Governor Crist’s office announced today the award of $10 million in American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grant funds to the Florida Solar Energy Center in Cocoa Beach.  The press release states, “The grant, known as SunSmart School and E-Shelters (Emergency Shelters) program, is a portion of the $126 million the state received in State Energy Program Funding for energy related initiatives under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  The State Energy Program provides opportunities for state agencies, local governments and businesses to deploy renewable energy and energy efficient technologies, resulting in economic development and job growth in Florida’s clean technology sector.”

The SunSmart School and E-Shelters program advances the use of renewable energy through the installation of solar energy systems.  At least 90 schools selected to serve as emergency shelters will be supported by the SunSmart School and E-Shelters program. Florida solar installers should benefit as well.

“The SunSmart School and E-Shelters program will help protect our environment for future generations,” said Governor Crist. “Educating Floridians and utilizing energy efficient technologies will strengthen our economy by increasing Florida’s energy independence and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”