Governor DeSantis introduces new Resilient Florida program, investing in advanced energy technologies and climate-resilient infrastructure across the state.
TALLAHASSEE, February 2, 2021 — Today, national business group Advanced Energy Economy (AEE) applauded the provision in Governor Ron DeSantis’ proposed budget that would allocate $165 million for climate-resilient infrastructure development. The remarks come from Ebo Entsuah, principal at AEE:
"AEE is pleased that the Governor has proposed a strong investment plan to support Florida’s path to resilience with advanced energy and clean transportation. Our recent report found that investing stimulus funding across a range of advanced energy technologies in Florida would produce a four-to-one return on investment for the state’s economy.
“The proposed $165 million for the Resilient Florida Program would create new jobs, provide grants to state and local government, and fund projects that adapt regionally significant assets to the impacts of climate change. The budget also allocates $30 million for the implementation of the State Mitigation Plan, which would reduce diesel emissions and provide funds for electric buses and electric vehicle charging infrastructure. The advanced transportation industry employs over 9,000 Floridians, and with leadership like this from Gov. DeSantis and the legislature, that number will grow.
"In addition to this funding, we strongly encourage the adoption of a statewide goal for transportation electrification in the Sunshine State. We are committed to working with the Governor and the Legislature on a budget that accelerates economic recovery, grows the advanced energy industry, and gets Floridians back to work."