State owes $52.7 million in unpaid solar energy rebates - St. Petersburg Times

The rebate program kicked off in 2006, but soon lost political capital as lawmakers looked to close billion-dollar budget gaps.

Homeowners and businesses could apply for rebates ranging from $500 for a solar water heater to $100,000 for a commercial roof system.

"Do I think they should be funded? Absolutely," said Sen. Michael Bennett, R-Bradenton, who introduced renewable energy legislation in the past to mixed results. "We just don't have any money."