Hydrogen fueling stations.
I am also looking for people with prior fund raising experience and volunteers that would be interested in pushing this agenda. Anyone who is interested in discussing this further is encouraged to contact me either by Pickens Plan email or forum post on the Local projects group forum “Starting a CNG fueling station”
Sounds like things are moving right along. Just so you know it is your explanation to me that I am using.
I don't believe anything will be realized if the Republicians retain power at the federal level. I will continue my work with state legislators and communicating will Senators and Congressman from Florida as I have so far recieved very good responses from both.
Please keep me updated. If there is something more I can do just let me know.
Hey I just recieved this email from Kevin Wiehle, he says he is an anyalst with the PSC and is writing after a discussion with Florida Senator Bill Posey's staff:
Mr. Tucker,
I am an analyst with the Florida Senate Committee on Communication and Public Utilities. I talked to Russ, Senator Posey’s aide, about these issues last Friday.
The proposed rule language being discussed at the PSC staff level right now is a preliminary draft. It may change significantly. It does sound like they are trying to balance all interests and create an RPS requirement that will provide an incentive for all producers of renewable energy.
Whatever the PSC ultimately does with an RPS rule will have to come to the Legislature for approval. Staff is aware of the issues you raise, and will keep them in mind during this process.
In the meantime, we are working on a report to identify issues and considerations policymakers should take into account when making any policy changes relating to electricity. This report is due on October 1, and will be released sometime after that. We will get a copy to Senator Posey’s office when it is released. You can obtain a copy online at http://www.flsenate.gov/Committees/index.cfm?Mode=Committee%20Publications&Submenu=2&Tab=committees.
Thanks for your interest and input.
Kevin
I sent the explanation on REC vs. REP to U.S. Senators Nelson and Martinez, Congressional candidate Bill Posey, Florida Senatoral candidate Kendall Moore, and Florida House candidate Wes McCarville.
I have recieved a very positive response from Bill Posey, a commitment to research further by Wes McCarville, nothing as yet from the others. From reading your post about Gov. Crist's 2nd summit, I get the feeling that the Gov. and his staff already know that REP's are the way to go. However as you pointed out in the post our utility companies are lining up against REP.
We need to get more Floridians involved now, so we can apply more pressure to our legislators before the elections. I here by extend you a formal invitation to join both the Space Coast for Pickens and the Pickens Plan for Central Florida groups. I have been reposting your explanations to me on these boards and others, it would never hurt to have the man himself there to help.
Have you seen T. boones AUTO MATIC system to send
e-mail to your rep. You type in a few key strokes and
it auto adresses the e-mail to all your reps and the GOV.
of your state based on zip code. Has a sugested draft of a letter to send. NEVER EASYER. Spread the word to click on the ACTION CENTER at the main web site.
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