Nov. 4--The Public Service Commission can show its "new management" mettle by establishing new energy efficiency standards. The current standards used by the utilities under the PSC's supervision are far too inadequate and are an impediment to establishing a "green economy."

The PSC staff wants utilities to curb consumer energy usage by a miniscule 1.2 percent over the next 10 years, a target that is embarrassingly small. Florida must expect a lot better from itself and its regulators, especially if it has any hopes of becoming a player in green technology and investment. Twenty-five states have approved more aggressive goals, some up to 20 times more than the PSC staff recommendation -- and that alone should shame the "Sunshine State."

The staff recommendation flies in the face of a major initiative approved by the Florida Legislature and signed into law by Gov. Charlie Crist, which requires the commission to adopt efficiency goals that encourage lower energy use. To date, the utilities, and apparently some in the PSC, haven't received the memo.

Officials at Florida Power & Light Co., which has sought an even lower standard than the tiny one proposed by the PSC staff, already have gone on record saying that any significant increase over their number could trigger rate hikes. A drop in sales, FPL says, means less money to offset operating costs. FPL already has image problems with some of its customers. Imagine trying to sell them on the notion that energy conservation only results in higher electric bills.

Every five years, the PSC must set new energy standards, a procedure that has gained favor with the public and its elected officials, if not the power companies. The requirement should spur the use of more efficient forms of energy use, ranging from double-pane windows to solar water heaters -- but it can't work if the expectations are so meager.

If there's any state that should embrace conservation, it's Florida. The PSC can show it's onboard by approving stronger standards. Energy efficiency is just one tool in the toolbox, but it's an important one in setting expectations and goals nevertheless.

BOTTOM LINE: Stronger energy conservation standards needed.

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