The proposed bill seeks to establish ambitious renewable energy goals for Florida, amending various sections of the Florida Statutes to facilitate this transition. Key amendments include revised definitions for "biomass" and "renewable energy" in section 366.91, and a prohibition on the drilling, exploration, or production of oil, gas, or other petroleum products in section 377.24. The bill mandates that by 2050, all electricity in the state must come from renewable sources, aiming for net zero carbon emissions by 2051. The Office of Energy is designated to develop a statewide plan to achieve these objectives, which will include interim targets for carbon emissions reduction and a shift away from fossil fuels.

Additionally, the bill establishes the Renewable Energy Workforce Development Advisory Committee, which will focus on workforce needs related to the transition to renewable energy. This committee, consisting of 13 members appointed by the Commissioner of Agriculture, will work on creating a "displaced energy workers bill of rights" and a clean jobs training program. It will also develop an energy transition navigators program in collaboration with the Department of Education to support outreach and recruitment for equity-focused populations, particularly those from environmental justice communities and displaced workers. By January 1, 2025, the committee is required to set specific targets for employment in the renewable energy sector by 2028 and will report its findings and recommendations annually to state leadership, with the act taking effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
H 621 Filed: 377.242, 377.803