Watch CBS News

Florida Voters May Have To Decide Between 2 Solar Energy Amendments

Follow CBSMIAMI.COM: Facebook | Twitter

TALLAHASSEE (CBSMiami/AP) – Voters in the Sunshine State may have to choose between two rival proposals dealing with solar energy.

On Wednesday, Consumers for Smart Solar announced that it's launching a petition drive to place an amendment dealing with solar energy on the 2016 ballot. The petition will need to collect nearly 700,000 signatures.

This amendment is aimed at trying to stop another proposal dealing with solar power.

Floridians for Solar Choice has collected nearly 100,000 signatures for its proposal to prevent the state from regulating small, private solar companies that provide up to two megawatts of solar energy to properties that border them.

Backers say electric utilities have used their political clout to block proposals that would allow solar energy to grow.

Those aligned with Consumers for Smart Solar contend this amendment would shield solar energy providers from consumer protection regulations.

(TM and © Copyright 2015 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2013 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.