A controversial push by Florida utilities to raise consumer rates to recoup the cost of renewable energy projects suddenly lost power in the final hours of the 2010 Legislature.

The Legislature moved closer Tuesday to giving Florida’s largest investor-owned utilities the power to raise rates as they gain ground in the state’s renewable-energy sector.

Despite fears of imposing a new fee upon Florida taxpayers and putting smaller energy producers at a disadvantage, the House voted 83-34 to give the utilities the power to raise rates to fund renewable-energy projects.

A wealth of opportunity is knocking on Florida’s door. But over the past several legislative sessions, and again this week, our policymakers have not answered the call.

Will this week's special legislative session bring responsible public policy debate or crass political posturing?

U.S. Senate candidate Jeff Greene assured a small group of Leon County residents Monday that, if elected this fall, he would fight for education reform and funding, and job creation. 

Hoping to push lawmakers into a cleaner, renewable future, a new business group announced Thursday that it will convene a Florida Energy Summit July 8 in Orlando.

Citizens for Clean Energy -- a coalition of businesses, educational institutions and community groups -- will host the conference at the Orlando World Center Marriott. State Senate President-designate Mike Haridopolos will moderate discussions on clean energy and future energy policy.

Prospects for a special legislative session beginning Monday faded into the sunset Wednesday when Gov. Charlie Crist said he would not call for one next week.

Crist told the Miami Herald Editorial Board he still wants lawmakers to consider placing a constitutional ban on drilling on the Nov. 2 ballot, but also wants them to pass public corruption legislation.