Challenging a Misleading Solar Ballot Initiative in Florida

The constitutional amendment’s ballot summary for voters claims that it will encourage the use of rooftop solar, when, in fact it would do the opposite. Solar users could end up paying twice as much as other utility customers.

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Case Overview

Earthjustice has filed a legal brief with the Florida Supreme Court, arguing that the utility-backed “Smart Solar” amendment should be removed from the ballot because it is misleading to voters.

In its brief, Earthjustice argues that the constitutional amendment’s ballot summary for voters claims that it will encourage the use of rooftop solar, when, in fact it would do the opposite. Solar users could end up paying twice as much as other utility customers.

The legal action was filed on behalf of three citizen groups: Progress Florida, Environment Florida and the Environmental Confederation of Southwest Florida.

Rooftop solar panels on a beach house in southern Florida.
Rooftop solar panels on a beach house in southern Florida. (Tai Viinikka / CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Case Updates

Solar panels on the roof of the Orlando Science Center.
November 10, 2016 Article

The Sunshine State’s Election Day Bright Spot

Our work to accelerate the transition to a cleaner energy economy and to stave off the worst effects of climate change will continue to be filled with challenges in the days ahead. Earthjustice is standing alongside you to beat back the worst proposals that would dismantle the rise of clean energy. We will defend and advance all of our hard-fought gains.

Florida International University Solar House at Engineering Campus.
November 8, 2016 Press Release

Earthjustice Statement on the Defeat of Florida’s Deceptive Solar Amendment

Amendment 1 aimed to derail rooftop solar in Florida

Representatives of FL SUN and A1A Solar Contracting, Inc.
October 21, 2016 Article

Dirty Energy Interests Are Blatantly Trying to Fool Pro-Solar Voters

Deceptive tricks are afoot in Florida. If they succeed there, we all better watch out.