Florida TaxWatch conducted a survey of 800 likely Florida voters between Nov. 3 and 4 and found that more than 70 percent supported renewable energy development in the state. Though a conservative organization, Florida TaxWatch has supported renewable energy and particularly solar energy development in the state as a way to increase jobs and promote energy independence, among other things.

“It’s great that it’s coming from a conservative source,” said Craig Williams, executive director of the Florida Renewable Energy Association. “They’ve also previously egged the legislature on. It’s very heartening to know that they’re continuing with that policy.”

Among renewable energy sources, solar was found the most favorable energy source, with 87 percent of respondents having a favorable opinion of solar. Wind was next, with a 78 percent favorable opinion.

Indeed, in a report published earlier this year, the organization said, “The bad news is that Florida is even behind Oregon in terms of producing electricity from solar energy; the good news is we could reverse the trend.”

The poll found that voters look to renewable not only as energy supply, but for job supply.

“Voters believe that investing in renewable energy is a big win for Florida and its residents. This starts with job creation. Florida voters see a tremendous value for the state and country by increasing production of renewable energy,” the November poll stated.

“Fully 69 percent of Republicans, 73 percent of Democrats, and a whopping 79 percent of Independents are willing to pay more for renewable energy,” the poll found. “To help usher along renewable power production in the state, a clear majority of voters (70 percent) are willing to pay a little more on their utility bill each month.”

Of those who supported additional fees to support renewable power, 36 percent would be willing to pay $3 or more, 14 percent $2 and 20 percent $1 per month, according to the survey.

Despite the overwhelming support for solar and other renewables in Florida, the legislature has dragged its toes, Williams said.

“The legislature’s gone in almost in the opposite direction,” Williams said. “It’s a travesty of poor leadership in Florida. We’ve got gerrymandered districts that keep putting the same people back in there.”

But Williams sees potential in the future.

“We’re hopeful that the new Governor and legislature will see that all of Florida is expecting them to move on that front,” he said.

Image courtesy of NREL.