Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Solar Recycling topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Committee approves AB 864 to ease recycling and reuse of solar panels sent to designated recyclers
Summary
AB 864 would let solar photovoltaic modules that federal law treats as non‑hazardous be managed as universal waste in California when transferred to designated recyclers, aligning state rules with federal exemptions and encouraging legitimate recycling and market clarity, supporters told the committee.
Assemblymember Ward presented AB 864, which would exempt certain solar photovoltaic (PV) modules from state hazardous waste regulation if they are transferred to designated recyclers and are otherwise authorized under federal law.
Ward told the committee that the rapid growth of solar deployment has created an emerging stream of panels reaching end of life and that California’s inconsistent adoption of federal recycling exemptions hampers recycling markets. "This will provide more clarity and structure for how to manage panels that are not hazardous and are headed for legitimate recycling," a supporter said.
Supporters including the Solar Energy Industries Association, recycling partners, product stewardship groups and several counties urged the committee to approve the concept; the bill tasks DTSC with developing alternative management standards and exemptions to encourage reuse and recycling and to align California with federal practice.
No lead witnesses in formal opposition spoke in committee; supporters said their goal is to reduce landfill disposal, create circular markets and provide clear rules for recyclers and commercial decommissioning firms.
The committee adopted amendments and advanced the bill to appropriations.
