A new report says Florida could get more than 25 percent of its power from renewable energy sources by 2020.
That would beat the goal of 20 percent set by Gov. Charlie Crist, but meeting the goal will be a challenge.
Solar and biomass currently offer the greatest potential in Florida, according to the report from Navigant Consulting.
Wednesday the company presented its findings to the Florida Public Service Commission, which is developing a renewable energy rule that will set goals for the state’s five investor-owned utilities.
The governor has made renewable energy a key part of his climate change policy. It’s designed to reduce carbon dioxide emissions.
The study concludes solar energy has the greatest potential in Florida, but biomass is currently the state’s biggest renewable energy source including municipal solid waste, agriculture and wood byproducts.
The study will help regulators evaluate the amount of renewable energy in Florida and how much it will cost to develop.
PSC Chairman Matthew Carter says he wants Florida to be a leader in renewable energy.
The study concludes offshore wind has a significant potential but it’s costly and not expected to be very well developed before 2020. Florida has limited areas suitable for onshore wind power. Ocean currents also can produce renewable energy.
The commission will vote January 9. The rule then will go to the Legislature for approval.
