Solar energy system consumers in the Sunshine State soon might see progress on the state rebates they filed for when purchasing the systems, according to published reports.

The Florida legislature on Tuesday voted to receive $31 million in federal stimulus money that was earmarked for consumers of solar panels and energy efficient air conditioning. Consumers will not receive the full amount intended via Florida's two state rebate programs. But those who filed the paperwork in time will see some recompense.

"This is not the fix that we want to have," Alan Williams, D-Tallahassee told the Fort Lauderdale Sun Sentinel. He said the amount that will be paid will hold over consumers through March, when lawmakers are scheduled to begin a regular legislative session and begin considering full rebates.

Before expiring on June 30, the Florida Solar Rebate Program drew about 13,000 home and business owners who now sit on the waiting list. The stimulus money available to them totals $29 million.

"Nobody knows how many [rebates] have been approved," Sen. Mike Bennett, R-Bradenton told the newspaper.