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January 28, 2022

Solar Energy is Powering Your Community

FPL SolarNow

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Look up! Over 90 million miles away, you can see one of the world’s most valuable renewable energy sources: the sun.

For more than a decade, FPL has been dedicated to leading the expansion of solar energy in Florida – all part of a commitment to power a cleaner tomorrow. By educating the public and the next generation about the power of the sun, we are shining a light on the many ways solar energy is beneficial to the environment and the community.

From the Solar Fields…

Across Florida, we’re harvesting electricity. If you drive across the state, you can see our solar fields blossoming on the side of the road. These large-scale solar energy centers are already powering tens of thousands of homes in the Sunshine State, and they will continue to grow.

FPL is committed to installing more than 30 million solar panels by 2030 as part of its ‘30 by 30’ plan. In fact, we are currently five years ahead of schedule! Today, there are more than 40 solar energy centers across the state generating clean energy that benefits everyone.

Why solar? Well, fortunately for us, the sun will never stop generating radiant light and heat that can be converted into energy – it’s the ultimate renewable energy source. Plus, these large-scale solar centers are expected to save customers billions of dollars in fuel costs while creating thousands of jobs during construction. To support the demand for jobs in the fast-growing solar industry, we’ve partnered with organizations, like Student ACES in Palm Beach County, to facilitate programs that guarantee young individuals entry-level positions in the field.

However, solar energy is hard to see up close since solar panels are usually far away from highly populated areas. That’s where FPL SolarNow comes in.

…to your Neighborhood

Solar trees have been “growing” in Florida since 2018. Since then, they have been “planted” in zoos, parks and museums across the state as part of the FPL SolarNow program. Over 70+ locations have been transformed into outdoor living classrooms where you can come face-to-face with renewable energy right in your hometown. It’s all part of a goal to educate and spread awareness about the benefits of solar energy.

Just like their real-life counterparts, solar trees create shade on a hot day, but instead of giving us oxygen and storing carbon, they soak up the sun’s rays. Solar trees can generate up to 3 kilowatts of solar energy – enough to power an electric vehicle 15,000 miles a year.

You can also find larger solar canopy installations that create shade to cover parking lots or benches. These powerful structures that protect your ride from the harsh sun can be seen at Palm Beach Zoo & Conservation Society, Naples Zoo, Palmetto Estuary Preserve and many more.

Check out a location near you today to learn more. You may even meet our virtual “talking” solar tree, who can teach you all about how solar panels work, and their role in generating energy to send power to homes, businesses and schools.

An EVolution is Happening

On your journey to visit our solar trees and canopies, you can also charge your electric vehicle (EV) along the way. EVs are gaining popularity, and it’s estimated that by 2025 one in four cars sold will be electric. In fact, Florida currently ranks second in the nation for EV registrations.

Now, the FPL EVolution  program is increasing the availability of universal EV charging ports in Florida by 50% and making it easier to drive electric. With an 800+ mile stretch of fast charging stations strategically located from coast to coast, drivers will be able plug in every 50 miles along Florida’s highways. In South Florida, the FPL EVolution program recently added 20 charging locations, including fast chargers at the Pompano Beach Service Plaza on Florida’s Turnpike. More locations are scheduled to open in the near future.

The charging points are even available at FPL SolarNow locations, including the Brevard Zoo and Babcock Ranch. Find a charging port near you by downloading the FPL EVolution app, available for iOS and Android devices, so you can charge up during your quest to see solar energy in action.

Creating Change for a Better Tomorrow

You can make a difference, too! By enrolling in the FPL SolarNow program, you can have a direct impact on helping us move toward a cleaner energy future. To our 55,000 participants, we thank you for the continued support. Your contribution is ensuring the maintenance of these solar projects across the state while keeping Florida beautiful.

Together, we’re planting the seeds for a bright future.