Florida Governor Signs Executive Order Hat Trick

Florida Governor Charlie Crist (R) recently signed three comprehensive and far-ranging executive orders (EOs) that aggressively expand the state’s energy policy and seek to immediately reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Crist also signed partnership agreements with Germany and the United Kingdom establishing climate friendly commerce, technology and policy arrangements.

The first order (EO 07-126, Leadership by Example: Immediate Actions to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Florida State Government) sets immediate GHG emission reduction goals for state agencies, including a 10 percent reduction by 2012, a 25 percent by 2017, and 40 percent by 2025. To meet these goals, Crist has asked all state facilities to inventory GHG levels and develop a statewide government carbon scorecard. In addition, the order stipulates LEED green building standards for new and existing structures, and institutes tougher standards for procurement of vehicle fleets and equipment.

The governor’s second order (EO 07-127, Immediate Actions to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions within Florida) requires the state’s electric utilities to reduce GHG emissions to 2000 levels by 2017, to 1990 levels by 2025, and to 80 percent of 1990 levels by 2050. The state also will adopt California’s vehicle emissions standards as well as establish an idle reduction standard for diesel engines. Florida also will require new buildings and consumer appliances to increase energy efficiency by 15 percent by 2009. Crist also asked the Public Service Commission to establish a 20 percent Renewable Portfolio Standard.

Finally, a third executive order (EO 07-128, Florida Governor’s Action Team on Energy and Climate Change) creates a new Action Team on Energy and Climate Change. This team is charged with developing a comprehensive action plan for the state’s energy resources and continuing to expand upon the scope of the executive orders.