Florida Voters add Solar Tax Break to State Constitution, More to Come - via the Miami Herald

Posted by: Allison Friedman // Rate It Green Admin

In the primary election on August 30th, Florida's voters overwhelmingly approved (70%!!) an amendment to the Florida Constitution which exempts solar and other renewable energy devices on business and industrial property from property taxes for 20 years. The same tax break already exists for residential property. The amendment also exempts renewable energy equipment from the state's tangible personal property tax.

The great news is that supporters of the amendment came fro so many different groups and backgrounds - different political groups, businesses, and environmental activists all came together for a clear win for business and the environment, and for a transition to a more sustainable economy.

Now, it is up to the Legislature to pass a bill in the next session in 2017 to carry out the will of the voters.

There's also a looming next battle in the surprising struggle over solar energy in the Sunshine State. In the November 8 general election, Amendment 1 if passed would prohibit the sale of solar energy to individual customers and would apparently add new regulatory barriers to solar expansion in Florida.

It is hoped that the current clear and overwhelmingly supported Amendment will make clear the will of voters and will help in the event of confusion about the November ballot question.

Utilities prevailed on state lawmakers to put Amendment 4 on the primary ballot to avoid confusing voters about their higher priority, Amendment 1.

To learn more: http://www.miamiherald.com/news/politics-government/election/article98929157.html#storylink=cpy