Solar Energy in Florida

I wrote my state congress critters and the gov' about the need to remove the stop signs and red-tape some home owners associations have erected about putting solar panels on roofs. Here is the only response I've received so far:

Dear Mr. Frost:

Thank you for writing Governor Jeb Bush concerning the use of Solar Energy Systems in your community.  The Governor appreciates hearing your comments and asked that I respond on his behalf.

As a leader in adopting clean, next generation energy technologies, Florida is taking a proactive approach toward energy source diversity and increasing energy efficiency. Governor Bush recently signed a $100 million four year statewide energy strategy to promote conservation and provide financial incentives to ensure a sustainable supply of energy for Florida. The Solar Energy System Incentive Program is a crucial part of the new energy policy and received $2.5 million for Fiscal Year 2006-07. I am pleased by your interest in solar energy and I encourage you to educate your homeowner’s association on the economic and environmental benefits of this cutting edge technology.  Information on improvements in solar panel design that reduce the visual impacts and other important information can be obtained by contacting the Florida Solar Energy Center. I applaud your desire to incorporate alternative energy sources into your community and hope you can reach a local agreement on the expanded use of solar technology.

Governor Bush remains committed to the expansion of alternative energy programs and appreciates your efforts in promoting energy efficiency in Florida through the use of solar power.

Please feel free to write the next governor to ensure he considers your remarks along with those from many others as he develops his legislative agenda for the next legislative session.  You may also want to share your comments with the members of your local legislative delegation.

Thank you again for taking the time to express your concerns.

Sincerely,
Monica C. Greer
Policy Coordinator
Environmental Policy Unit
Office of Policy and Budget
Executive Office of the Governor

Well, that's better than a no.