Governor Bush recently signed the 2006 Energy Act which has provided economic incentives to promote conservation, efficiency, and diversification of our energy supply.

"A reliable, cost-efficient supply of energy is critical to Florida's continued prosperity." said Governor Bush. "Through diversity and conservation efforts, we can reduce our dependence on imported oil, spur economic growth and ensure that a balanced mix of fuel sources and technologies are readily available for years to come."

Recent hurricanes demonstrated Florida's vulnerability to fuel supply disruptions. Currently, school districts and state universities are facing a 34 percent increase in the cost of fuel and small businesses are facing up to a 30 percent increase in energy costs.

Population and prosperity are increasing the demand for power and transportation fuel. The demand for motor vehicle transportation fuel is expected to grow from 28 million gallons per day to more then 32 million gallons per day with Florida depending almost exclusively on other states and nations for supplies of oil and gasoline.