More than 1,000 billboards in Florida are being converted to renewable energy in an effort to boost the state’s awareness of clean power. The $12.5-million project includes the installation of 1,370 individual solar or wind power systems that will return power to the electrical grid.

The project, contracted to Lamar Advertising, will install a total of one megawatt of renewable energy generation on billboards along interstates and major thoroughfares for the greatest public exposure.

The project is funded by a $2.5-million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy and $10 million from Lamar Advertising. The project is set for completion in 2012.

Lamar Advertising also is sponsoring Renewable Florida, a Web-based clearinghouse to help Floridians find the most cost-efficient ways of maximizing renewable energy.

Over the past few years, major corporations including Coke and PG&E have been converting their billboards to clean energy.