Despite Widespread Opposition, Judge Allows South Florida Fracked Gas Plant to Move Forward

DANIA BEACH, FLA. -- Despite acknowledging the severe climate threat posed by burning fossil fuels, an administrative law judge recommended today to allow FPL to expand its fracked gas-burning operations in Dania Beach. Next, Gov. Rick Scott and his cabinet, sitting as the Power Plant Siting Board, will decide whether to approve or deny FPL’s planned expansion.

Judge Cathy M. Sellers’s recommended order acknowledges that “the competent, persuasive evidence establishes that climate change is occurring, that it is primarily caused by [greenhouse gas] emissions, and that every ton of [greenhouse gases] emitted into the atmosphere contributes to climate change." Further, Sellers held that “[d]ue to its low elevation, southeast Florida is particularly vulnerable to sea level rise."

Nonetheless, her recommended order advances the proposed 1,200 MW fracked gas plant one step further in the state review process, so that the plant will now come before Gov. Scott and his cabinet on Sept. 11.

The Sierra Club is challenging the plant on behalf of the communities that will bear the brunt of the negative environmental, economic, and health effects of burning fracked gas in South Florida for 40 more years. In addition to contributing to the climate change that accelerates sea level rise and hurricanes, fracked gas has also been linked to breathing problems, premature births, and cancer.

In response, Dania Beach resident Steven Jones released the following statement:

“Today’s decision is another example of why we must give more power to the people, not the polluters. We know climate change is real, we know it’s caused by greenhouse gases, and yet, FPL still wants to expand the burning of gas in South Florida. Our communities are already experiencing flooding, stronger hurricanes, and other negative effects of climate change, so we know what’s at stake and will keep fighting this dirty and dangerous plant.”

Sierra Club Florida Chapter Director Frank Jackalone said:

"Fracked gas is a dirty, dangerous greenhouse gas that threatens Florida by speeding up sea level rise and making hurricanes stronger. At a time when clean, renewable energy sources like solar are abundant and affordable right here in the Sunshine State, it makes no sense to lock us into 40 more years of burning dirty gas in South Florida. We may have encountered a road block today, but the Sierra Club will use every available avenue to stand up for our climate and communities against FPL’s desire to put profits over people.”