Major FPL solar plan gets state approval

by Jim Saunders/The News Service of Florida, Wednesday, March 4th 2020

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. — Pointing to issues such as expanding renewable energy, state regulators Tuesday approved a $1.8 billion plan by Florida Power & Light to add 20 solar-power plants by the middle of next year.

The Florida Public Service Commission’s decision came after its staff recommended rejecting the utility’s “SolarTogether” program because of the way it is structured. The plan also drew opposition from the state Office of Public Counsel, which represents consumers in utility issues.

But commissioners said the program, which involves adding a total of 1,490 megawatts of solar capacity, will expand renewable energy and reduce the state’s reliance on fossil fuels to generate electricity. FPL had backing from Walmart, the Southern Alliance for Clean Energy and Vote Solar, after reaching an agreement with the retailer and the solar-advocacy groups last year.

“The commission approved the settlement agreement (between FPL, Walmart and the groups) because this unique solar program is in the public interest of the state of Florida and offers FPL customers the opportunity to advance renewable energy in Florida,” commission Chairman Gary Clark said in a prepared statement after the vote. “The new solar additions will serve to reduce the risk of higher fuel and emissions costs for all FPL ratepayers.”

Observation:

the current solar PV installations plus this addition of 1500 MW will be available about +/-20% of the time; all of this at the same time.   That would require to back down al other power plants in Florida.  Is this a good idea???

Does anyone have viable facts and figured backed explanation or this is merely a great political move?