In Summary:
Energy Innovation modeled the effects of the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” EPA rule repeals and new restrictions on renewable energy permits. Its analysis projects higher household energy costs and estimates Florida’s economy would lose $3.7 billion and 23,000 jobs by 2030. The report also anticipates less solar generation and battery storage development, along with increased pollution-related health costs.
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A new analysis found federal energy policies will cost Florida families hundreds of dollars a year and slow the state's economy.
Related: Environmental groups challenge federal order keeping Orlando coal plant open.
The nonpartisan think tank Energy Innovation modeled the effects of the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," EPA rule repeals, and new limits on renewable energy permits.
Robbie Orvis, senior director for modeling and analysis for Energy Innovation, said Florida's affordability crisis will get worse.
"People in Florida are facing an affordability crisis in their utility bills, at the gas pump, and with growing healthcare costs. The policies put in place by this administration and Congress will make all three of these far worse," Orvis contended.
The report showed Florida households will pay an additional $630 a year for energy by 2035, rising to $710 by 2040. Gasoline prices are projected to rise by 88 cents, while natural gas and electricity rates are projected to rise 13% and 11%, respectively. The findings come as Florida has moved in a different direction, banning local net-zero policies and continuing to rely heavily on natural gas.
Orvis stressed that burning more fossil fuels will increase pollution and harm public health.
"Burning more fossil fuels also dramatically increases air pollution, making people sicker and causing premature death. And in Florida, that's expected to cost about $1.3 billion over the next 15 years," Orvis reported.
The report projected Florida's economy will lose $3.7 billion and 23,000 jobs by 2030. The state is anticipated to add far less clean energy, with 13 gigawatts less solar and 6 gigawatts less battery storage by 2040.
