FL H1119

Local governments may establish energy zones within their boundaries where any renewable energy producer can sell electricity directly to new customers at mutually agreed prices.

All renewable energy sold in zones must be produced and used within zone boundaries or net metered into the serving utility's grid at established renewable energy rates.

Utilities must offer a disconnectable rate structure for services to producers and customers in energy zones; producers pay 1.5 cents per kilowatt hour unless on a disconnectable rate structure, which waives this fee.

The Public Service Commission must adopt rules governing energy zone sales, including interconnection requirements, rate-setting mechanisms ensuring no subsidy to general ratepayers, and notice requirements for renewable energy facilities.

Producers and sellers of renewable energy operating under this section are exempt from Public Service Commission economic regulation; the commission must report to the Legislature beginning January 1, 2012, at least every 6 months on program activity and effects.