Solar Research Frequently Asked Questions

Why did FPL create the Solar Research Partnership? | Is solar power a viable energy option? | How does solar power work? | What are the benefits of solar power? | Why is solar power expensive?

Why did FPL create the Solar Research Partnership?

At FPL, we are committed to providing energy at the lowest possible price. But we also realize the importance of exploring renewable options for the future. Through this partnership, we can raise the money to fund the installation of photovoltaic (PV) units in a pilot project at the Martin power plant, located near Lake Okeechobee.

Is solar power a viable energy option?

Right now, solar energy is an alternative with a lot of potential. It's environmentally friendly because it produces no emissions or noise. It's fueled by one of Florida's most abundant resources -- the sun. But while energy from the sun is virtually limitless, it's expensive to convert to usable electricity in Florida.

How does solar power work?

Photovoltaic (or PV) systems directly convert sunlight into electricity using solid-state technology. All solar power generated will feed directly into FPL's grid and then into your home. During operation, PV creates no noise because it has no movable parts, and no pollution or hazardous wastes because no fuel is burned.

What are the benefits of solar power?

The benefits of solar power are that it:

• keeps our air clean
• uses a secure and replenishable natural resource and
• reduces dependency on fossil fuels such as oil and gas.

Why is solar power expensive?

Quite simply, there is not enough demand to generate mass production pricing. While Florida is the sunshine state, we also experience lots of cloud cover, which reduces the amount of light energy available -- as compared to an arid environment like the Mojave desert. In Florida, we would need almost twice as much space and equipment to generate an equivalent amount of power as in Arizona.