New installation capacity expected to exceed 10 GW
Florida Power & Light has announced plans to roll out what they say would be the world’s largest utility-owned solar installation. The company’s “30-by-30” plan calls for the installation of 30 million solar panels by 2030, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by 67%.
According to Utility Dive, despite being the largest electric utility in the Sunshine State, Florida Power & Light has faced criticism for its carbon-heavy energy supply. Under their “30-by-30” plan, the utility will source 40% of its electricity from a combination of solar, battery storage, and nuclear power. In addition, the company will close its lone remaining coal plant this year.
In a statement for the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy (SACE) responding to FPL’s announcement, Executive Director Dr. Stephen A. Smith expressed cautious optimism. Though lauding the project as a step in the right direction, he was quick to qualify the company’s status as a clean energy provider:
“[I]ncreasing solar power in the Sunshine State is good news for consumers and the environment. . . While this is a positive jump in solar development, it’s important to note this will not make FPL a leader in solar watts per customer based on their size in the Southeast or the country. Solar growth is exploding across our region, and we continue to support good policies and actions that maximize Florida’s tremendous solar resource potential.”
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