Offshore drilling in Florida gains unlikely supporter

6-Oct-2009

Proposals to develop more offshore oil and gas drilling in Florida got an unlikely boost recently from one of the state's leading solar energy organizations.

According to the Florida Solar Energy Industries Association, offshore drilling in the state would have the potential to generate as much as $12 billion for the state, which has been struggling to maintain its budget in the current economic climate.

"With Florida expected to face billion-dollar budget shortfalls for at least the next three years, revenues from oil and gas drilling could help our state meet its budget needs while providing a permanent, dedicated revenue source for programs that invest in renewable energy technologies," said Bruce Kershner, executive director of the association.

The group's position made news because proposals to increase offshore drilling have generated considerable environmental concern over the years. The state of California is also among those that have been weighing new offshore drilling activity in light of the current economic constraints.

The Florida organization also said that permitting offshore drilling would help provide a bridge as the state makes a transition to cleaner energy technologies in the future.

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