Two Sunny States Approach Solar Power Differently
Florida and California are two states that are ripe for development of solar power as a viable renewable resource. These sunny states have the natural resources necessary to really make solar power a success. They also generally tend to have support for solar power development from the people who live in them. However there are some big differences that we are seeing as far as the changing acceptance of solar energy in these two states over time.
California has long had a history of being a leader in the development of renewable resource energy including the use of solar power. Many projects were launched in this state years ago and have served as a model for other states interested in exploring the use of solar power in a variety of different ways. However the people of California are shifting their views on solar power. Although there are a lot of great solar power projects that residents of the state do support, there are some projects that are creating opposition from environmentalists.
For example, there is a 4000-acre solar power project in San Bernardino County, California that is facing a lot of opposition. That is because it threatens endangered animal species and plant species due to its location. That’s the thing about California; there are people who support all types of eco-friendly actions in the state and so the benefits of solar power projects have to be weighed carefully against the costs to other eco-issues.
Florida is a case of the opposite track. Florida was slow to get on the solar power bandwagon in comparison to California. However interest in solar power projects has grown steadily in the state over time. In fact, there are some headline-making things going on in this state in terms of solar power. It is the home to one of the first United States cities that has adopted a solar incentive policy that rivals the successful solar policies in Europe. It is currently the home of the largest solar panel installation in the entire country. And there are some cutting-edge renewable energy resource projects happening here that are committed to solar power development.
California and Florida have both contributed a lot to solar power development and continue to do so today. Florida may currently be contributing more to the issue in terms of projects and advanced development of progressive research and policies. However California is dealing with longer-term issues involving the impact of solar power on the country as a whole. Both aspects are important in the conversation about solar power so both states continue to be states to watch when it comes to this renewable resource.
Sources: http://solar.coolerplanet.com/News/19462413-concerns-over-environmental-impact-of-solar-power-in-california.aspx, http://www.greentechmedia.com/articles/read/solar-research-hits-the-sunshine-state/
Publish Date: 2009-11-23 10:18:14
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