Orlando, FL (April 23, 2008) – Today, the City of Orlando, with Orange County Government and Orlando Utilities Commission (OUC), announced that it has been selected as one of 12 Solar American Cities by the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) and will receive a grant of $200,000 for two years to increase the use of solar technology and the amount of renewable energy.

The City will partner with Orange County Government and OUC to develop a strategic energy plan with a focus on implementing solar energy and other sustainable growth strategies to mainstream solar energy and implement multiple projects in the next two years.

The City of Orlando is the primary grant applicant, while OUC will serve as program manager and Orange County as an alliance partner. This grant is another product of the Green Partnership Pledge the City of Orlando, Orange County and OUC signed in October 2007 when they promised to work together to provide a cleaner, greener and more secure energy future for the Central Florida community and generations to come.

"I urge every citizen, municipal government and business to create a carbon emission inventory and develop a plan to reduce them. It is time for all of us to consider how we can scale back our energy use and create more renewable energy. Employing more renewable energy will strengthen our community, create jobs and improve our environment," stated Mayor Crotty.
 
The strategic energy plan will include a solar site survey and analysis to identify the region's solar opportunities.  This will be followed by a series of collaborative sessions with key community leaders to develop a list of solar policies and priorities to assist Metro Orlando in meeting its aggressive solar installation goals.  The sessions will feature subject matter experts who will provide insight into integrating solar technologies within key sectors such as multi-family housing, new residential buildings and public buildings.  The project also will include development and implementation of solar education programs targeting groups who are integral to the successful development of a sustainable solar technology base in Metro Orlando.  The final outcome of the project will be a master solar plan that will lay the foundation for a viable solar market and provide a model to growing renewable energy throughout the entire state of Florida.

In addition to funding, the DOE will provide technical assistance to help integrate solar technologies into energy planning, zoning and facilities; streamline local regulations and practices that affect solar adoption by residents and businesses; present solar financing options; and promote solar technology among residents and local businesses through assistance with the expansion of outreach and curriculum development efforts.

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