Commissioner Katy Sorenson (Center) and Bill Moriarty (Left) of the Miami-Dade Community Action Agency Conservation/Weatherization Program discuss the benefits of a solar water heater installed at the Leisure City home of David Sorge (Right). Other District 8 residents who were selected to receive the solar-powered devices also turned out to get a first-hand look at this technology and to chat with the Commissioner. Commissioner Sorenson funded these installations in 14 low-income homes.(Miami-Dade / Ryan Holloway)

A solar panel to catch the energy rays from the sun is seen from the rooftop of the home of a Leisure City resident. This is one of 14 solar water heater components installed in the homes of low-income residents made possible by funding from Commissioner Katy Sorenson’s office.(Miami-Dade / Ryan Holloway)

“We need to look toward the future at what will help our County achieve sustainable growth.  Switching to renewable and cost-efficient energy sources like the sun will help us meet that goal,” said Commissioner Sorenson.

The solar water heaters can reduce homeowners’ water heating bills by as much as 50-80%.  After air conditioning, it is the greatest part of electricity bills for most people.

To attract solar energy companies to the county, Commissioner Sorenson has sponsored a package of job-creation incentives, “fast-track” alternatives for sustainable “green” developments, and a resolution passed by the Board of County Commissioners declaring “sustainable development” as policy for new government construction.  She is also working with colleges and universities to establish programs that will make Miami-Dade a research and training hub for the solar energy industry.